The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has raised serious concerns over what it described as the conduct of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesome Wike, warning that alleged abuse of power and interference in democratic institutions pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic governance and institutional integrity. In a statement by the National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the coalition expressed alarm over what it termed repeated overreach by the FCT Minister, including alleged interference in matters beyond his constitutional mandate and the politicization of key state institutions.
The group accused the minister of encroaching on the autonomy of state governments and interfering in political party affairs, actions it said undermine federalism, accountability and democratic tolerance. It further alleged that anti-graft institutions are being drawn into political battles, raising questions about their independence and credibility. The coalition expressed particular concern over what it described as the use of state institutions to intimidate political opponents, warning that selective accountability and perceived weaponisation of agencies erode public trust and weaken democracy.
It stressed that political accountability must be impartial and uniformly applied, regardless of political affiliation. CNG also cautioned that unchecked excesses could negatively affect national stability and damage the integrity of the current administration. CNG urged the President to remain vigilant and to act decisively to prevent any actions capable of undermining democratic principles, institutional independence and the rule of law.
The group further raised concerns about the broader implications for democratic institutions, including the police, judiciary and electoral bodies, warning that persistent interference could deepen factionalism within political parties and weaken opposition, to the detriment of democratic competition. The coalition appealed to Nigerians to collectively reject intimidation and suppression, stressing that safeguarding democratic institutions is essential to ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard and respected in the country’s political process.
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