NCA slams Wike over Jabi Lake controversy

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Northern Christian Association has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that political authority should never be used as a platform for arrogance, offensive remarks, or statements that undermine respect for God and public sensitivities.
The association was responding to recent comments attributed to Wike during the controversy over the proposed development and land administration at Jabi Lake in Abuja, where a female cleric was reported to have knelt in public to plead with the minister to reconsider the project. This appeal drew widespread reactions.
Wike, while responding to the emotional plea, was reported to have made statements including that even if “God comes down,” he would not yield to pressure.
The above statement sparked criticism from parts of the Christian community.
In a statement issued to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday and signed by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association advised the minister to reflect on the concerns raised by the public.
They called for him to apologize to Nigerians who felt offended by his comment, seek genuine forgiveness, and return to a posture of humility before God and the people.
Hayab reminded Wike that, as a Christian who professes Christ, the Holy Scriptures admonish believers to season their words with grace, guided by wisdom, and spoken in a manner that edifies rather than provokes or demeans others.
He further emphasized that the Bible teaches that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks, stressing that leaders bear a greater responsibility to ensure their words promote peace, unity, and mutual respect in a diverse society.
The association stated that while the government has the legal authority to manage land and enforce planning regulations, such powers should be exercised with restraint, civility, and due regard for the feelings and rights of citizens—especially in matters touching on religion.
It maintained that the minister could have politely declined the emotional plea from the kneeling woman and explained the legal framework governing land administration in Abuja without resorting to expressions that might be seen as insulting to God or offensive to believers.
The group emphasized that political office is temporary and should be exercised with humility, warning that no leader should allow power to create the impression that they are beyond accountability to God or the people they serve.
Furthermore, the association clarified that its stance was not politically motivated but a moral and faith-based intervention. It added that it would continue speaking out whenever any individual, regardless of status, is perceived to disrespect the Christian faith or any other belief system.
“We are speaking out against Wike just as we will speak out against anyone who disrespects our faith,” the statement read.
It called on public officials across the country to practice restraint in their communications, show sensitivity to religious concerns, and use their positions to foster unity, peace, and national cohesion rather than controversy or division.
While acknowledging that every country has the right to issue travel advisories based on its own assessment, the Federal Government urged balanced and up-to-date reporting that reflects the progress being made.
“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation on the ground,” he added.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to sustaining security improvements, protecting citizens and visitors, and assured the international community that Nigeria remains a safe and welcoming destination for all.

The government also highlights ongoing measurable gains in security operations across multiple regions, driven by coordinated military efforts, intelligence-led interventions, and strengthened inter-agency collaboration. “These efforts continue to reduce threats in affected areas while sustaining stability in the majority of the country.”