KSJI urges Tinubu to stop politicizing Catholic bishops' national concerns

KSJI Nigeria appealed to President Tinubu and leaders to stop politicizing Catholic bishops' concerns after their Abuja meeting on insecurity, economic hardship, democracy and elections. In an open letter dated August 24, 2026, KSJI Strategic Communication Chairman Sir Peter Osamgbi said attributing partisan motives to CBCN's engagement undermines its role as Nigeria's moral and religious institution.

The bishops, representing Catholic Church pastoral leadership, have for years dialogued with government on peace, security, justice and governance - this meeting should be treated same. KSJI condemned the 'unfortunate' political coloration some presidential spokespersons added to the bishops' legitimate concerns about citizens' struggles amid rising insecurity and economic challenges.

KSJI stressed Presidency must distinguish dialogue from selfish motives and avoid imputing political agendas on religious institutions' national interventions. The appeal follows CBCN's visit where bishops raised these national issues directly with the Presidency.

What does this mean for Nigeria's civil society-government relations when religious voices get labeled opposition for speaking on national issues?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/24/dont-politicise-catholic-bishops-concerns-ksji-tells-tinubu/