Forum backs bishops' criticism of Nigeria's economy

A prominent regional group has endorsed criticism of Nigeria's economic and security conditions leveled by Catholic bishops and a senior cardinal following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, as the cleric at the center of the controversy declines to engage in a public dispute with the presidency. The Middle Belt Forum issued a statement on August 2 expressing support for Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, and the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, whose assessments have sparked a pointed exchange with government officials.

The bishops met with President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on July 28, presenting concerns over rising poverty, economic hardship, and insecurity. Following the meeting, Cardinal Onaiyekan stated in a media interview that the president appeared not to be receiving accurate information about the true condition of ordinary Nigerians. These remarks drew criticism from presidential aides, including Senior Special Assistant Temotope Ajayi, who described the cardinal's public comments as an abuse of privilege, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, who accused him of making political statements.