The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned religious leaders against taking partisan political positions, saying doing so could undermine their credibility and the impact of their public comments.
Wike made the remarks during his monthly media chat while reacting to comments by Cardinal John Onaiyekan on President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He stressed that while governments should welcome constructive criticism, such criticism should also acknowledge areas where an administration has performed well.
The FCT minister argued that when religious leaders are perceived to consistently support one political side or oppose another, their interventions are more likely to be viewed through a partisan lens rather than as objective guidance.
Wike further claimed that Cardinal Onaiyekan’s political preferences were well known, adding that public perception of partisanship could diminish the influence of religious leaders on national issues.
