On Thursday, as protests broke out across the nation, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was seen arriving at the Presidential Villa in Abuja in the afternoon. Reporters observed the former governor of Rivers State, stepping out of a black Toyota Prado SUV and being escorted into the President’s Office.
At the time of this report, the details of their discussion were not disclosed. However, it is believed that their meeting was related to the hunger protests that had just begun that day, with the FCT serving as a focal point for these demonstrations.
The situation in the FCT quickly escalated as large groups of protesters assembled in both the central business district and nearby suburbs. The demonstrations were met with a response from security forces, who used tear gas to disperse the crowds. The protests were driven by concerns about food shortages and economic hardships affecting many people in the area.
Later, Minister Wike addressed the situation and expressed the Federal Government’s willingness to engage in dialogue with the protesters. He made this statement during a ceremony where he handed over the Staff of Office to four newly appointed Chiefs of Karu, Kwali, Pai, and Yaba in Abuja. This handover was part of a traditional ceremony recognizing their roles as leaders in their communities.
Wike commended the protesters who managed to remain peaceful and called for continued non-violent demonstrations. He highlighted that maintaining peace is crucial for effective communication and resolution of issues with the government. “I want you to continue with that peace process, because he who makes peace will, at the end of the day, enjoy the dividends of peace,” Wike said.
He emphasized that dialogue was the best way to address concerns and find solutions.
The minister also stressed the importance of communication between the government and the public. “We are still ready to talk to them, have a dialogue with them, and iron out the grey areas,” he noted. Wike promised that the government would provide updates and clarifications to help the protesters make informed decisions.
Describing Abuja as the nation’s “centre of unity,” Wike stated, “Abuja is for everybody; if we lose Abuja, we have lost Nigeria. That is why we have always said, let us work together. There is nothing we can’t achieve under the current administration of President Bola Tinubu.” He asked for patience, suggesting that positive changes would come with time and effort.
In his address to the newly appointed chiefs, Wike underlined the significant role traditional rulers play in their communities. He pointed out that they are closest to the people and are instrumental in conveying government policies and actions. “You are the one who knows what the people feel at home; you are the one who will tell us whether the government is making any impact or not,” he said.
Wike emphasized that traditional rulers play a crucial role in shaping public perception by accurately communicating government initiatives. “You will convey to your subjects what the government is doing and what the government is about to do. You are the one to sell government policies and programmes to your people,” he explained.
He concluded by highlighting the importance of delivering the right messages to the public. “If you convey a wrong message, that is what the people will accept. If you convey the right message, that is what the people will accept. So, you play a very pivotal role,” Wike said.
