Nigeria's Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to hold political parties and candidates accountable for their campaign rhetorics. He made the call while criticising alleged remarks by former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, against President Bola Tinubu and his supporters. Wike expressed concern over Amaechi's statements, which were reported to have described people who vote for Tinubu as thieves and mad people.
Wike argued that candidates seeking public office should be held to standards of responsible political communication. He stated that political campaigns should focus on what candidates intend to do for Nigerians, rather than attacks on individuals or their supporters. According to Wike, "We have been told to go on campaign based on issues, what are you going to do for the people? Not on attacking personality, not on insulting individuals." He emphasised the need for issue-based campaigns.
The FCT minister accused the media of applying different standards when reporting allegations against opposition politicians and those against members of the ruling party. He warned that inflammatory campaign rhetorics could heighten political tensions, particularly in Rivers State, where Amaechi might face resistance from supporters of Tinubu if he continued making such statements. Wike stated that Amaechi's remarks were unbecoming of a politician aspiring to occupy the nation's highest political office.
Wike insisted that INEC and security agencies should not ignore conduct capable of undermining peaceful political engagement. He specifically mentioned the potential consequences of Amaechi's statements in Rivers State, saying, "Amaechi says those who vote for the President are madmen and women……If he continues this line, it will be difficult for him to campaign in Rivers." The minister stressed the need for INEC to take action against politicians who make inflammatory remarks.
In addition to discussing political campaigns, Wike addressed security concerns in the FCT. He disclosed that the administration had directed its Department of Development Control, working with security agencies, to remove unauthorised businesses and activities reportedly springing up in parts of the territory. The minister mentioned attempts to establish beer parlours and motor parks in areas stretching from Gwagwalada to Asokoro.
Wike stated that the operators of these unauthorised businesses had not obtained the necessary approvals. He warned that such activities could create security challenges if left unchecked. The minister emphasised that the administration would not allow unauthorised activities to continue. He assured that the FCT administration would work to maintain peace and security in the territory.
The FCT minister's call for issue-based campaigns and accountability from politicians is seen as a significant step towards promoting responsible political communication in Nigeria. His efforts to address security concerns in the FCT also demonstrate the administration's commitment to maintaining peace and order in the territory.
Key points
- Wike urges INEC to take action against politicians making inflammatory campaign remarks.
- The FCT minister emphasises the need for issue-based campaigns and responsible political communication.
- Wike directs the removal of unauthorised businesses and activities in the FCT to address security concerns.
