A coalition comprising more than 10,000 natives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and civil society organizations converged on the National Assembly on Wednesday, demanding the resignation of Nyesom Wike, the current FCT Minister. Organized by the Network of Civil Societies for Economic Sustainability, the protest cited alleged incompetence and a lack of vision on Wike’s part as the primary reasons for their call.
Described as the largest protest in the history of FCT demonstrations, the crowd carried placards and banners expressing dissatisfaction with Wike’s leadership. The Network’s convener, Adamu Kabir Matazu, addressed the gathering, characterizing the former Rivers State governor as callous, indecorous, greedy, and selfish.
Matazu voiced concerns about the direction of the FCT under Wike’s administration, asserting that his actions not only undermined President Tinubu’s agenda but also raised doubts about the federal government’s credibility. The convener accused Wike of being a challenging figure for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging the Federal Government to remove him from office.
Protesters expressed dissatisfaction with Wike’s alleged involvement in land grabbing, cronyism, and high-handedness in land policies, which they claimed reflected corruption. The clash between Wike and the governor of Rivers State was cited as an example of the minister’s engagement in divisive politics.
The Network of Civil Society for Economic Sustainability called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action against Wike, emphasizing the need for leaders who prioritize public interest over personal agendas. Matazu stated, “It is in the best interest of our nation that Mr. Wike’s disruptive tendencies are addressed promptly to safeguard the integrity of this administration and ensure that the objectives set for the FCT are pursued diligently and without distractions.”