Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Reverend Dr. John Joseph Hayab, has defended the role of religious leaders in national discourse, saying speaking on governance and citizens’ welfare should not be viewed as political partisanship.
According to the interview, aired on Trust TV’s official YouTube channel on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Hayab said Catholic bishops who recently raised concerns about insecurity, hunger and governance were fulfilling their moral responsibility rather than advancing a political agenda. He also defended Cardinal John Onaiyekan, arguing that the cleric has consistently spoken on national issues across successive administrations.
Hayab rejected claims that the bishops’ meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was motivated by the 2027 elections, saying presidential appointments often take time to secure. He also clarified that the Northern CAN should not be associated with the views of other groups speaking independently.
Commenting on the Tinubu administration, Hayab called for a balanced assessment, saying, “I cannot sit here and lie to myself and say this president has not done well, but I cannot also sit here and lie to Mr President that everything is well in Nigeria. I think that is the balance.”
According to the interview, Hayab also disclosed that he was criticised by supporters of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 election over his position on religious balance, insisting his views were based on principle rather than political allegiance.
