The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has raised alarm over what it described as irresponsible actions by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, warning that his conduct threatens democratic governance and institutional integrity in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by National Coordinator Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the coalition accused Wike of repeatedly overstepping his constitutional mandate.
“It is imperative to address these issues publicly, as they not only threaten the integrity of the political landscape but also undermine the principles of governance and accountability that should guide our nation,” Charanchi said.
He added: “Wike’s tenure has been marked by a troubling pattern of behavior that includes unwarranted encroachments into territories beyond his jurisdiction. His blatant disregard for the boundaries of his office is alarming.”
EFCC Manipulation Allegation
The coalition cited Wike’s alleged manipulation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed as the most glaring example of overreach.
“One of the most egregious examples of Wike’s overreach is his recent manipulation of the EFCC against Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. This blatant misuse of power is pushing the limits of tolerance far too far and is simply unacceptable,” Charanchi stated.
He further claimed that the EFCC’s response to Governor Mohammed’s remarks appeared to be “a scripted defense for Wike’s political maneuverings, raising serious questions about the independence of this critical institution.”
The group warned that Wike does not have a monopoly on power or influence, stressing that “in the fullness of time, excesses are often repaid in equal measure.”
ACF Says No Endorsement in 2027
Meanwhile, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has announced it will not endorse any candidate in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking in Kaduna, ACF national publicity secretary Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba said the forum would interview presidential hopefuls within six months to assess their plans for tackling insecurity and poverty in the North.
Among those who have indicated interest in contesting are President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, and Adewole Adebayo.
Muhammad-Baba explained: “We are not going to endorse any presidential candidate or political party in the 2027 elections because our organisation is diverse. We can only endorse plans and ideas that are in line with Northern interests. We are not partisan.”
Tradition of Candidate Engagement
The ACF recalled that in 2019 it endorsed President Muhammadu Buhari against Atiku Abubakar but did not endorse candidates in 2015 or 2023.
Muhammad-Baba said the forum would continue its tradition of inviting aspirants to explain how they intend to address challenges in education, infrastructure, economic empowerment, and insecurity.
“Some of the candidates came and others did not come. Like Atiku Abubakar did not come; Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso did not come. Peter Obi came; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu came, and so on. We had interaction with them ahead of the 2023 elections,” he noted.
Former ACF secretary general Anthony Sani confirmed the stance, stressing that endorsing candidates would undermine the unity of the forum since membership cuts across political parties.
Board of Trustees chairman Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu added: “Northern Nigeria will remain faithful not to particular politicians or political parties but to those who care about our regional interests and are willing to promote and protect them.”
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
