John Onaiyekan, archbishop emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, says Nigerians are losing confidence in their elected representatives in the national assembly.
He spoke on Thursday during an appearance on Prime Time, a current affairs programme on Arise Television. Onaiyekan said many citizens no longer feel represented. He blamed lawmakers’ priorities and decisions for the growing disconnect.
Background: Bishops’ Communiqué
Onaiyekan linked his remarks to a communiqué issued on Monday by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.
In the statement, the bishops asked the national assembly to review the newly signed Electoral Act. They also demanded that lawmakers make electronic transmission of results mandatory.
The body argued that compulsory electronic transmission would improve transparency. It would also restore public trust in the electoral system.
Onaiyekan dismissed suggestions that the communiqué was political.
The clergy said that the document reflects deep love for Nigeria and strong Christian conviction, adding that the bishops acted in good faith.
He noted that nearly 70 bishops from different ethnic and regional backgrounds endorsed the statement.
The archbishop emeritus noted that they drew their conclusions from what they hear across the country.
Doubts Over Representation
Onaiyekan described weak representation as a central national problem.
He said Nigerians no longer feel sure that members of the national assembly truly represent them, pointing to the priorities lawmakers set and the decisions they make.
He argued that the bishops remain close to ordinary Nigerians. Because of that proximity, he said, they understand public concerns more clearly.
At the same time, he ruled out any political ambition. He said the church has no intention of taking over the government. Instead, the cleric described its role as moral and prophetic. According to him, the bishops will continue to speak truth to power.
He added that they choose their words carefully. However, he said they will not keep silent in the face of national challenges.
Declining Trust in Elections
Onaiyekan also expressed concern about the state of Nigeria’s political institutions. He said elections, in particular, have lost credibility in the eyes of many citizens.
Drawing from his decades of experience, he said the country has changed significantly. He voiced sadness over the direction of the electoral process.
He cited data from the Independent National Electoral Commission. According to him, voter turnout has declined steadily since 1999. He said each election records deeper voter apathy.
He interpreted the trend as a sign of distrust. In his view, many Nigerians no longer believe their votes count.
