The Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence have strongly condemned the recent statements by Deji Adeyanju, describing them as disrespectful, baseless, and unbecoming of a supposed lawyer.
Recall that in a press conference held in Abuja, Adeyanju launched personal attacks on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, accusing him of corruption, land grabbing, and betrayal—claims devoid of evidence and contrary to the minister’s efforts to restore order in the FCT through adherence to its master plan.
The FCT Minister’s actions against illegal land grabbers are not only lawful but also necessary to ensure compliance with the Abuja master plan established during the administration of Nasir El-Rufai and approved by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
It is on record that within just ten months of assuming office, Minister Wike has significantly transformed the face of the nation’s capital. For the first time, the FCT is experiencing developmental strides beyond the imagination of many, signaling a new era of accountability and progress under his leadership.
Adeyanju’s accusations reflect a troubling disregard for due process and a penchant for personal attacks rather than constructive discourse. It is particularly disappointing that Adeyanju, who admitted to seeking Wike’s political support in the past, would stoop to insults rather than engage with the facts. His justification for his attacks, including the claim that Wike is only 11 years older than him, ignores cultural norms that call for respect towards elders, particularly those in leadership.
Furthermore, Adeyanju’s activism appears to be politically motivated, with ties to a former Vice President, whose rivalry with Wike is well-documented. Such sponsorship raises serious questions about the objectivity of his criticisms. By resorting to unsubstantiated allegations, Adeyanju risks undermining the credibility of genuine advocacy efforts.
Adeyanju’s remarks about illegal activities in Abuja fail to acknowledge the minister’s commitment to addressing these issues and relocating displaced individuals to alternative sites. His attacks on Wike’s character rather than the policies being implemented are both uncivilized and embarrassing to the legal profession. The Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence call on the Nigerian Law School to ensure stricter character assessments for future lawyers, as Adeyanju’s behavior reflects poorly on the legal community.
The accusations regarding Wike’s involvement in the Rivers State political dispute and allegations of betrayal during the 2023 general election are equally baseless. Wike’s right to support any candidate of his choice is constitutionally guaranteed, and his political decisions should not be misconstrued as betrayals. Similarly, the dispute between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State Assembly is a legal matter in which Wike is not a party. Adeyanju’s statements display a lack of understanding of both political dynamics and legal principles.
It is evident that Adeyanju’s outburst is fueled by frustration over his failed political ambitions rather than genuine concern for governance. His attempts to paint Wike’s leadership with a negative brush are unfounded and unconvincing. Wike’s actions, including the relocation of displaced individuals, reflect a commitment to development with compassion.
In a statement signed by the Chairman, Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence Abuja chapter, Hon Ogah Mark and the forum’s National Coordinator, Chief Haruna Bature, they urged Deji Adeyanju to reconsider his approach and adopt a more respectful and constructive tone in his advocacy.
“Insulting elders and public officials only serves to undermine the causes he claims to champion. The FCT Minister’s efforts to uphold the law and restore order in Abuja deserve commendation, not baseless criticism.
In a democratic society, constructive criticism is not only welcome but essential to good governance. However, personal attacks and unsubstantiated allegations serve no purpose other than to create unnecessary division and discord. The Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence stand firmly in support of Minister Wike’s commitment to restoring order and adhering to the Abuja master plan, emphasizing the importance of unity, respect, and responsibility in public discourse.
Adeyanju’s failure to provide evidence for his claims against Wike, particularly accusations of corruption and illegal land allocations, further discredits his position. The public deserves facts and clarity, not baseless rhetoric aimed at tarnishing the reputation of a leader actively working to bring development and accountability to the FCT.
We urge all stakeholders and citizens to recognize and support the positive strides being made by the FCT Minister in ensuring a well-structured, lawful, and equitable administration of the Federal Capital Territory. It is only through collaboration and mutual respect that the vision for a prosperous FCT can be realized”.
