We Didn't Visit Tinubu to Convert Him to Catholicism, Says Catholic Bishops
The Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has clarified that the recent meeting between the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not an attempt to persuade the President to embrace the Catholic faith.
Speaking on the controversy that followed the visit, Cardinal Onaiyekan dismissed speculations surrounding the meeting, stressing that the bishops' engagement with the President was part of their longstanding commitment to dialogue on national issues rather than religious conversion.
According to the senior Catholic cleric, the Catholic Church has no agenda to convert President Tinubu or any public official through such meetings. He explained that engagements between religious leaders and government officials are common and are primarily aimed at discussing matters affecting the country, including security, governance, economic challenges, education, and national unity.
Onaiyekan also stated that the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria has no intention of engaging in a public exchange with government spokespersons over the matter, noting that the Church remains focused on its mission and responsibilities.
"The Catholic Bishops did not visit President Tinubu to convert him to the Catholic Church," Onaiyekan said, emphasizing that the purpose of the meeting had been misunderstood in some public commentaries.
He added that the Church believes constructive engagement with leaders is an important part of its role in promoting peace, justice, and good governance, regardless of the religious affiliation of those in public office.
The clarification follows reactions that emerged after the bishops' visit to the Presidential Villa, with some commentators speculating about the motive behind the meeting. Those claims sparked public debate on social media and in political circles.
Observers, however, note that it is common practice for religious bodies in Nigeria—including Christian and Muslim organizations—to meet with government officials to discuss issues of national importance and offer counsel on governance.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference has consistently used its annual communiqués and engagements with public officials to raise concerns about insecurity, economic hardship, corruption, youth unemployment, and the need for policies that improve the welfare of Nigerians.
Political analysts say the latest clarification is aimed at redirecting public attention to the substance of the meeting rather than speculation about religious matters.
As discussions continue, Cardinal Onaiyekan reiterated that the Church remains committed to working with all leaders in the interest of national development while maintaining its independence and spiritual mission.
The Catholic Church also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, and national cohesion, urging Nigerians to avoid spreading misinformation capable of creating unnecessary religious or political tensions.