Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has dismissed allegations by Tanimu Turaki, factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that Nigeria’s democracy remains stable and under no threat.
Speaking on Wednesday while receiving the Board and Management of the newly established South-South Development Commission (SSDC) in Abuja, Wike described Turaki’s claims as reckless political indulgence aimed at stoking national tension.
Turaki had alleged on national television that Christians in Nigeria were facing genocide and suggested that the country’s democracy required foreign intervention.
Wike, however, said such statements misrepresent the nation and constitute a threat to national security.
“Look at what someone said yesterday. 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,” Wike said. “Some are even calling Trump to ‘save their democracy’. How can you call an outsider to save you when you can’t obey a simple court order?”
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He emphasized that the true threat to Nigeria’s democracy comes not from within but from political actors who peddle incendiary claims.
During the meeting, Wike urged the SSDC leadership to focus on their mandate, cautioning against political distractions and pressures that could derail their work. Drawing lessons from past regional development agencies, he warned the Board against corruption, project duplication, politically motivated contracts, and disengagement from communities.
“Don’t go and do streets that lead only to one person’s house. Don’t duplicate projects states or local governments are already doing. Go to the communities, ask them what their immediate needs are. Support the President fully. Don’t divide your loyalty. Your loyalty is to the President who appointed you,” he advised.
He also called on the Commission to uphold discipline, fiscal responsibility, and unity, noting that accountability would define their legacy. “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,” Wike cautioned.
In response, SSDC Managing Director Usoro Akpabio assured Wike of the Commission’s commitment to delivering on its mandate. She emphasized plans to strengthen collaboration with federal agencies to drive regional development and economic growth.
Wike added that by praising the qualifications of the Commissioners and Directors, urging them to make a meaningful impact for the South-South region and fully support the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
