Religious leaders around the nation have been cautioned by Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to be aware of politicians who have extreme ambitions.The guidance was given by Wike during a separate meeting on Wednesday in Abuja with the heads of the Committee of FCT Imams Initiative (CFII), chaired by Dr. Tajudeen Adigun, and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
The minister claimed that politicians driven by a desire for power would stop at nothing to further their own self-interests by dividing the nation.
"Let me advise all of us," stated Wike at the meeting with the CAN national leadership, which was chaired by the Most Rev. Daniel Okoh. You claim not to be politicians, but exercise caution while dealing with them. Politicians that are so eager to gain power should be avoided.
"Be wary of politicians who seem to be limitless in their power." Not everything you come across on social media is accurate. Ask inquiries when you go.
"I am the minister of FCT, and I am sat here. If there is anything you hear that the FCT is trying to accomplish, please do not hesitate to ask. Just as you wrote for this courtesy call, please do not hesitate to ask: Is this what I am hearing correct?
Wike noted, "Those who are unable to confront us in the political arena turn to religious leaders and ask, 'Do you know this man?'"
The Minister also called on religious leaders to spread the word about their support for the nation's political leadership, emphasizing that once a leader is chosen through elections, people should put aside their personal opinions and pray for the leaders to be successful in order for the nation to prosper.
"This nation has a president chosen by God; may he be blessed with success. In an attempt to rectify the incorrect approach, poor decisions are being made. Now is the time to support Nigeria's development rather than to criticize it.
In a similar vein, the minister warned the CFII to steer clear of politicians who were more like angels of division than patriots.
Religious leaders need to exercise caution; they shouldn't allow politicians, the desperate, or those who believe that Nigeria must fall if they are not in power to sell or misrepresent the facts. Wike stated as much.
"This is what you heard; what is the position? Please ask questions if there is anything you are unclear about. However, you are not improving yourself in any significant way if you believe the propaganda put forth by political figures.
"Politics is over, and the president is in office. Now, it is your turn as leaders to pray for God to lead the president, to grant him insight, and to inspire ideas for the future development of the country. "Nigerians have failed if he fails," he declared.
Prior to this, Okoh noted that the CAN leadership had come to his office to offer their unwavering support for the Wike-led government and to offer prayers for its success.
He restated CAN's resolve to keep involving stakeholders and advancing social harmony.
He said that phase one of the center's reconstruction had been completed in May 2023 and pleaded with the minister to grant the contract for the second phase.
In a similar spirit, Adegun, the chairman of CFII, praised Wike as a true Nigerian and promised the initiative's guidance and support for the FCT's expansion, progress, and unification.