CNG accuses Wike of undermining democracy

The Coalition of Northern Groups has raised the alarm over what it described as reckless conduct by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that his actions pose a grave threat to Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The group specifically accused Wike of overstepping his constitutional mandate and allegedly manipulating the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission against Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed.

In a statement on Tuesday, the CNG’s National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, said the minister’s conduct reflected a troubling pattern of interference in matters beyond his office, including state governance and internal party affairs.

Charanchi alleged that Wike’s actions showed a disregard for federalism and the autonomy of state governments, adding that such behaviour was incompatible with democratic norms and accountability.

He described the EFCC’s response to Governor Mohammed’s comments as “scripted”, claiming it raised serious questions about the commission’s independence and neutrality.

According to the group, the timing and manner of the EFCC’s actions against the Bauchi governor suggested political motivation rather than a genuine anti-corruption effort.

The coalition warned that Wike did not possess a monopoly of power, noting that political excesses often attract consequences in due course.

It also cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be vigilant, arguing that failure to rein in the minister’s alleged excesses could tarnish the integrity of his administration and weaken public confidence in democratic governance.

The group further accused Wike of compromising key institutions, including the police, judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission, particularly during his tenure as Rivers State governor.

The CNG claimed that the minister’s alleged interference in opposition parties, especially the Peoples Democratic Party, risked deepening factionalism and destabilising the political landscape.

It expressed concern over what it called growing confusion about the locus of power in the country, warning that such ambiguity could fuel a governance crisis.

The coalition urged the EFCC to focus strictly on its statutory mandate of combating financial crimes and resist political pressure.

It also called on civil society organisations, political parties and citizens to remain vigilant in defending democracy, electoral integrity and the rule of law.