Former Minister of Youth and Sports Solomon Dalung has questioned the significance of a claim by the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria that it comprises the “real bishops,” urging Nigerians to focus on the performance of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Dalung made the remarks in a statement shared on social media while responding to the group’s reported endorsement of President Tinubu.
He said there was nothing wrong with Christian leaders supporting a government they believed was performing well, noting that religious leaders, like other citizens, had the right to express their political convictions. However, he cautioned against turning political disagreements into a contest over which group constituted the “real” bishops.
“Cardinal Onaiyekan does not speak for every Christian in Nigeria. Neither does the Charismatic Bishops Conference. No bishop, pastor or church group owns the conscience of Nigerian Christians,” Dalung said.
The former minister urged supporters of the Tinubu administration to identify specific achievements in areas such as the economy, security, job creation, purchasing power, infrastructure and quality of life.
“If Tinubu has done well, tell Nigerians precisely what he has done well. Put the achievements on the table,” he said.
Dalung also challenged those who disagreed with Cardinal John Onaiyekan’s assessment of the country’s condition to explain where they believed the cardinal’s assessment was inaccurate. He warned against suggesting that one group of bishops was more legitimate than another simply because it supported the government, while another raised concerns about the hardship faced by Nigerians.
“A bishop should be able to praise government without becoming its defender,” Dalung said, arguing that the Church’s role in a democracy should include speaking truth to power and acknowledging progress when warranted.
He maintained that Nigerians would ultimately judge the administration based on its performance, rather than religious endorsements.
“The Nigerian people are not looking for ‘real bishops.’ They are looking for a government that works,” he said.
Dalung concluded by urging religious leaders to focus on their spiritual responsibilities, politicians to campaign, and Nigerians to allow evidence to determine whether President Tinubu deserves a second term.
