Tinubu, Cardinal Onaiyekan and the Need for Honest Debate on Hardship

Cardinal John Onaiyekan’s remarks on Nigeria’s economic hardship have sparked an unnecessary and acrimonious public dispute. While the Federal Government may point to policy reforms and macroeconomic indicators, ordinary Nigerians judge the economy by the rising cost of food, transport and other essentials. Their hardship should not be dismissed or denied. The President’s media aides should respond to criticism with facts, not personal attacks. If the administration believes its reforms are improving the economy or will produce long-term gains, it should clearly explain the relevant evidence and how Nigerians can expect relief. Attacking a cleric for speaking about suffering only makes the government appear insensitive. I support structural change and acknowledge that the Tinubu administration has taken difficult policy decisions that may be beneficial in the long run. But supporting reforms does not require anyone to pretend that people are not struggling. The honest approach is to recognise the pain, explain the purpose of the reforms and show how they will lead to better conditions. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria and Cardinal Onaiyekan have criticised successive governments over the plight of Nigerians. They did so under past administrations and are doing so now. People may disagree with the Cardinal, but accusing him of hatred, bias or unethical conduct is unfair. Government spokespeople should defend their principal through rational and intelligent arguments.

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