Government Officials Providing Food to Protesters Face Indictment, Says FCT Minister Nyesom Wike
In a surprising turn of events, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced that government officials caught providing food to protesters will be indicted. This announcement comes amidst widespread protests across Nigeria, ignited by growing discontent over rising hunger and economic hardship.
According to Wike, a hungry man is an angry man, and the government has a duty to provide food to the residents. However, he also emphasized the government’s responsibility to provide infrastructure. During a ceremonial event where he handed over the Staff of Office to four newly coronated chiefs of Karu, Kwali, Pai, and Yaba, Wike acknowledged the protesters who maintained a peaceful stance.
“I want you to continue with that peace process because he who makes peace will, at the end of the day, enjoy the dividends of peace,” Wike stated.
The FCT Minister also revealed that security agencies have identified a senator as one of the sponsors of the protests against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led federal government. Wike said the unnamed senator provided food for the protesters, and at the appropriate time, security agencies will invite the senator to find out how they will be sponsoring this kind of against the government of the day.
The announcement has sparked controversy, with some accusing Wike of attempting to stifle the right to protest. However, the minister has defended his stance, stating that the government is to providing for its citizens while maintaining order and security.
As the country grapples with the ongoing protests, Wike’s call for peace and dialogue reflects an understanding of the urgent need for the government to address the underlying issues of hunger and discontent among the populace. The outcome of these discussions remains to be seen, but the willingness to engage in dialogue is a critical step towards finding common ground in these challenging times.
