The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended his comments on the recent kidnapping of teachers and students in Oyo State, saying he has no intention of withdrawing or changing his position.
In a video shared by Channels TV, during an inspection of projects to mark the third anniversary of the Bola Tinubu administration, Wike addressed criticism that followed his remarks to protesting teachers regarding the abduction incident.
According to the minister, his concern was that issues of insecurity should not be turned into political arguments. He maintained that his comments were not meant to dismiss the seriousness of the security challenges facing the country.
Wike said everyone is worried about insecurity and acknowledged that such incidents are unfortunate. However, he argued that some people only speak out after an incident has occurred, instead of raising concerns earlier when warning signs may have been present.
The minister stressed that he does not make statements simply to gain public approval and insisted that he always says what he believes is right.
He further stated that he stands firmly by his remarks and will not retract them despite the criticism. Wike added that anyone dissatisfied with his position is free to take whatever action they consider appropriate.
In his words, “I’m not going to retract, I’m not going to withdraw anything, what I said I stand by it, if anybody’s not happy, you take any action you want to take.
Watch the video from 1.59 to 2.06.
