The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged religious leaders and elder statesmen to acknowledge the achievements of government alongside offering criticism when necessary.
Wike made the statement while reacting to recent comments by the Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, regarding the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The Wike religious leaders government criticism comments came during his monthly media briefing, where the minister advised religious figures not to appear as though they are constantly opposing the government.
According to Wike, he does not oppose constructive criticism of government policies, noting that such feedback helps leaders identify areas that require improvement.
“I have always said this to religious leaders and elder statesmen that I’m not against comments about government because if comments are not made about government, it would not be able to know areas to concentrate or focus,” Wike said.
The minister, however, stated that when a religious leader is perceived to consistently support one side of a political divide, their comments may be viewed differently by the public.
Wike said he was aware of Cardinal Onaiyekan’s position on the Tinubu administration, adding that it was not a secret.
He argued that leaders should balance their remarks by recognising government achievements while also highlighting areas that require correction.
“Every time people hear you say things are bad but nobody has heard you say that the government has done this well, the point I’m trying to make is that as a leader, commend the government when it has done well in some areas, criticise the government in areas needed,” he stated.
The FCT minister added that constant criticism without acknowledging positive developments could make government officials believe that such comments are driven by opposition rather than genuine concern.
The Wike religious leaders government criticism comments come amid ongoing debates over the role of religious leaders in holding political leaders accountable while also recognising government achievements.
BACKSTORY:
Nyesom Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has often spoken about the role of public figures and institutions in political discussions.
His latest comments followed remarks by Cardinal John Onaiyekan, who has previously expressed concerns about governance issues and national challenges under different administrations.
The debate highlights a recurring issue in Nigeria’s political space: the role of religious leaders in speaking on national matters. While many Nigerians view clerics as important voices for accountability, others argue that their comments should be balanced and recognise positive steps taken by government.
Wike’s statement reflects his position that criticism is necessary for good governance but should be accompanied by acknowledgement of progress when government policies produce positive results.
