Bode George backs Onaiyekan against Wike attacks

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Nigeria — People s Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, publicly defended Catholic Cardinal John Onaiyekan after the cleric faced criticism from Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike and other government officials over his comments on the state of the nation. George described Onaiyekan as the 'Desmond Tutu of Nigeria' and urged him to continue speaking truth to power despite the attacks. He criticized Wike and government officials for dismissing Onaiyekan's remarks as partisan or limited to Catholics, arguing that government policies affect all Nigerians regardless of faith. George also drew a biblical parallel, comparing the critics to those who chose Barabbas over Jesus. He appealed for respect for Onaiyekan's age and status as a cardinal, and separately condemned personal attacks directed at him by a supporter of Wike. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between religious leaders and the administration of President Bola Tinubu over national policies.