Don't politize kidnappings - Wike

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Don't politize kidnappings - Wike

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has urged Nigerians not to politicise kidnappings, stressing that insecurity should be treated as a national concern rather than a political tool.

His remarks came amid protests by teachers following the abduction of students and educators in Oyo State.

The warning was issued on June 2, 2026, in Abuja, when members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Wing staged a protest at the Federal Capital Territory Administration Secretariat. The demonstration was triggered by the killing of Michael Oyedokun, a teacher abducted alongside colleagues and students from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State.

Wike acknowledged the gravity of the situation and assured that the Federal Government and security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims. He expressed confidence in their ability to secure the safe release of the abducted teachers and students. Importantly, he cautioned against turning such tragedies into political battles, noting that kidnappings have occurred in other states without sparking similar protests in Abuja. He questioned why the Oyo incident was treated differently, insisting that all abductions deserve equal concern regardless of location.

The protest was part of a nationwide solidarity action directed by the NUT’s national leadership. According to Abdullahi Shafa, Chairman of the NUT in the FCT, the demonstration aimed to condemn the killing and abduction, while demanding urgent government intervention.

He described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, emphasizing that teachers should not be subjected to violence while performing their duties.

Wike’s remarks highlight a critical tension in Nigeria’s security discourse: the balance between public outrage and political exploitation. His stance suggests that while protests are legitimate expressions of concern, framing them in partisan terms risks undermining collective efforts to address insecurity.

The emphasis on unity and depoliticisation reflects a broader call for Nigerians to treat kidnappings as a shared national crisis rather than a political weapon.

The message “Don’t politicise kidnappings” underscores Wike’s appeal for solidarity in tackling Nigeria’s insecurity challenges. By urging restraint in political framing, he seeks to ensure that the focus remains on rescuing victims and strengthening national security responses.