By Kafayat Kokumo

The Executive Director of Development Specs Academy, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, has defended the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) over its recent engagement with President Bola Tinubu, saying the bishops were justified in raising concerns about insecurity, economic hardship and governance.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Ikechukwu said the bishops were performing their democratic responsibility by conveying the concerns of Nigerians to the President.

“What they did is part of what you call the feedback loop for good governance, where interest groups, individuals, institutions and stakeholders take time to raise issues with those who should do something about it,” he said.

While acknowledging that President Tinubu also had the right to respond, Ikechukwu said government should focus on strengthening public confidence and addressing citizens’ concerns.

On preparations for the 2027 general elections, the development expert welcomed the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) assurances on electoral reforms but cautioned against excessive optimism, citing the experience of the 2023 general elections.

According to him, credible elections will depend not only on technology but also on effective institutions and strict enforcement of electoral laws.

“I’m not calling for a level playing field. I’m calling for a field with clear rules of engagement, enforceable penalties for misconduct and institutions of state that have credibility,” he said.

Ikechukwu also commented on the President’s reported statement that “all is fair in politics,” arguing that politics should be guided by morality, justice and accountability.

On the economy, he said although the administration’s reforms may be well-intentioned, many Nigerians were yet to experience tangible improvements in their living conditions.

He urged government officials to communicate with greater sensitivity, noting that rising food prices, insecurity and declining purchasing power remain key concerns for many citizens.

The development expert also spoke on the renewed public debate over the President’s academic credentials, suggesting that INEC should clearly indicate whether candidates meet constitutional requirements whenever questions arise over submitted documents.

He further attributed weak political accountability to both political leaders and voters, warning that vote-buying continued to undermine democratic governance.

“When you give somebody money to buy his vote and he accepts it, he has already said it doesn’t matter who you are or what you do for the next four years,” he said.

Ikechukwu urged Nigerians to make informed electoral choices through political education, stressing that sustainable democracy depends on responsible leadership and an electorate willing to hold public office holders accountable.