Peter Obi Never Gave Me One Naira” — Archbishop Kawas Defends Tinubu Endorsement

Archbishop Leonard Bouwe Kawas, President General of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), has defended his decision to endorse President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, rejecting claims that his political choice makes him a “fake bishop.”

According to Ireporter Online, Kawas made the remarks during an interview on Arise TV, where he recalled supporting Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election without receiving financial assistance from the former Anambra State governor.

The clergyman said he personally financed the transportation of six clergymen who travelled to Obi’s campaign to pray and offer their support during the election.

Kawas maintained that despite his involvement in Obi’s campaign at the time, nobody questioned his credibility or described him as a fake bishop because he did not receive money or personal benefits from Obi.

“Peter Obi never gave me one dollar, one naira. Neither did he even ever ask me one day, ‘How did I come to the campaign?’” he said.

He explained that he would attend Obi’s campaign events with other clergymen, pray for the candidate and personally cover their transportation expenses.

“He would just see me at the campaign. We would pray for him. I would pay the transportation of six clergymen. We’ll come there and support him,” Kawas stated.

According to him, Obi never asked where he stayed or how he travelled to the campaign, yet his support for the Labour Party candidate did not attract accusations that he was not a genuine bishop.

“He never asked me how did I come, which hotel did I sleep. Yet I did it, and nobody called me fake,” he added.

Kawas said the criticism began after he publicly endorsed Tinubu for the 2027 election, with some Nigerians questioning his credibility and describing him as a “fake bishop.”

He, however, insisted that his decision to support Tinubu was not motivated by financial inducement or personal gain.

The Archbishop maintained that his endorsement was based on what he believes was divine direction, saying his faith played a major role in determining the candidate he chose to support.

“Is it now that because I have prayed and God has led me that it is Tinubu, that I suddenly now become fake?” he asked.

His comments have added to the ongoing debate over the involvement of religious leaders in Nigerian politics, particularly their decision to publicly endorse political candidates ahead of elections.

Kawas’ defence also highlights the contrasting reactions religious figures can face when they change political allegiances, especially as political parties and their supporters intensify preparations for the 2027 presidential election.