By Our Correspondent
National News – Northern Christian leaders have criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over remarks linked to the ongoing controversy surrounding land administration and development activities at Jabi Lake in Abuja.
The criticism followed public outrage after a female cleric reportedly knelt before the minister to appeal against aspects of the proposed project.
The Northern Christian Association said Wike’s reaction to the emotional plea raised concerns among believers and members of the public.
According to the group, the minister allegedly stated that even if “God comes down,” he would not reverse the government’s decision on the matter.
The statement has since triggered debate across Nigeria, with many questioning the tone and timing of the comment.
Speaking in Kaduna on Thursday, the Chairman of the association, Rev. Joseph Hayab, urged the FCT minister to reflect on the reactions generated by the statement and apologise to Nigerians who felt offended.
Hayab stressed that public officials must exercise caution in their speeches because their words can either unite or divide citizens in a multi-religious country.
The association explained that while government authorities possess constitutional powers to manage land and enforce policies, such powers should be exercised with humility, wisdom and respect for religious values.
It added that the minister could have politely rejected the woman’s plea without making comments perceived as disrespectful to God or Christianity.
The group also clarified that its criticism was not politically motivated but aimed at encouraging responsible public conduct among political leaders.
It warned office holders against making statements capable of provoking tension or hurting religious sentiments.
The controversy surrounding Jabi Lake development gained national attention after videos surfaced online showing the cleric kneeling publicly before Wike during a government engagement in Abuja.
While some Nigerians defended the minister’s firmness on policy matters, others condemned the remarks as insensitive and inappropriate.
