Kehinde Fajobi
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, accusing him of displacing poor communities for land acquisition and favouring allies.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju condemned Wike’s policies and leadership style, describing him as authoritarian and intolerant of criticism.
“Our only ‘crime’ is choosing to challenge Wike and constructively criticise some of his detrimental, anti-people policies in the FCT, particularly regarding land-grabbing from the poor for his friends,” Adeyanju stated.
He alleged that Wike often bypasses due process, particularly in demolitions targeting vulnerable communities, calling it “a violation of justice” and a means to criminalise poverty.
Earlier, in an interview on Wednesday, Wike dismissed Adeyanju’s remarks, claiming the lawyer was “jobless.”
Wike recounted, “This young man came to me wanting to be the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, and I said no. He has no job, and that’s why he decided to turn to civil society activism.”
Adeyanju denied Wike’s claims, explaining that his request for the PDP role occurred before he resigned from politics in 2016.
“I resigned from politics eight years ago due to corruption in the system. Wike allegedly claimed I begged him, but this occurred before my resignation. Consultation with party leaders isn’t begging,” he clarified.
Adeyanju accused Wike of betraying political allies, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and Rotimi Amaechi, warning that President Bola Tinubu might face similar treatment.
“Wike has allegedly betrayed many who helped him. He may do the same to President Bola Tinubu, who wisely maintains a cautious distance,” Adeyanju remarked.
He also criticised Wike’s approach to governance, stating, “Whenever challenged, Wike retaliates. He has a god complex.” Adeyanju commended Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara for confronting Wike and urged him to remain firm.
Adeyanju reaffirmed his commitment to activism, saying, “For over three decades, I have risked my life criticising the government. I have faced imprisonment, harassment, and street assaults but remain committed to justice.”
He also called for adherence to legal procedures in land matters, emphasising that bulldozing homes without warning is unjust.
“Everyone deserves due process. Bulldozing homes without legal proceedings criminalises poverty,” he added.
Adeyanju expressed concerns about the judiciary’s independence, cautioning against interference from political figures.
He criticised nepotism and called for reforms to ensure fairness.
He concluded, “Activism comes at a personal cost, but I remain committed to it. Regardless of who is involved, I will continue to advocate for justice. Actions such as property demolitions and favouritism will be accounted for, whether now or later.”