The Nigeria Democratic Front (NDF) has publicly condemned Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for what they describe as a “misuse of his office” to pursue personal political agendas rather than addressing the pressing needs of Abuja.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the group’s spokesperson, Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe, the NDF urged Wike to redirect his focus toward his primary responsibilities, which they argue have been overshadowed by rising insecurity and significant educational challenges within the FCT.
The group highlighted growing concerns over insecurity and social issues under Wike’s leadership, particularly citing an increase in kidnapping incidents and alarming dropout rates among school-aged children. “The capital is facing critical challenges that require a steady, committed leader,” they stated.
According to NDF, statistics indicate that the number of out-of-school children in the FCT has surged by 35% over the past two years, a trend they attribute to Wike’s lack of focus on developmental issues in the Federal Capital. Instead of prioritizing these critical matters, the group claims Wike has diverted attention and public resources toward political disputes in Rivers State, hundreds of miles away, including ongoing confrontations with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Rivers State government.
“It is unbecoming of a Federal Minister to prioritize personal political vendettas over public duty or to use federal resources to fuel conflicts in Rivers State, rather than addressing the urgent issues affecting Abuja’s residents,” the NDF stated.
The group further accused Wike of attempting to destabilize PDP-controlled states, interfering with local governance in Rivers, impeaching the sitting governor, halting federal allocations to Rivers State Local Government Areas (LGAs), and obstructing democratic processes such as local government elections. They denounced these actions as “mischievous” and warned that such behavior could exacerbate tensions and undermine the credibility of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration.
“These actions indicate a broader intent to politically weaponize his office, posing a threat to governance and inflaming existing regional tensions,” they warned.
The NDF called on Wike to cease his “mischief” and concentrate on his responsibilities, emphasizing that the people of Nigeria do not need additional distractions. They pointed out that the socio-political climate is already tense, and actions that prioritize personal ambitions over public welfare will only deepen instability.
“Nigerians are weary of political theatrics; the FCT deserves a leader focused on solutions, not distractions. It’s time to face your duties, Wike — or step aside,” the statement concluded.