Former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani has weighed in on the ongoing debate sparked by Cardinal John Onaiyekan's comments on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, stating that Catholic Bishops have a long-standing tradition of speaking truth to power and have never been partisan.
Speaking on Arise Television, Sani noted that the bishops' role in society has consistently been to offer moral guidance, irrespective of the government in power. His remarks come as public discourse intensifies over the Catholic Church's stance on the current administration.
The debate highlights the delicate relationship between religious institutions and the state in Nigeria. While some have questioned the church's involvement in political matters, Sani's comments underscore the view that the bishops' interventions are rooted in a history of moral advocacy rather than political alignment.
This is not the first time religious leaders have sparked political debate in Nigeria. The Catholic Church has often been vocal on issues of governance and social justice, a tradition that Sani argues is neither new nor partisan.
As the conversation continues, observers will be watching to see how the government responds to such critiques and whether the church's voice will influence policy direction. For now, Sani's defense of the bishops' role adds a significant perspective to the ongoing national dialogue.