The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns over the recent conduct of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following the just-concluded FCT Area Council elections. The group has also questioned the apparent silence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding his appointee’s actions.
According to HURIWA, the situation gives the impression that the Minister is exercising an unusual degree of independence, prompting the rights group to ask why an appointed official appears more powerful than the authority who appointed him.
In a statement made on Sunday, February 22, 2026, HURIWA emphasized that in a constitutional democracy, appointees are expected to be accountable to the appointing authority. “The President, as the political head of the FCT, has full oversight over the Minister and should exercise that authority when necessary,” the group said.
The association further remarked on the implications for governance, noting that Nigerians deserve clear leadership and transparency in public office matters. “We don’t know what kind of secret oath both the President and the Minister have sworn that is keeping President Tinubu from decisively controlling his appointees. How can an appointee be much stronger than the appointing authority?” HURIWA questioned.
HURIWA’s statement underscores ongoing concerns about accountability and the need for strong institutional checks in Nigeria’s governance system.