Say Politics Is Not a Licence to Disrespect God
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, warning that political authority must never be used as a platform for arrogance or statements capable of undermining respect for God and public sensibilities.
The association was reacting to recent comments attributed to Wike during the controversy surrounding the proposed development and land administration at Jabi Lake in Abuja, where a female cleric reportedly knelt publicly to plead with the minister to reconsider the project. The incident generated widespread public reactions.
Wike, while responding to the emotional appeal, was reported to have stated that even if “God comes down,” he would not yield to pressure — a remark that sparked criticism from sections of the Christian community.
In a statement issued to journalists in Kaduna on Thursday and signed by the NCA Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association advised the minister to reflect on the concerns raised, apologise to Nigerians offended by the statement, and return to a posture of humility before God and the people.
Rev. Hayab reminded Wike that, as a Christian who professes Christ, the Holy Scriptures admonish believers to speak with grace, wisdom, and restraint.
He stated that the Bible teaches that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks,” stressing that leaders bear a greater responsibility to ensure that their utterances promote peace, unity, and mutual respect in a diverse society.
According to the association, while government has the legal authority to manage land and enforce planning regulations, such powers must be exercised with restraint, civility, and sensitivity, especially in matters touching on religion.
The group maintained that the minister could have politely declined the appeal made by the kneeling woman and calmly explained the legal framework guiding land administration in Abuja without making comments capable of being interpreted as offensive to believers.
The association stressed that political office is temporary and should be exercised with humility, warning that no leader should create the impression of being above accountability to God or the people.
It further clarified that its position was not politically motivated but a moral and faith-based intervention, adding that it would continue to speak out whenever any individual, regardless of status, is perceived to have disrespected the Christian faith or any other belief system.
“We are speaking out against Wike just as we will speak out against anyone who disrespects our faith,” the statement added.
The body also called on public office holders across the country to exercise restraint in their communication, show sensitivity to religious concerns, and use their positions to promote unity, peace, and national cohesion rather than division and controversy.
