Northerners under the aegis of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) have condemned the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his recent vow to set fires in Bauchi State and other parts of Northern Nigeria.

The group described Wike’s comments as “bandit-like outbursts” that reflect a pattern of behaviour seen throughout his political career.

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG expressed deep concern and disappointment that an individual with such conduct holds a significant position in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The group stressed that Wike’s remarks were not just an attack on Bauchi State but also a direct threat to the peace and stability of Northern Nigeria.

The CNG warned that they do not take Wike’s threats lightly and are fully prepared to confront him or anyone who believes they can destabilize the Northern region. The group criticized Wike’s appointment to a high-ranking position within the federal government, calling it a “tragedy for Nigeria.”

The coalition urged President Tinubu to reconsider the inclusion of individuals who display such “volatile and unrefined” attitudes in his government, arguing that the nation deserves leaders committed to unity and peace rather than those who engage in divisive rhetoric.

Recall that Wike had during the state Congress at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat in Port Harcourt threatened to “put fire” in the states of governors who oppose him.

He said, “Let me assure all of you, not while we live will anybody take away the structure of PDP from us. But let me tell people, I hear some governors who say they will take over the structure and give back to somebody.

“I pity those governors because I will put fire in their states. When God has given you peace, you say you don’t want peace – anything you see you take.

“Because I heard they got some money from a signature bonus, and so their heads are getting big that you will put a hand in my own state. Prepare because I have the capacity to also do the same thing in your own state.

“Whether you are from Bauchi, I don’t give a damn, whichever state you are from, as far as I know, that you are trying to put yourself in Rivers State, your hand will get burnt, and you will never sleep in your state.”