— Group says clerics echoed pains of millions of Nigerians
— Backs Obi-Kwankwaso ticket for 2027
By Steve Oko
UMUAHIA — The South-East chapter of the Kwankwaso National Network (KNN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to engage Catholic bishops in constructive dialogue instead of responding to their criticism of his administration with verbal attacks.
The group also called on Nigerians not to lose hope, saying a proposed Peter Obi-Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joint ticket in the 2027 presidential election could provide an alternative to the current political order.
In a statement signed by its Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpa Iro Ukpai, the KNN said the Catholic bishops had expressed concerns shared by many Nigerians over economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining purchasing power.
The group urged the Presidency to address the issues raised by the clerics rather than focus on the persons delivering the message.
It said the bishops were not political opponents of the administration but religious leaders and citizens with a responsibility to speak on matters affecting the welfare and future of Nigerians.
“President Tinubu should listen to the message, not attack the messenger,” the group said.
According to KNN, democratic governance requires openness to criticism and opposing views, particularly when such concerns reflect the experiences of citizens.
It urged the Presidency to respond to the bishops’ concerns through engagement, clarification and appropriate policy measures.
The group also appealed to the President to encourage his aides and supporters to refrain from personal attacks against religious leaders and other Nigerians expressing concerns about governance.
KNN called on the Presidency to invite the bishops to a constructive dialogue and consider the issues raised during such engagement.
“The Bishops have done the nation a service by speaking when others may be afraid to speak. They spoke not merely for themselves, but echoed the anxieties of millions of Nigerians who are feeling the weight of the country’s present economic and social challenges,” the group stated.
The South-East KNN maintained that government should remain responsive to the concerns, fears and aspirations of citizens.
It called for less political rhetoric and greater focus on policies capable of improving the living conditions of Nigerians.
On the 2027 election, the group expressed support for a possible Peter Obi-Kwankwaso political partnership, describing it as an opportunity for Nigerians to consider an alternative leadership direction.
KNN said such a partnership could promote a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one focused more on production and economic opportunities.
It also urged Nigerians to participate actively in the electoral process, reject electoral manipulation and prioritise competence and integrity when choosing leaders.
The group cautioned voters against exchanging their votes for temporary material benefits, saying such incentives could not address the long-term challenges facing citizens.
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