Cardinal John Onaiyekan has raised concerns about the political direction of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, alleging that the government is determined to secure victory in the 2027 general elections by deploying the full weight of state resources.
Speaking during a live television interview after a meeting between the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, the Archbishop Emeritus warned that such an approach could undermine the credibility of future elections.
According to Onaiyekan, the administration’s perceived “win at all costs” posture poses a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
He argued that while elections may appear free and fair, the extensive use of government influence could ultimately make the votes of ordinary citizens insignificant.
The cardinal also rejected the notion that “all is fair in politics,” insisting that democratic governance must be guided by fairness, accountability, and respect for constitutional limits.
The cleric also questioned the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), maintaining that public trust in the electoral body would remain weak as long as the President retains the exclusive power to appoint its leadership.
He called for constitutional reforms that would transfer the appointment process to an independent body to strengthen the credibility and neutrality of the electoral system.
Onaiyekan’s remarks followed what was described as a frank meeting between Catholic bishops and President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, during which the bishops expressed concerns over worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and the perceived risk of Nigeria evolving into a one-party state.
President Tinubu reportedly rejected the assessment, defending his administration’s economic reforms and political approach as being in the country’s best interest.
The Presidency later criticised Onaiyekan’s public comments, accusing him of disclosing discussions from a confidential meeting and arguing that the Catholic bishops do not have an exclusive claim to the truth about Nigeria’s condition.
Responding to the criticism, Onaiyekan maintained that the Catholic Church has no political ambitions, stressing that its intervention was driven by a moral responsibility to speak on behalf of Nigerians facing hardship.
He urged the President to safeguard democratic institutions and ensure a level playing field ahead of the 2027 elections.
