Wike’s Fiery Threat: Does He Realise He Is Playing with Nigeria’s Unity?

BY ISAAC ASABOR*

In Nigeria’s complex tapestry, each of the 36 states plays an important role in maintaining national unity. This is why Nyesom Wike’s recent threat to “set fire” to states whose governors back Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara is not only concerning but also potentially treasonous.

Wike’s declaration, delivered with his characteristic bravado, appears to overlook a fundamental truth: by threatening any state in Nigeria, he is essentially threatening the entire country. The consequences of such reckless rhetoric cannot be overstated. Nigeria’s stability, which is already precarious due to economic and social challenges, does not need to be exacerbated by political leaders making incendiary statements that could spark additional division and unrest.

As a lawyer, Wike should be fully aware of the legal and constitutional ramifications of his rash statements. By threatening to set fire to states that are integral parts of the Nigerian federation, he is attacking more than just isolated entities; he is threatening Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty. Such statements, whether made out of frustration or political manoeuvring, are extremely irresponsible and border on treason.

Nigeria’s constitution is unequivocal about any action or speech that threatens the country’s peace and sovereignty. Wike’s statement thus comes dangerously close to treason. A threat to burn down states, because their governors support Fubara is an assault on Nigeria as a whole.

At this point, the presidency must intervene and call Wike to order. The highest office in the land must remind him that no one, regardless of political status, is above the law or Nigeria’s unity. Wike’s recent actions demonstrate that he is overextending himself in Nigerian politics, attempting to wield influence and power far beyond the scope of his role as FCT Minister.

This is a time for leaders to bring the country together, not divide it. Wike must understand that his words have consequences far beyond the borders of Rivers State or the Federal Capital Territory. The consequences of such threats could be disastrous, setting a dangerous precedent in which political disagreements are resolved through threats of violence rather than dialogue and negotiation.

Nigeria’s democracy is based on the principle of federalism, which allows all 36 states to govern without interference or threats from individuals, no matter how powerful. Wike’s comments violate this principle and should be strongly condemned.

Leaders at all levels must exercise restraint and wisdom when making public statements. The security and unity of Nigeria should be their top priority. Wike, like every other Nigerian leader, needs to be held accountable for his words and actions. His most recent threat is not only reckless but borderline treasonous, endangering the very fabric of the country he once swore to serve and protect. The presidency must not turn a blind eye to this; immediate action is required to reaffirm that Nigeria’s unity is sacred and cannot be compromised by any individual, no matter how powerful.

Without a doubt, the minister’s statement is both alarming and treasonable. Such a statement, especially coming from a high-ranking public official, has far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s national security, political stability, and legal system.

Wike’s statement is particularly concerning given Nigeria’s fragile political landscape and high ethnic and regional tensions. Any call to incite violence, particularly in the context of interstate conflict, has the potential to spiral out of control, resulting in a breakdown of law and order. The Federal Republic of Nigeria’s constitution emphasises the importance of maintaining national unity, peace, and security.

Section 14(2)(b) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) states that “the primary purpose of government shall be the security and welfare of the people.” By threatening to incite violence, Wike appears to be violating this constitutional provision, as such an act could jeopardise the security and welfare of citizens in affected states. This alone could constitute grounds for legal action against him, as it directly violates the duties and responsibilities of any public officer.

Furthermore, his threat could be interpreted as incitement to violence, a serious offence under Nigerian law. According to Section 50(2) of the Criminal Code Act, “any person who by any means whatsoever aids, counsels, or procures the commission of an offence, or who incites any other person to commit an offence, is guilty of the same offence and liable to the same punishment.”

Given that Wike’s statement could be interpreted as inciting governors and supporters to engage in violence, he could face criminal charges under this provision. Furthermore, if such violence results in the destabilisation of the Nigerian state or the overthrow of a duly elected government, it may be considered treason, a capital offence under Nigerian law.

His remarks also raise serious concerns about abuse of authority and political intimidation. As a former governor and current minister, Wike wields considerable power in Nigerian politics. His threat to “set fire” to states that oppose his political interests may be interpreted as an attempt to coerce other political actors into submission, undermining democratic principles.

Section 15(5) of the 1999 Constitution explicitly states that “the State shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuses of authority.” Wike’s statement directly contradicts this constitutional mandate, implying the use of political power for personal gain and retribution. This sets a dangerous precedent for political behaviour in Nigeria, potentially undermining public trust in the political system.

Given these serious implications, the relevant authorities, including the Nigerian judiciary and the National Assembly, must investigate Wike’s alleged statement and take appropriate action. Public officials must be held accountable for their words and actions, especially when they threaten the nation’s peace, security, and unity.

Furthermore, political leaders must exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue rather than using threats of violence. Nigerian democracy can only thrive if its leaders respect the rule of law and work for the greater good rather than pursuing personal vendettas.

To reiterate, Wike’s threat to “set fire” to states whose governors support Siminalayi Fubara is not only dangerous but also potentially treasonable. Such statements undermine Nigeria’s national unity, incite violence, and represent an abuse of political power. The relevant authorities must address this issue immediately and hold public officials accountable for their actions. It is critical for the survival of Nigerian democracy and the rule of law.