Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has criticised Cardinal John Onaiyekan for granting a television interview about the private meeting between President Tinubu and members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.
In a lengthy statement, Bwala described the interview as inappropriate, arguing that discussions held during a private audience with the president should have remained confidential.
According to him, the bishops were invited to present their concerns about the country’s economic, social and security situation, which they did. He said President Tinubu listened patiently and responded to each issue raised.
Bwala noted that the bishops acknowledged the positive impact of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) but were largely critical of other government policies. He argued that while the church has every right to express its views, its assessment should not be treated as unquestionable.
He explained that President Tinubu challenged some of the bishops’ claims by pointing to improvements recorded under his administration, particularly in the economy and security. On the issue of returning mission schools to their original owners, Bwala said the president reminded the bishops that education is largely under the control of state governments and recalled that he returned mission schools while serving as governor of Lagos State.
Bwala maintained that although Nigeria still faces serious challenges, the country has made progress and is gradually recovering from the economic difficulties inherited by the current administration.
He also defended the government’s economic reforms, saying they helped restore financial stability in many states, allowing several governors to resume regular payment of salaries and pensions after years of delays.
On security, Bwala said President Tinubu acknowledged the country’s challenges but also highlighted successes recorded by the armed forces. He argued that, as Commander-in-Chief, the president has access to intelligence reports and operational briefings unavailable to the general public.
Bwala rejected the suggestion that only critics tell the president the truth, insisting that Tinubu stays informed through newspapers, television programmes, intelligence reports and discussions with trusted associates across the country.
He added that while the Catholic bishops were entitled to raise their concerns, President Tinubu equally had the right to respond with facts and his own assessment of the situation.
Bwala concluded that the meeting reflected healthy democratic engagement but insisted it was wrong for Cardinal Onaiyekan to publicly disclose his version of what was discussed. He said religious leaders should exercise restraint and preserve the confidentiality of privileged meetings with public officials.
