Abuja, Nigeria – Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has sharply criticised comments made by Umar Turaki, a factional Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), had called for the intervention of former United States President Donald Trump in Nigeria’s political landscape. He also urged other democratic nations to help “save Nigeria’s democracy.”
This call followed a recent clash between rival PDP factions at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
Wike Condemns Turaki’s Remarks as Threat to National Security
Responding to Turaki’s statements, Minister Wike described them as reckless. He further labelled them a direct threat to Nigeria’s national security.
“This is a threat to national security,” the former Rivers State governor declared. “You are calling on Trump to come and save your democracy. Yet, you cannot obey a simple court judgment.”
Wike highlighted that Turaki’s faction had chosen impunity over adherence to legal processes. He questioned the logic of seeking external help while disregarding internal legal rulings.
“You cannot keep your house in order,” Wike stated. “Then you blame an outsider for your own disarray.”
The FCT Minister stressed that the ongoing internal crisis within the PDP bears no relation to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“Our democracy is not under threat,” he clarified. “People went to court to challenge your actions. You then think, as usual, impunity will prevail. We cannot continue that way.”
Wike Dismisses ‘Genocide Against Christians’ Claim
Wike also strongly refuted Turaki’s assertion that Nigerian Christians are facing genocide. He called this a dangerous and unfounded allegation. Wike believes such claims warrant immediate investigation by security agencies.
“You come out and make a statement on national television,” Wike lamented. “You claim there is not only killing but genocide against Christians.”
He continued, “In essence, you have told the world that this government is carrying out genocide against Christians. Where are the security agencies?”
Wike questioned why Turaki has not been invited to substantiate his claims. “For someone to make such a statement, you should invite them. Ask them if they have facts. Ask them to kindly provide information. This would help us know what to do.”
He expressed frustration at the perceived silence, adding, “You don’t want to say anything. But if it is Wike, kill him!”
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