By Remi Johnson
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory , FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to hold political parties and candidates accountable for inflammatory campaign rhetoric.
Wike made the call while criticising the alleged remarks by former Minister of Transportation and African Democratic Congress, ADC, chieftain, Rotimi Amaechi, against President Bola Tinubu and his supporters.
The minister urged INEC to take action against politicians who allegedly insult opponents and make statements capable of inflaming public sentiments, arguing that candidates seeking public office should be held to standards of responsible political communication.
He expressed displeasure over reports that Amaechi described people who vote for Tinubu as thieves and mad people, saying such remarks were unbecoming of a politician aspiring to occupy the nation’s highest political offices.
According to Wike, political campaigns should be centred on what candidates intend to do for Nigerians rather than attacks on individuals or their supporters.
“We have been told to go on campaign based on issues, what are you going to do for the people? Not on attacking personality, not on insulting individuals,” Wike said.
He accused the media of applying different standards when reporting allegations against opposition politicians and those against members of the ruling party.
The FCT minister warned that inflammatory campaign rhetoric could heighten political tensions, particularly in Rivers State, where he said Amaechi might face resistance from supporters of Tinubu if he continued making such statements.
According to Wike, “Amaechi says those who vote for President are madmen and women.If he continues this line, it will be difficult for him to campaign in Rivers. “
He insisted that INEC and security agencies should not ignore conduct capable of undermining peaceful political engagement.
On security concerns in the FCT, Wike also disclosed that the administration had directed its Department of Development Control, working with security agencies, to remove unauthorised businesses and activities reportedly springing up in parts of the territory.
He specifically mentioned attempts to establish beer parlours and motor parks in areas stretching from Gwagwalada to Asokoro, stating that the operators had not obtained the necessary approvals.
The minister said the administration would not allow such unauthorised activities to continue, warning that they could create security challenges if left unchecked.