Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has thrown his weight behind Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, accusing the Presidency of resorting to personal attacks instead of addressing the substance of the cleric’s concerns about Nigeria.
In a strongly worded statement, Obi defended Cardinal Onaiyekan’s recent comments on the state of the nation, describing the respected cleric as a moral voice whose interventions were motivated by patriotism rather than politics. He argued that attempts to discredit the Cardinal amounted to an attack on truth and constructive criticism rather than a genuine response to the issues he raised.
The former Anambra State governor maintained that leaders should embrace criticism in the interest of national progress instead of targeting individuals who speak out on matters affecting millions of Nigerians.
According to Obi, Cardinal Onaiyekan has consistently demonstrated integrity and commitment to national unity, adding that his comments reflected the frustrations and aspirations of ordinary Nigerians struggling with insecurity, economic hardship and declining public confidence in governance.
“The easiest way to avoid accountability is to attack the messenger instead of confronting the message,” Obi said, insisting that the Presidency should focus on responding to the issues raised rather than questioning the motives of respected national figures.
The remarks come amid growing public debate following Cardinal Onaiyekan’s criticism of the country’s socio-economic conditions and his call on the Federal Government to urgently tackle insecurity, corruption and worsening hardship facing Nigerians.
Obi stressed that democratic governance thrives when citizens, religious leaders and civil society can express their views without intimidation or attempts at character assassination. He urged political leaders to promote a culture of accountability, dialogue and respect for differing opinions.
The Presidency has yet to issue a fresh response to Obi’s latest remarks. However, it has previously rejected criticism from the former presidential candidate, insisting that the Tinubu administration remains focused on governance and national development despite repeated attacks from opposition figures.
