Islamic scholar and civil society advocate Usman Bugaje has criticised Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, alleging that the minister acts as though he is above the law while calling for stronger accountability in public office.
Speaking during an interview published on SYMFONI’s official YouTube channel on Sunday, July 19, 2026, Bugaje discussed governance, democratic institutions, and the need to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour.
He argued that elected and appointed officials must remain accountable to the public, warning that allowing those in power to operate without consequences weakens public trust and confidence in democratic institutions.
Referring to Wike, Bugaje said, “Take the FCT Minister, for example. He seems to be above the law and is doing almost anything he really wants. But for that Navy officer, I hope he is still in the service, who really challenged him.”
Bugaje said the Navy officer’s decision to publicly confront the minister was a rare example of accountability, adding that stronger institutional oversight and officials willing to uphold the law are essential to protecting democratic values.
He concluded that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive through transparency, accountability, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful civic engagement.
