PAUL JATAU
Democracy flourishes when citizens and institutions are free to speak truth to power without fear of intimidation or ridicule. Religious bodies, professional associations, civil society organisations and the media all have legitimate roles in holding governments accountable.
Attempts to silence or discredit them simply because they express uncomfortable truths do a disservice to democratic governance and weaken the culture of constructive engagement.
The recent remarks by Presidential Adviser, Daniel Bwala, directed at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) following its engagement with President Tinubu were, therefore, unnecessary and unfortunate.
The bishops neither exceeded their mandate nor ventured into partisan politics. They simply discharged a moral responsibility that has long defined the Church’s public witness, speaking on issues that affect the welfare, dignity and future of Nigerians.
The Catholic bishops deserve commendation, not condemnation, for presenting to the President the concerns shared daily by millions of citizens. Their observations on worsening economic hardship, insecurity, the rising cost of living, youth unemployment and growing despair across the country were neither inflammatory nor politically motivated.
They reflected the realities confronting ordinary Nigerians and echoed concerns already expressed by labour unions, economists, business leaders, civil society groups and many other patriotic voices.
It is, therefore, not surprising that the Northern Christian Association and other well-meaning Nigerians rallied behind the bishops.
They recognised that the bishops spoke not merely for Catholics but for countless Nigerians who continue to bear the burden of difficult economic conditions. When respected religious leaders raise issues affecting the common good, they should be seen as partners in nation-building rather than adversaries of government.
Value of constructive criticism
History shows that governments benefit more from honest criticism than from unending praise. Constructive criticism often identifies weaknesses before they develop into full-blown national crises.
Wise leaders understand that disagreement is not an act of hostility but an opportunity for reflection, correction and improved governance. Democracies thrive when governments listen to diverse perspectives instead of dismissing them.
Those entrusted with speaking on behalf of the Presidency must, therefore, exercise greater restraint and wisdom. Every public statement by a presidential adviser carries the authority and prestige of the office and inevitably reflects on the administration itself.
Political cheap- point-scoring may excite partisan audiences. But it does little to inspire public confidence or promote national cohesion.
No doubt,
President Tinubu’s administration is confronted with daunting challenges: persistent insecurity, soaring inflation, unemployment, economic hardship and declining public trust in state institutions.
Therefore, Nigerians expect presidential advisers to devote their energies to explaining government policies, providing clarity where confusion exists, engaging citizens respectfully and reassuring the public that the government remains attentive to their concerns.
Public spats with respected national institutions distract from these important responsibilities.
Why dialogue matters
Bwala has, undoubtedly, shown that he is not a skilled communicator. If he were, he would have demonstrated greater maturity in his public interventions. Effective communication is not measured by the sharpness of one’s attacks on critics, but by the ability to explain government policies persuasively, acknowledge genuine public concerns and foster meaningful national dialogue.
The Catholic bishops neither require government approval to speak nor should they be discouraged from exercising their constitutional and moral responsibility. Like journalists, academics, labour leaders and civil society organisations, they have every right and, indeed, a duty to contribute to national conversations on governance, justice and the welfare of citizens.
For decades, the Catholic Church in Nigeria has consistently spoken against corruption, injustice, insecurity and bad governance, regardless of which political party occupies power. Its interventions have earned respect because they are rooted in moral conviction rather than partisan interest.
Ultimately and naturally, public office is temporary. But character and reputation endure.
Thus, history judges public officials not only by the policies they defend but also by the dignity, humility and wisdom with which they conduct themselves.
Daniel Bwala would serve both the Presidency and the nation better by embracing thoughtful engagement instead of needless confrontation.
Our country’s pressing challenges demand dialogue, mutual respect and collaboration among government, religious institutions and civil society, not divisive rhetoric that widens existing fault lines.
At a time when Nigerians yearn for hope and responsive leadership, the Presidency should welcome sincere counsel from respected institutions such as the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria. Listening to voices of conscience is not a sign of weakness. It is a hallmark of confident and responsible leadership. The bishops have fulfilled their duty.
The government should respond with openness, respect and action rather than defensiveness.
That is the path that strengthens democracy and restores public trust in government.