BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has faulted the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over remarks allegedly made during the controversy surrounding land administration issues at Jabi Lake, warning that political authority must not be used to disrespect God or offend religious sensibilities.
The association said although public officials possess constitutional powers to administer land and enforce government policies, such authority must be exercised with humility, restraint and sensitivity to the beliefs of citizens.
The reaction followed widespread criticism trailing comments attributed to Wike after a female cleric reportedly knelt publicly before the minister, pleading with him to reconsider aspects of a proposed development around Jabi Lake in Abuja.
Wike, while responding to the emotional appeal, was quoted as saying that even if “God comes down,” he would not bow to pressure, a remark that has continued to spark outrage among some Christian groups and religious leaders.
In a statement issued in Kaduna on Thursday, NCA chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, urged the minister to reflect on the concerns raised by Nigerians, apologise to those offended and embrace humility before God and the people.
Hayab noted that leaders must recognise the weight of their public utterances, stressing that statements made by persons in authority should promote peace, unity and mutual respect in a multi-religious society such as Nigeria.
“Political office is temporary and should be handled with humility. No leader should allow power to create the impression that they are beyond accountability to God or the people they serve”.
“As a Christian who professes Christ, the Holy Scriptures admonish believers that their words must be seasoned with grace and guided by wisdom.”
The association further added that the minister could have politely declined the woman’s plea while calmly explaining the legal basis for government’s position without making comments capable of being interpreted as insulting to God or offensive to believers.
NCA maintained that its intervention was not politically motivated but driven by moral and faith-based concerns aimed at promoting respect for religion and responsible public conduct.
The association also urged political office holders across the country to exercise caution in their public communication and avoid statements capable of escalating tension or provoking unnecessary controversy.
The controversy erupted amid growing public debate over land administration and development activities around Jabi Lake, one of the prominent recreational districts in the FCT.
ENDS
