Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has described Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, as the “Desmond Tutu of Nigeria,” urging him to disregard attacks against him and continue speaking truth to power.
George, the Atona Oodua of Yorubaland, made the call while reacting to criticism directed at Onaiyekan some government officials and aides to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the cleric’s comments on the state of the nation.
He urged the cardinal to draw inspiration from the late South African Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who was known for speaking out against injustice and apartheid despite facing pressure and criticism.
The PDP chieftain also criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his comment against the cleric.
“One government official said Onaiyekan was only speaking for Catholics, as if other Christians, even Muslims and atheists, are not affected by the anti-people policies of this administration.
“Another official said Onaiyekan is working for the opposition. Haba!”
George argued that issues affecting the country should not be reduced to religious or partisan considerations, stressing that clerics and citizens alike have a responsibility to speak when they perceive injustice or hardship in society.
According to him, attempts to intimidate outspoken religious leaders would not stop Nigerians from demanding accountability from those in authority.
George also drew a biblical parallel with the trial of Jesus Christ, saying the attacks against Onaiyekan reminded him of the decision by the crowd to demand the release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus.
“So, if some people are abusing Onaiyekan today, they are behaving like those who loved Barabbas,” he said.
The former PDP chieftain urged Onaiyekan to remain steadfast and continue advising the government on policies capable of improving the country.
“I urge the Cardinal to continue to hold the faith and speak the truth without any fear. He should keep advising the government on what to do to make Nigeria great,” he said.
George further appealed to politicians and government officials to respect the age and status of the cleric, noting that Onaiyekan is a cardinal and a member of the College of Cardinals involved in the election of the Pope.
“Onaiyekan is a cardinal, a member of the conclave who elects the Pope. He is over 80 years now. Anybody who wants to grow old should not attack an octogenarian who is also a cleric,” he said.
George also alleged that a person associated with the FCT minister had recently attacked him verbally, saying he considered the incident disrespectful, particularly because of his age and position.
He added: “One of those data boys who works for Wike also abused me, and my first child is older than him.
“I was told he is a Yoruba man, and he is abusing a Yoruba elder, the Atona Oodua, just because of politics. Karma is waiting for him.”