Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has thrown his weight behind the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, saying the clerics remain among the few voices willing to tell President Bola Tinubu the truth, even when politicians around him may choose to do otherwise.
Kalu said the Catholic Church’s interventions on national issues are driven by patriotism and a commitment to justice rather than partisan politics, urging the Federal Government to heed the bishops’ warnings instead of dismissing their criticisms.
“The Catholic Church has always played a vital role in speaking truth to power. Whenever the Catholic Bishops offer advice, it is not out of partisanship or political bargaining but out of a genuine concern for the well-being of the nation and its people,” he said.
According to him, the bishops’ counsel is intended to steer leaders toward justice, accountability and good governance.
Kalu said he fully supports the position of the Catholic Church, insisting that the bishops are merely reflecting the daily realities confronting millions of Nigerians.
“They are simply pointing out the realities Nigerians face every day and urging the government to address them. Rather than dismissing or attacking their views, the government should listen and reflect on the concerns they have raised,” he stated.
The senator noted that the Catholic Church has consistently maintained its tradition of speaking truth to power, irrespective of which political party controls the government.
“The Catholic Church has never shied away from speaking the truth, regardless of who is in power. Its mission is to promote peace, justice and the common good, not to serve as a cheerleader for any administration,” he added.
Kalu further argued that while political allies may sometimes shield leaders from uncomfortable realities, the Catholic bishops have remained steadfast in offering honest counsel in the national interest.
He urged public office holders to embrace constructive criticism as a tool for improving governance rather than viewing it as an attack on the administration.