The Northern Youth Assembly (NYA), also known as Majalisar Matasan Arewa, has expressed deep disappointment over what it described as the uncivil and unacceptable public behaviour of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following a viral video showing the minister confronting a young military officer in Abuja.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, the coalition of young progressive voices across the 19 Northern states said the incident represents “a disturbing pattern of arrogance, abuse of power, and disregard for decorum” by a public official expected to embody humility and responsible leadership.
According to the group, the public humiliation of a military officer lawfully carrying out his duty “is not only unethical but also an affront to the Nigerian public service and millions of young citizens who look up to leaders for inspiration.”
“Such behaviour is unbecoming of a serving minister in an administration that has promised renewed hope, inclusiveness, and professionalism in governance,” the statement read.
The Assembly alleged that the incident was consistent with previous instances of misconduct by the FCT Minister, including reports of verbal intimidation of subordinates, politicisation of administrative duties, confrontations with political stakeholders, and concerns over the transparency of recent demolitions and property allocations within the FCT.
The statement added that leadership in modern Nigeria must reflect maturity, restraint, and respect for due process not “arrogance and self-aggrandisement.”
“His conduct disrespects uniformed institutions of the state and undermines the principles of accountability and civility that sustain democracy,” the group said.
The NYA therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently review the continued tenure of Nyesom Wike as FCT Minister, saying such action would send a strong message that impunity and misuse of public office will not be tolerated.
“Nigeria deserves leaders who uplift institutions, not those who embarrass them; who inspire the youth, not those who intimidate them,” the Assembly stated.