Nyesom Wike accuses activist Deji Adeyanju of attacking him over past political rejection, fueling tensions amid protests against FCT demolitions.
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has taken a swipe at activist Deji Adeyanju, accusing him of launching personal attacks after being denied the role of National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a media chat held in Abuja, Wike revealed that Adeyanju had sought his endorsement for the party position, a request Wike firmly rejected.
According to Wike, Adeyanju became "jobless" after the rejection and reinvented himself as a civil society activist. Wike criticized Adeyanju for using activism as a platform to lash out at the FCT administration. The Minister dismissed Adeyanju's recent protests, including his opposition to the demolition of Ruga settlement in Abuja, labeling them as mere distractions.
Adeyanju had initially publicly criticized Wike’s governance approach, particularly over demolition exercises in the FCT. The activist accused Wike of disproportionately focusing development efforts on the city center while neglecting the outskirts. Last week, Adeyanju led a protest against the demolition of Ruga, describing the actions as unjust and urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
Wike's Justification for Demolitions
Amid criticisms, Wike defended the demolitions, asserting that illegal structures undermine Abuja's urban development plans. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to enforcing town planning laws despite protests and blackmail. Wike also revealed plans to work with the affected communities to explore humane solutions while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the FCT's master plan.
Adeyanju's Response
Though Wike's comments sparked reactions, Adeyanju refrained from issuing an immediate rebuttal, instead posting on social media that he was busy with client work. His subtle response hinted at an ongoing rivalry without directly addressing Wike’s claims.
The clash between Wike and Adeyanju reveals Nigeria's volatile intersection of politics and activism. While Wike defends his policies as necessary for development, Adeyanju's activism raises critical questions about governance priorities, transparency, and the treatment of vulnerable communities.