Peter Obi accuses Tinubu govt of war on truth, defends Catholic bishops
Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, accused the Tinubu administration of waging a 'war against truth' after criticising the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria for speaking out on Nigeria’s economic and security challenges. He defended the CBCN as the nation’s conscience, noting it has praised governments when warranted and spoken out when national interest demanded it, and said other major religious bodies also raise concerns about insecurity, poverty, inflation and unemployment. Obi warned that leaders should welcome honest criticism rather than attack those highlighting national problems, citing his own experience in Anambra where input from traditional rulers and religious leaders improved education and healthcare. He also condemned the vilification of Cardinal John Onaiyekan after the bishops’ remarks, arguing that respected religious figures should not be vilified for expressing concerns that reflect daily realities for millions of Nigerians. How should Nigerians respond when religious leaders criticise government policies—support the critique, dismiss it as partisan, or demand evidence‑based dialogue?