Bishop Kawas Claims Terrorism Used to Blackmail Tinubu

Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, President-General of the Charismatic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, has made serious allegations that certain individuals are financing banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism to tarnish the reputation of President Bola Tinubu's administration. This claim was articulated during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Tuesday, where Kawas defended the bishops' recent endorsement of Tinubu for a second term.

Kawas emphasized that the endorsement was not influenced by financial incentives, stating firmly, "Today, this endorsement has not given us any one naira. No one naira has been given to us." He insisted that the bishops' support was driven by their conviction regarding the current challenges facing Nigeria, particularly the sabotage orchestrated by those allegedly sponsoring violence to discredit Tinubu.

The archbishop drew parallels between the current political climate and the situation during former President Goodluck Jonathan's tenure, suggesting that similar attempts were made to portray Jonathan unfavorably. He argued that the insecurity plaguing the nation is being exploited by certain factions to frustrate and undermine Tinubu's government. "There are international intelligence reports indicating that some people are sponsoring all this banditry and terrorism just to give Tinubu a bad name to frustrate his government and to blackmail him and blacklist him," Kawas asserted.

In response to questions about the role of financial considerations in political endorsements, Kawas reiterated that the bishops' support for a candidate should not hinge on monetary gain. "If we participate in politics, and any blessing comes from it, fine and good. But where the blessing does not come financially, it also doesn’t matter so long as we are convinced that that is the right candidate," he explained. This stance reflects the bishops' commitment to supporting what they believe is in the best interest of the nation, regardless of financial implications.

Bishops' Endorsements Amid Financial Constraints

Kawas also referenced the 2023 presidential election, highlighting how Peter Obi's refusal to provide financial incentives did not deter the bishops from supporting him at that time. "So, that is what happened as at the time when Peter Obi did not give any money to any Nigerian, he said he would give shishi, and that did not stop us," he remarked, underscoring the bishops' principled approach to political endorsements.

The Political Landscape and Allegations of Blackmail

The allegations made by Kawas raise significant questions about the intersection of politics, financial influence, and public perception in Nigeria. As the bishops navigate their endorsement of Tinubu amidst claims of terrorism sponsorship, the implications of these accusations could reverberate throughout the political landscape. The assertion that external forces are attempting to manipulate public opinion and discredit leadership underscores the complexities of governance in a nation grappling with security challenges.

Kawas's statements not only reflect a defense of Tinubu but also highlight the broader narrative of political blackmail and the lengths to which some individuals may go to achieve their aims. As the situation unfolds, the bishops' endorsement may serve as a pivotal moment in shaping public discourse around the administration and the ongoing struggle against terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria.