By Dapo Akinrefon
Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olabode George, on Sunday, described John Cardinal Onaiyekan as the “Desmond Tutu of Nigeria.”
George, the Atona Oodua of Yorubaland, also urged Onaiyekan not to be distracted by criticisms from FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and some government officials over his comments on the state of the nation.
While urging Onaiyekan to draw lessons from the challenges faced by the late South African cleric, Desmond Tutu, George said Nigerian clerics and Christians would continue to speak on issues affecting the country.
He said: “Look at the way Nyesom Wike attacked Cardinal Onaiyekan. Does that make any sense to an average Nigerian?
“One government official said Onaiyekan was only speaking for Catholics, as if other Christians, Muslims and atheists are not affected by the policies of this administration. Another official said Onaiyekan is working for the opposition.
“What is going on now also happened in the Bible. When Pilate asked the people who they wanted crucified, they called for Barabbas to be released and Jesus Christ to be crucified.
“So, if some people are criticising Onaiyekan today, they are behaving like those who chose Barabbas.
“I urge the Cardinal to continue to hold the faith and speak the truth without fear. He should keep advising the government on what to do to make Nigeria great.
“Onaiyekan is a cardinal and a member of the conclave that elects the Pope. He is over 80 years old. Anybody who wants to grow old should not attack an octogenarian who is also a cleric.”
George also criticised comments directed at him by individuals he said were associated with Wike, urging political actors to maintain respect in their public engagements.
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