It is ironic that the Catholic Church faces criticism whenever its bishops speak about the nation’s issues. While some people now say religious leaders should avoid politics, history shows things have often been different.
During General Sani Abacha’s military rule, the Catholic Church was not seen as an outsider. In 1998, Pope John Paul II visited Nigeria and called for the release of political detainees, respect for human rights, and a real move toward democracy. The Vatican also asked for mercy for many political prisoners. Even before this, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria regularly called for justice, dialogue, and a return to democratic government.
Back then, many pro-democracy activists, including Bola Tinubu, were fighting against military rule. While there is no clear record of Tinubu openly praising the Pope’s actions, the Church’s stance matched the goals of NADECO and the broader democracy movement. At that time, few people thought the Catholic Church should stay silent during national hardship and political oppression. This is why today’s criticism of Catholic bishops needs a closer look.
If it was fine for the Church to speak out against dictatorship, human rights abuses, and economic hardship during military rule, why should it now be wrong for the Church to talk about the problems Nigerians face today?
Religious leaders are not elected and should not try to govern. Still, they have always acted as the moral conscience of society. Their duty goes beyond the church, as they speak for the poor, the vulnerable, and those who are often ignored. This role is respected in many democracies and has helped shape important struggles for justice.
People can agree or disagree with what the bishops say. But trying to silence them just because their message is uncomfortable is not open to debate.
History shows that the Catholic Church has often spoken up during Nigeria’s toughest times, under both military and civilian governments. The main question is not whether the Church has the right to speak, but whether leaders are willing to listen, think, and respond to the concerns raised for the good of the Nigerian people.
