FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Hits Back at Activist Deji Adeyanju Over Abuja Demolitions.
Abuja, Nigeria — Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has responded sharply to criticism from lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju, following recent protests against the ongoing demolitions in Abuja.
Adeyanju Leads Protest Against Wike’s Demolition Actions
Deji Adeyanju, alongside fellow activist Vincent Martins Otse (known as VeryDarkMan), organized a protest last week, condemning Wike’s demolition of structures in Ruga, a settlement located along Abuja’s Airport Road. Adeyanju accused the minister of overstepping his authority, stating, “There is no justification for this demolition,” and called on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action against Wike.
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Protesters held placards demanding that the President sack Wike, citing alleged abuses of power in handling the demolition exercise.
Wike Dismisses Criticism, Calls Adeyanju “Jobless”
In a strong rebuttal during an interview with journalists, Wike dismissed Adeyanju’s protests, labeling the activist as “jobless” and merely seeking attention. Wike further alleged that Adeyanju had approached him in the past for a political position within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but was turned down.
“I saw one young man, they call him Adeyanju. He is from Kogi State,” Wike remarked. “This young boy came to me saying he wanted to be the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, and I said no. He was not selected, and I have no regrets about it. Now, he has suddenly become a civil society activist because he has no job.”
Ongoing Controversy Over Abuja Demolitions
The controversy surrounding Wike’s demolition campaign has sparked public debate, with many residents and civil society groups expressing concern over the potential displacement of residents. Wike, however, maintains that the demolitions are necessary to restore the Abuja Master Plan and curb illegal settlements.
What’s Next?
As tensions rise, all eyes are on President Bola Tinubu and his administration’s next steps. Will the President intervene, or will Wike continue his aggressive approach to urban planning in the capital city?
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