Wike Calls for Rejection of Ethnic Exploitation in Politics

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, addressed Nigerians on October 15, 2026, urging them to reject politicians who exploit ethnic sentiments and grievances for personal ambitions. Speaking at the inaugural Idoma hall of fame induction ceremony in Abuja, Wike emphasized that ethnic loyalty should not overshadow competence, accountability, and service delivery.

He delivered a lecture titled “People, Politics and Power Play in Nigeria: The Agitation for Equity and Fairness,” cautioning against politicians who use equity agitation as a tool for securing public office without genuine commitment to citizens' welfare. Wike criticized politicians who neglect the downtrodden while in office but seek to gain favor by celebrating their birthdays in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

He called for consistency in the demand for justice and warned against selective opposition to marginalization. Wike also discussed the federal character principle in the 1999 Constitution, advocating for equitable representation that does not compromise competence.