The Arewa Youths For Peaceful Coexistence has condemned Niger Delta militant leader, Asari Dokubo over what they described as his “unwarranted and un-cultured” attacks on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The group, led by its National President, Bature Haruna and FCT Chapter Coordinator, Hon. Ambassador Mark Okpanachi Ogah, at a press conference, said it has become necessary to address the “malicious and baseless threats” issued by Asari Dokubo, whose comments appear to be rooted in self-serving motives and a desire for undue relevance.”
It stressed that Dokubo’s recent outburst against the FCT Minister “is not only disrespectful but also a blatant attempt to undermine the achievements and focus of a respected statesman who has demonstrated uncommon character and competence in governance.”
The group noted that Asari Dokubo is not a state actor and has no jurisdiction to interfere in matters beyond his remit, particularly issues pertaining to Rivers State. “His involvement and commentary are not only unwarranted but also highlight his lack of authority to address matters where he wields no legitimate power.
“Asari Dokubo’s history further reveals his opposition to the emergence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the PDP candidate in the last governorship election in Rivers State. Despite Asari’s stance, Wike, in his wisdom and selflessness, supported Fubara’s candidacy and ensured his emergence as his successor.
“Today, individuals like Asari Dokubo, along with other political opportunists, are attempting to discredit Wike’s remarkable contributions to the state and the nation,” the group added.
They noted that it is evident that Wike remains unperturbed by these distractions, adding that the Minister is firmly focused on revolutionising the FCT where he is implementing transformative policies and projects that have earned him nationwide respect.
The group further described Dokubo’s threats as direct affront to a leader who has paid his dues through legitimate and exemplary service to his region, the South-South, and the nation at large.
The Arewa youth group further said that as Governor of Rivers State, Wike delivered remarkable projects that placed Rivers on a developmental trajectory.
“Now, as the FCT Minister, his leadership has earned the recognition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who recently described him as “My best Minister.”
“It is on record that Asari Dokubo has, over the years, used intimidation, threats, and blackmail to enrich himself. He has leveraged the natural resources of the Niger Delta to advance personal interests while failing to genuinely contribute to the growth and development of his people. His current frustrations stem from the President’s refusal to grant him control over the security of the nation’s oil pipelines—a position he has long coveted for financial gain”, the group said.
They also advised the militant leader to desist from verbal attacks and what they described as baseless threats against the FCT Minister, noting that Nigeria is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law where no individual is above this law.
“We call on the relevant security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Police Force, to caution Asari Dokubo against any further threats or insults to government officials.”
The group expressed full supports for the efforts of Wike in transforming the FCT and contributing to national development. “We will not allow individuals like Asari Dokubo, who are primarily concerned with political clout chasing, to distract the Minister from his critical responsibilities.
“The Minister has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to good governance, and we are confident that he will remain focused on delivering results for the benefit of the FCT and Nigeria.
“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians to stand in support of leaders who prioritise national unity and progress over personal interests,” the group added.