An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, has accused presidential spokespersons, Daniel Bwala and Bayo Onanuga, of escalating tensions with the Christian community. He asserted that the unwarranted attacks on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and Cardinal John Onaiyekan following the bishops’ comments on poverty, hardship and insecurity in the country were politically damaging. Vatsa warned that the continuous attack could undermine President Bola Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term in 2027. “Their comments and attacks on these highly respected Christian leaders will surely hurt the President in his re-election bid,” Vatsa said. He further urged Bwala and Onanuga to show greater respect for the Christian faith and the Catholic Church, warning that persistent attacks on prominent Christian leaders could further widen the trust deficit between the government and many Christian faithful.