The Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, has urged those calling for the suspension of the inauguration of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to desist from creating a constitutional crisis. He warned that the call was not possible, given that President Muhammadu Buhari must hand over to Tinubu on May 29 in accordance with the constitution.
While addressing the congregation at the 57th World Communications Day at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Bishop Ajakaye insisted that May 29 handover date was sacrosanct that must not be trifled with. He added that any suggestion to the contrary could result in a constitutional crisis.
“A new us is possible in Nigeria,” the bishop said. He believed that Nigeria must find a lawful way or ways of addressing the legion of electoral issues before any electoral year stipulated date. For those whose elections are nullified by the court, up to the Supreme Court, Bishop Ajakaye recommended that they must refund their salaries and other benefits earned illegally. According to the bishop, such people should not be addressed as former this or former that because the courts have ruled against them.
The Catholic Bishop emphasized the importance of internal democracy in all political parties as a fundamental principle of governance in Nigeria. Bishop Ajakaye also suggested the need for independent candidacy in the Nigerian political system.
He urged the incoming administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to champion politics of engagement over politics of intimidation, saying that the new administration’s renewed hope must be meaningful and positive. He further stated that communicating cordially and heart to heart would promote a language of peace, among other positive values.
Above all, Bishop Ajakaye called on journalists and communicators to uphold ethical standards and to promote positive news about society while avoiding sensationalized stories. Communicators should be teachers and students in their communication, he said.
