Wike has no moral authority to lecture Obi on national unity – NDC

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, over his comments on its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, saying he lacks the moral authority to lecture others on national unity.

The party accused Wike of contributing to political divisions and instability through his political activities, particularly in Rivers State.

The NDC spokesperson for the National Campaign Council, Dr Chiogo Constance Ikokwu said this in a statement in response to Wike’s criticism of Obi over his action during the singing of the national anthem.

Wike had accused Obi of disrespecting Nigeria by remaining seated while the current national anthem was being sung at a town hall meeting in Lagos, but standing when the old national anthem was rendered.

He described the action as lawless and alleged that it showed Obi did not believe in Nigeria.

However, the NDC said Wike should examine his own political record before questioning Obi’s commitment to national unity.

“Minister Wike needs to look in the mirror. It is extraordinary that someone whose political conduct in and outside Rivers State has been widely associated with deep divisions, political upheaval and prolonged instability can suddenly appoint himself the moral referee of Nigerian politics,” Ikokwu said.

The party also accused the minister of contributing to political controversies surrounding the 2023 presidential election in Rivers State and engaging in political manoeuvring across party lines.

The party argued that Wike was in no position to preach political tolerance, unity and responsible leadership to others without first addressing issues within his own political camp.

“The singing of the old national anthem in Lagos was spontaneous and initiated by the people themselves. It was neither planned nor organised by anyone. If you watch another part of the video, you will also see that they went on to sing the current national anthem.

“Wike should stop distracting Nigerians with the anthem issue and focus on the failures of the government he is trying so hard to defend. What matters to Nigerians ahead of this election is the economy and the crippling hardship inflicted by the APC government,” the statement said.

The party maintained that economic hardship and the state of the economy should take priority in discussions ahead of the January 16, 2027, election.