The Renewed Hope Movement of Nigeria has called for national attention and an objective investigation into an alleged assassination attempt on Lt. A. M. Yerima, who reportedly had a recent confrontation with Federal Capital Territory Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.
Ambassador Yusuf Kanhu, National Coordinator of the movement, made the statement available in Kaduna on Monday, noting that the incident has sparked political speculation.
“This sudden twist must not be divorced from the larger political climate currently unfolding in the country,” Kanhu said, warning against premature conclusions.
He highlighted that the timing coincides with intensified calls from some northern political actors for the removal of Minister Wike, raising concerns of a coordinated political agenda targeting the FCT leadership.
Kanhu argued that since the start of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, voices opposing Wike’s appointment have framed Abuja leadership as reserved for specific regional and religious groups. He described this mentality as divisive and harmful to national unity.
He further noted that tensions increased following Wike’s engagement with the State of Israel regarding an embassy space in Abuja, with critics portraying the move as a deviation from regional and religious expectations.
The coordinator emphasized that the FCT under Wike has seen significant improvements, including enhanced urban management, infrastructure development, and general order, which some resist due to long-standing opposition to change.
Kanhu urged Nigerians to reject notions of entitlement to FCT leadership and cautioned against attributing the alleged attack to political motives without thorough investigation.
He also linked the unfolding events to broader political dynamics, including the removal of the former Chief of Defence Staff, warning that attempts to target southern Christian leaders could reinforce perceptions of exclusion.
The Renewed Hope Movement called on President Tinubu to ensure that internal political tensions do not escalate and damage Nigeria’s international reputation, referencing recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump and past political crises under former President Goodluck Jonathan.