The youth wing of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organization of the South-South, has warned that the actions of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, could undermine President Bola Tinubu’s political support in the Niger Delta ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press conference, on Saturday in Abuja, PANDEF’s National Youth Leader, Donben Donyegha, expressed disappointment over Wike’s recent remarks, describing them as disrespectful to Niger Delta leaders and detrimental to political stability in the region.
“Wike has insulted those who once stood by him. His presence in this administration is a liability, and his conduct threatens President Tinubu’s political prospects in 2027. The South-South will be difficult for the president to win due to the damage Wike has already done,” Donyegha said.
He faulted Wike’s alleged disparaging statements against the Ijaw nation and leaders of PANDEF, giving the minister a 48-hour ultimatum to retract his comments and apologize.
“If he fails to apologize within 48 hours, we will take necessary actions. The Niger Delta and the entire South-South region stand united against his recklessness,” Donyegha warned.
He also faulted Wike for allegedly disrespecting the late elder statesman and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark, even in death.
“It is painful that Wike would show such utter disrespect to our late leader, Chief Edwin Clark, even before his burial,” he added.
The outrage follows Wike’s recent media chat, where he reportedly described PANDEF as “the worst organization anybody can rely on” and labeled its Board of Trustees members as “political merchants.”
PANDEF’s Deputy National Youth Leader, Comrade Mathew Dighi, reaffirmed the group’s stance, emphasizing that respect and accountability must be upheld in leadership.
“As youths of the Niger Delta, we will not accept any form of disrespect toward our leaders. Leadership should be about fostering unity, not causing division,” Dighi stated.
Similarly, PANDEF’s Students Youth Coordinator, Hon. Prince Victor, called for a review of Wike’s political conduct, particularly his recent comments on the crisis in Rivers State.
The youth leaders accused Wike of having a history of making derogatory remarks about traditional rulers and political figures in the Niger Delta.
They cited an instance during his tenure as Rivers State governor when he allegedly insulted traditional rulers, telling one of them that he looked like Uthman Dan Fodio.
The group also criticized Wike’s response to a recent visit by prominent Niger Delta leaders to President Tinubu.
The delegation had sought to facilitate peace in the region, particularly concerning the political crisis in Rivers State.
PANDEF urged President Tinubu to reassess Wike’s role in his administration, warning that his continued presence could fuel political instability.
“Our leaders met with Mr. President to ensure peace in the Niger Delta, particularly in Rivers State. However, Wike’s response to their visit was highly disrespectful. We urge President Tinubu to take action and address this matter,” the group stated.
