The Arewa Democratic Front (ADF), a Northern advocacy group, has issued an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, raising serious concerns over recent statements made by Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister. The ADF views Wike’s comments as a significant threat to national security and the unity of Nigeria.
In his recent remarks during a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congress in Rivers State, Wike threatened to cause chaos in states governed by the PDP if their governors interfered in the political situation in Rivers State. He explicitly warned that any governor who meddles in Rivers State’s affairs would face turmoil in their own state. Wike’s threats were directed particularly at Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, suggesting that he would retaliate by creating unrest in the governor’s state.
In their open letter, ADF President Engr. Mustapha Yusuf and Coordinating Secretary Malam Muazu Haruna strongly condemned Wike’s remarks, labeling them as dangerous and destabilizing. The ADF emphasized that such statements are not only a direct assault on the peace and unity promoted by the current administration but also a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic principles. They expressed alarm over the possibility that Wike’s statements reflect a broader, more troubling attitude within the administration.
The letter highlighted the potential implications of Wike’s threats, noting that they go beyond mere political squabbles and could endanger the stability of Northern Nigeria and the entire country. The ADF criticized the lack of a prompt response from the Presidency, calling for clarity on whether Wike’s inflammatory remarks represent the official stance of the government or if they are the outburst of an unchecked official.
The ADF reminded President Tinubu that Northern Nigeria has already endured significant violence, including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts. They stressed that the region cannot afford to have a senior government official exacerbate these issues by inciting further division and conflict. The group called for immediate action, urging the President to address Wike’s threats and to take steps to ensure they do not escalate.
The ADF also requested that the National Security Adviser and relevant security agencies investigate Wike’s statements and act to prevent any further escalation of tensions. They reiterated their commitment to resisting any attempts to destabilize Northern Nigeria and protecting their communities from political violence.
