Wike dismisses Turaki’s genocide claims, says Nigeria’s democracy not under threat

Wike dismisses Turaki’s genocide claims, says Nigeria’s democracy not under threat

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations by factional PDP National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, that Nigeria’s democracy is in danger, describing the comments as “reckless, dangerous and misleading.”

Wike issued the rebuttal on Wednesday while receiving the Board and Management of the newly established South-South Development Commission (SSDC), led by Chairman Prince Chinudom Nwuche and Managing Director Usoro Akpabio, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Akpabio, a former FCT civil servant, said the delegation visited to strengthen institutional ties and enhance development collaboration with federal agencies.

Responding to journalists, Wike faulted Turaki’s televised allegation that Christians were facing genocide and that Nigeria required foreign intervention to preserve its democracy.
According to him, such claims amount to a national security threat and misrepresent Nigeria before the global community.

“Someone goes on national television claiming there is genocide against Christians. Essentially, you are telling the world that this government is committing genocide,” Wike said. “When security agencies invite him, people shout that they want to kill him. This is irresponsible rhetoric.”

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He stressed that Nigeria’s democracy is stable, warning that the real danger lies in politicians who “deliberately stoke tension for personal gain.”

“You cannot fail to put your house in order and then blame others. Impunity cannot continue,” he added.

Turning to his guests, Wike advised the SSDC leadership to avoid political distractions and ensure disciplined execution of their mandate. He cautioned that many regional development commissions in the past collapsed due to corruption, divided loyalties and weak leadership.

“The development of your region depends on your commitment,” he said. “Don’t repeat the mistakes of agencies like the NDDC, where billions were spent with little to show.”

He urged the Commission to avoid duplicated projects, politically motivated contracts and negligence of community needs.

Wike noted that public service would attract political attacks but insisted that integrity must remain non-negotiable.
“Yes, you will step on toes, but I’m not afraid as long as I’m doing the right thing,” he stated.

He also warned the board to maintain unity and financial discipline, saying conflict often begins when funds are released.
“The moment ₦50 billion drops and someone spends it without approval, fights will start. Don’t let that be your legacy,” he cautioned.

Wike praised the credentials of the Commission’s leadership, urging them to deliver visible impact in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Responding on behalf of the delegation, Akpabio assured the Minister of the Commission’s commitment to its mandate of driving development and strengthening its liaison with federal institutions.

Wike dismisses Turaki’s genocide claims, says Nigeria’s democracy not under threat