Tinubu Urged to Engage Catholic Bishops, Stop Vicious Attacks

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged to engage the nation's Catholic bishops in constructive dialogue following their criticism of his administration. The South-East chapter of the Kwankwaso National Network (KNN) made this call on Thursday, August 12, 2026. According to the KNN, the bishops have expressed concerns shared by many Nigerians over economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.

KNN's Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpa Iro Ukpai, said in a statement that the Catholic bishops 'have done the nation a service by speaking when others may be afraid to speak.' They spoke not merely for themselves but echoed the anxieties of millions of Nigerians who are feeling the weight of the country's present economic and social challenges. The bishops' message was one of economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.

The KNN urged the Presidency to address the issues raised by the clerics rather than focus on the persons delivering the message. It said the bishops were not political opponents of the administration but religious leaders and citizens with a responsibility to speak on matters affecting the welfare and future of Nigerians. President Tinubu should listen to the message, not attack the messenger, the group said.

And now that we know this, let's talk about what comes next. The KNN also supported a possible joint ticket with Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso for the 2027 presidential election. They think this ticket could provide an alternative to the current political order. According to the group, Nigerians should prioritize competence and integrity when choosing leaders. Voters should reject electoral manipulation and not trade their votes for temporary material benefits.

'The Bishops have done the nation a service by speaking when others may be afraid to speak,' said Dr Ukpa Iro Ukpai, KNN's Zonal Coordinator.

KNN also appealed to President Tinubu to encourage his aides and supporters to refrain from personal attacks against religious leaders and other Nigerians expressing concerns about governance. They urged the Presidency to invite the bishops to a constructive dialogue and consider the issues raised during such engagement. Nigerians shouldn't lose hope, the group said.

The KNN's call on President Tinubu to engage the Catholic bishops might seem like a straightforward request but it has far-reaching implications. It means that the administration should remain responsive to the concerns, fears, and aspirations of citizens. The group argued that government should focus on policies capable of improving the living conditions of Nigerians rather than engaging in political rhetoric.

The South-East chapter of the Kwankwaso National Network (KNN) comprises people who believe in the need for good governance. They are not politicians but people who want to see a change in the way the country is managed. Their call on President Tinubu is a genuine attempt to help him govern effectively.