Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national chairman, Uche Secondus, has raised concerns regarding the conduct of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, stating that he presents a significant and growing threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability. According to Secondus, Wike’s actions and behavior, if left unchecked, could potentially undermine the very foundations of the nation's democratic system and lead to destabilization.
Secondus made these remarks while reacting to the local government elections held last Saturday in Rivers State. In a strongly worded statement, he urged the federal government to take heed of Wike's conduct, cautioning that the Minister’s unchecked behavior could lead to the erosion of democratic values in the country.
Through his statement, Secondus specifically warned the federal government that the individual they were shielding and protecting was, in fact, aiming to dismantle democracy in Nigeria. He urged them to take immediate action by closely monitoring Wike’s activities to prevent further damage.
Uche Secondus[/figure]
In his statement, Secondus said, “It’s only in this country and under the watch of a party like APC that one person will be a member of two political parties and use them to cause nuisance in the society.” He continued, explaining that such actions set a dangerous precedent for the nation’s political environment.
Furthermore, Secondus advised President Bola Tinubu to critically assess Wike’s true intentions and see him for what he described as “an unruly bull in a China shop.” He warned that Wike’s behavior indicated a willingness to destroy everything in his path to satisfy his “violent appetite” for power.
Secondus also emphasized the strategic importance of Rivers State to Nigeria, reminding the federal government that the state is home to several critical national assets. He urged President Tinubu to work closely with Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to protect these assets and contain Wike’s excessive ambitions, which he described as dangerous to national stability.
In addition to his criticisms, Secondus offered his congratulations to the people of Rivers State, particularly the voters, who turned out in large numbers during the elections despite facing what he called intimidation and threats from Wike and his supporters. He commended them for standing firm in defense of democracy.
He also praised Governor Fubara for his leadership during the elections, acknowledging his refusal to be intimidated and for demonstrating a commitment to protecting the democratic process in Rivers State. Secondus described Fubara’s actions as a testament to his dedication to upholding democratic principles.
Finally, Secondus concluded his statement with a stern caution to the federal government. He remarked that several warning signs of a failing democracy are now evident in Nigeria and that it is essential for the government to act swiftly and decisively to manage anti-democratic figures like Wike. He urged vigilance and concerted efforts to prevent further erosion of the country’s democratic values.