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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, firmly rejected assertions by factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tanimu Turaki, that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat. He described Turaki’s comments as reckless and politically motivated attempts to stir discord within the nation.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) Board and Management led by Chairman Chinudom Nwuche and Managing Director Usoro Akpabio, the minister dismissed Turaki’s televised allegations of Christian genocide and calls for foreign intervention as dangerous provocations that endanger national security.
“Look at what someone said yesterday (Tuesday). You have internal crises in your own party, yet you go on national television claiming there is genocide against Christians. Essentially, you are telling the world that this government is committing genocide. And when security agencies invite you to clarify your claims, people shout, ‘They want to kill him!’ This is a national security threat. Some are even calling on Trump to ‘save their democracy.’ How can you call an outsider to save you when you can’t obey a simple court order?” Wike questioned.
The minister stressed that Nigeria’s democracy is stable and the real danger lies with political actors who spread incendiary misinformation. “You cannot keep your house in order and then blame others for your failures. Impunity cannot continue,” he asserted.
Wike urged the SSDC leadership to remain focused on their developmental mandate, avoiding political distractions and external pressures. He warned against the repetition of past mistakes by regional development bodies related to corruption, divided loyalties, and poor leadership.
“The development of your region depends heavily on your commitment. Too many people see an appointment as an opportunity to announce, ‘I have arrived.’ Many are not committed to the job. But the only way to justify your appointment and make the President proud is to work tirelessly to deliver the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
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He cautioned against politically motivated contracts, duplication of projects, and neglect of community engagement, advising the Commission to concentrate on grassroots needs and align loyalty solely to the President who appointed them.
Acknowledging political pressures he has faced, Wike stressed that integrity must prevail in public service: “I am here as minister because I knew I could do the work. And yes, you will step on toes. But I’m not afraid as long as I’m doing the right thing.”
Wike charged the SSDC to work cohesively, maintain discipline and fiscal responsibility, and resist undue contract pressures. “Today, you are united because there’s no project and no money yet. But the moment ₦50 billion drops and someone spends it without approval, fights will start. Don’t let that be your legacy,” he warned.
He praised the commissioners’ qualifications and called for exceptional performance to bring pride to the South-South region and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In response, Akpabio assured that the Commission would be committed to its developmental mandate and would intensify engagement with federal agencies through its liaison office in Abuja.
“On behalf of the good people of the South-South Development Commission, be assured that we are fully committed to delivering on our mandate to drive regional development and economic growth,” she said.
