Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take seriously the concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria regarding the country’s worsening economic situation and the state of its democracy.
Frank warned that ignoring the bishops’ recommendations could have political consequences for the President ahead of the 2027 general election, including what he described as a possible “embarrassing defeat.”
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the former APC spokesperson praised the Catholic bishops for speaking candidly to the President about the economic hardship facing Nigerians and the need to safeguard democratic institutions.
According to Frank, the clerics demonstrated rare courage by confronting the President with what he described as the true realities affecting the country.
“We commend the Catholic leaders for their courage. We have not seen this kind of courage from religious leaders in Nigeria for a long time,” Frank said.
“They were brave enough to look the President in the face and tell him the bitter truth.”
Frank argued that religious leaders have a moral obligation to speak out against policies and developments that negatively impact citizens rather than remain silent or offer praise to those in power.
He also applauded the bishops for cautioning against actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s democratic system.
The political activist urged President Tinubu to carefully consider the recommendations made by the Catholic bishops, insisting that acting on their advice could help the administration address pressing national concerns and avert political setbacks ahead of the next election.
“The President should heed their advice. By doing so, he will save himself from embarrassment,” Frank added.
“These are true leaders, and we expect other religious bodies to follow the example set by the Catholic leaders.”
Frank further called on other religious organisations across the country to emulate the Catholic Bishops by speaking boldly on issues affecting the welfare of Nigerians and the preservation of democratic governance.
