Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado, has called on President Bola Tinubu to address the controversial remarks made by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Kemepado expressed concern over Wike’s recent comments, which he described as reckless and disrespectful, particularly towards the Ijaw ethnic group. He noted that Wike’s statements could harm the president’s chances in the 2027 presidential election, as they alienate communities that feel disrespected.
Speaking on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Kemepado stressed that public officeholders must exercise caution in their statements, especially when addressing the ancestry or identity of any group in Nigeria. He warned that Wike’s approach could deter voters and reduce support for the president.
His remarks come after Wike referred to the Ijaws as a minority group, sparking outrage among the Ijaw Nation. Members of the ethnic group condemned Wike for allegedly disrespecting their late leader, Edwin Clark, and associating them with criminality.
Kemepado questioned the political strategy behind Wike’s comments, saying, “Nobody gets more votes for the president by insulting the people. If anybody serving the president goes about insulting people everywhere, is that how to woo more votes for the president?”
The commissioner also defended Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri’s recent directive to prohibit political rallies in the state, saying the move was necessary to maintain peace. He dismissed allegations that the governor was afraid of a state of emergency being imposed on Bayelsa, clarifying that the decision aimed to prevent political unrest linked to rallies planned by groups loyal to Wike.
Kemepado emphasized that Governor Diri is committed to upholding peace and stability in Bayelsa, stating, “Governor Diri is afraid of nothing. We have a responsibility to provide governance, and one of the things we have achieved is peace.”
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