Religious Leaders Stage Protest in Abuja to Defend FCT Minister Nyesom Wike
In a surprising development in the Federal Capital Territory, a group of religious leaders from various faiths organized a protest in Abuja to express their support for the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. The demonstrators urged the former governor of Rivers State to continue his work in the Nigerian capital, marking a dramatic shift in the ongoing political tensions surrounding his administration.
Protesters Call for Continuity in FCT Leadership
The leader of the protesters, dressed in religious attire, spoke on behalf of the group and offered prayers for President Bola Tinubu to sustain Wike as the FCT Minister. The spokesperson expressed optimism that if Wike remains in the position for eight years, Abuja could be developed to rival cities in the United States in terms of infrastructure and progress.
Contrasting Protests Highlight Political Divisions
This pro-Wike demonstration comes after a series of protests against the FCT Minister from different quarters. Workers in Abuja have been on strike and protesting over unpaid arrears, while last week, some members of the All Progressives Congress staged a protest calling for Wike's removal. The emergence of religious leaders supporting Wike adds a new dimension to the political landscape in the capital.
Social Media Reactions to the Protest Video
A video of the protest featuring individuals dressed as Christian and Muslim leaders has circulated online, generating mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media platforms:
- Satan criticized the protesters: "This is how their pastors sold their right and privilege for slavery mentality. He's attacking Sowore instead of speaking for the workers that didn't get paid and the teachers. He's against Sowore speaking for the people."
- Adebanji commended Wike's performance: "While there is certainly more to be done, Wike's performance in Abuja has been impressive so far. The progress across the FCT is so evident that it's impossible to miss."
- Native questioned the protesters' attire: "First of all, that's a monsignor's attire in the Catholic Church. And priests don't wear dark shades while on official attire. Secondly, you'll never see a Catholic cleric engaging in such political rascality."
- Ghost CFC noted inconsistencies in the protest: "Who again noticed only one man shouting amen? Are others not in sync with what the man of God was spewing? Dem go sha pay am higher wage than others cos na only am do the needed work."
Political Implications and Public Perception
The conflicting protests reflect deeper political divisions in Abuja regarding Wike's administration. While some groups demand his removal over governance issues, the religious leaders' demonstration suggests there is also significant support for his continued tenure. This situation highlights the complex interplay between religion, politics, and public administration in Nigeria's capital city.
