“The Catholic Bishops Are the Conscience of the Country… Nigeria’s Difficulties Are Not President Tinubu’s Fault”

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has said that while Nigeria is facing significant economic challenges, it would be unfair to place all the blame on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking in a video that has circulated online, the former Abia State governor acknowledged the important role of the Catholic Church in Nigeria, describing the Catholic Bishops as "the conscience of the country" for their consistent advocacy on governance, justice, and the welfare of citizens.

Kalu, however, argued that many of Nigeria's current economic and social problems predate the Tinubu administration and have accumulated over several decades. According to him, the country's challenges cannot be solved overnight and should not be attributed solely to the current president.

“The Catholic Bishops are the conscience of the country. There's difficulty in Nigeria, but it's not the fault of President Tinubu.”

The senator called on Nigerians to be patient with the government, saying the administration's reforms require time before their full impact can be felt. He also urged political leaders, religious bodies, and citizens to work together in finding lasting solutions to the country's economic difficulties.

His remarks come amid growing public debate over the state of the economy, rising inflation, the high cost of living, and recent criticism of government policies by various religious and civil society organizations. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria has repeatedly expressed concerns about insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and the economic hardship affecting millions of Nigerians.

Mixed Reactions

Kalu's comments have sparked mixed reactions across social media:

Supporters agree that Nigeria's problems are longstanding and cannot be blamed on one administration alone.

Critics argue that while many issues were inherited, the current government must still be held accountable for the outcomes of its policies and the worsening cost-of-living crisis experienced by many Nigerians.

As discussions continue, the exchange highlights the ongoing national conversation about leadership, accountability, and the best path toward economic recovery and improved living standards.