PANDEF Condemns Sheikh Gumi’s Comments on Minister Nyesom Wike
Controversial Cleric Sheikh Gumi’s Accusations Against Minister Wike
PANDEF Responds to Baseless Accusations Against Niger Delta Region
Abuja’s Development and Minister Wike’s Appointment – PANDEF’s Perspective
Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s recent comments regarding Minister Nyesom Wike have drawn strong condemnation from the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
In a 14-minute video posted on his Facebook page, Sheikh Gumi labeled Wike as “Satan” for his collaboration with Israel on security matters.
He also made provocative remarks about entrusting national security to Christians and Southerners.
PANDEF’s response to Sheikh Gumi’s comments is a clear rejection of the baseless accusations made against Minister Wike.
The forum emphasizes that Abuja is the capital of Nigeria, not a sectional capital as portrayed by Gumi.
They point out that the development of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has been funded primarily by the oil and gas resources of the Niger Delta region, where Nyesom Wike hails from.
This historical fact highlights the contribution of the Niger Delta region to the growth of the FCT, underscoring its role as a national capital belonging to all Nigerians.
The statement from PANDEF also sheds light on the history of Abuja’s development, where crude oil was used as a form of payment to contractors in constructing infrastructure, including the Aso Rock Villa.
During this period, there was no emphasis on the ethnic or regional ownership of Abuja.
The forum points to the Kaiama Declaration in 1998 and subsequent crises in the Niger Delta region as a response to these disparities, reflecting the frustration of Niger Delta youths.
PANDEF expresses its disappointment with Sheikh Gumi’s divisive rhetoric, especially at a time when national unity and stability should be a priority for all Nigerians.
The forum finds it unacceptable that a cleric would engage in promoting parochialism and discord, undermining efforts to foster harmony in the country.
The statement emphasizes that the appointment of the Minister of the FCT should not be based on regional or religious criteria but on merit and competence.
Lastly, PANDEF provides a historical context by highlighting that Nyesom Wike is only the second Southerner to be appointed as the Minister of the FCT in the 47 years since its creation.
This fact underscores the need for inclusivity and fair representation in government appointments.
The forum recalls that a Northern figure, Musa Yar’Adua, served as the Minister of Lagos Affairs during the First Republic, demonstrating that such appointments have occurred in the past without controversy.
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