‘Heed The Bishops’ Advice To Avoid Political Embarrassment’

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“The President should heed their advice. By doing so, he will save himself from embarrassment.”

That was the message delivered by former All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy National Publicity Secretary Timi Frank, who urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to carefully consider the concerns recently raised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) over the country’s economic and democratic challenges.

Frank argued that ignoring the bishops’ recommendations could have significant political consequences as preparations for the 2027 general election gradually gather momentum.

Story In Context

The latest remarks follow the recent engagement between President Tinubu and members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, during which the religious leaders reportedly expressed concerns about the nation’s economic conditions, governance and the state of Nigeria’s democracy.

Reacting to that meeting, Timi Frank described the bishops’ intervention as an important moment of national reflection, insisting that their observations deserved careful consideration rather than dismissal.

Frank Commends Catholic Bishops For Speaking Frankly

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the former APC chieftain praised the Catholic bishops for what he described as their willingness to present the country’s realities directly to the President.

According to him, the clerics demonstrated courage by openly discussing issues affecting millions of Nigerians, particularly the economic difficulties facing citizens and concerns surrounding democratic governance.

Frank maintained that such honesty from influential religious leaders should be encouraged because it contributes to national accountability.

‘Religious Leaders Must Speak Truth To Power’

Beyond commending the bishops, Frank argued that faith leaders have a responsibility to speak whenever government policies or national developments negatively affect the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

He said religious organisations should not remain silent in difficult moments or limit themselves to offering praise to political leaders.

Instead, he maintained that they should continue providing moral guidance on issues affecting governance, justice and public welfare.

Tinubu Urged To Act On The Recommendations

Frank advised President Tinubu to respond positively to the concerns presented during the bishops’ engagement rather than treat them as routine criticism.

According to him, implementing practical measures that address the issues highlighted by the Catholic leaders could strengthen public confidence in the administration and reduce political dissatisfaction ahead of the next electoral cycle.

He argued that constructive engagement with the recommendations would ultimately benefit both the government and the country.

Key Remarks From Timi Frank

Among the major points raised by the former APC spokesman were:

The Catholic bishops displayed courage by speaking openly to the President.
Economic hardship and democratic concerns should receive urgent government attention.
Religious leaders have a duty to speak on issues affecting Nigerians.
President Tinubu should carefully consider the bishops’ recommendations.
Ignoring those concerns, he warned, could create avoidable political consequences before the 2027 election.

Call For Other Religious Organisations To Follow Suit

Frank also encouraged other religious bodies across Nigeria to emulate the Catholic Bishops’ Conference by speaking openly on national issues.

According to him, constructive criticism from respected institutions can strengthen democratic governance and encourage greater accountability among public office holders.

He argued that national development benefits when influential organisations contribute responsibly to conversations on governance and citizens’ welfare.

Political Significance

Frank’s statement reflects how reactions from political stakeholders increasingly extend beyond party politics to include interventions from religious institutions and civil society organisations.

As discussions surrounding governance, economic reforms and democratic accountability continue, comments from influential public figures are expected to remain part of Nigeria’s wider political discourse ahead of the 2027 general election.

Current Position

The remarks represent Timi Frank’s personal political response to the engagement between President Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.

The source report does not indicate that the Presidency or the Catholic Bishops’ Conference has issued any response to Frank’s latest comments.

Looking Ahead

With political activities expected to intensify ahead of 2027, issues relating to governance, economic reforms, public accountability and institutional engagement are likely to remain central topics in national political discussions.

Whether the concerns raised by religious leaders influence future government decisions or become part of broader campaign debates will become clearer as the political landscape continues to evolve.

What Do You Think?

Should religious leaders play a more active role in speaking on governance and national issues, or should they avoid direct involvement in political debates? Share your opinion in the comments below.

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