Wike Says Nigeria’s Democracy Is Stable, Faults Turaki’s Claims

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has dismissed comments by PDP factional chairman Tanimu Turaki that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat, describing the remarks as reckless and capable of raising unnecessary tension.

Wike reacted on Wednesday while receiving the board of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), led by chairman Prince Chinudom Nwuche and managing director Ms Usoro Akpabio, who visited him in Abuja.

Akpabio said the visit was to strengthen partnerships with federal agencies as the new commission begins work and positions the South-South for better development planning.

Wike used the occasion to condemn Turaki’s recent public statements, including allegations of genocide against Christians and calls for foreign intervention. He said such claims misrepresent the country and amount to security threats.

According to him, political actors should not “set the country on fire” because of internal party disputes. He said Nigeria’s democracy remains firm, adding that the real danger comes from those spreading provocative narratives.

The minister also warned the SSDC leadership to avoid political distractions and stay focused on delivering development to the region. He cautioned against the mistakes that weakened past intervention agencies, including contract racketeering, poor community engagement and duplication of state projects.

Wike urged the commission to maintain unity, discipline and accountability as it begins operations, saying disagreements often start when funds are released and mismanaged.

He encouraged the board to justify their appointments through hard work and loyalty to the President’s agenda, stressing that the South-South expects exemplary performance.

In her response, Akpabio assured that the commission is committed to its mandate and will maintain strong collaboration with federal institutions as it rolls out its programmes.