The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a firm demand for the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to step aside from office to allow for an independent investigation into what it described as grave allegations of corruption and financial misconduct. The call follows credible reports of extensive property acquisitions in the United States, raising fresh concerns over accountability in public office.
In a press statement signed by its National President, Comrade Isah Abubakar, the NYCN reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, particularly its anti-corruption drive. However, the group warned that the fight against corruption would lose credibility if individuals facing serious allegations are permitted to remain in sensitive positions of government.
“President Tinubu must set a standard for his cabinet by ensuring that ministers entrusted with public funds maintain the highest level of transparency,” Abubakar stated. “The reports of property acquisitions in the U.S. by a sitting minister raise troubling questions about the source of such wealth.”
The NYCN cited a public petition filed with the Office of the Attorney General of Florida, alleging that Wike laundered public funds to purchase properties in Winter Springs, Florida, which were reportedly traced to him and his family. The group also referenced ongoing legal actions initiated by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) against Wike for alleged failure to account for trillions of naira in FAAC allocations and billions of naira in loans during his tenure as Rivers State Governor.
“These allegations are not trivial and cannot be dismissed as mere political noise,” Abubakar stressed. “They demand a thorough and transparent investigation. For that to happen, Mr. Wike must step aside to avoid compromising the integrity of the process.”
The Council emphasized that its demand does not amount to a declaration of guilt but is a necessary safeguard to protect the credibility of governance and reinforce the administration’s commitment to accountability.
The NYCN urged President Tinubu to act swiftly to ensure that the “Renewed Hope” agenda delivers real change and restores public confidence in leadership.
Signed:
Comr. Isah Abubakar
National President, Northern Youth Council of Nigeria
22nd September 2025
