Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has drawn widespread attention and criticism following a fiery speech in which he defended the recent renaming of the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja, after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The renaming, which was announced earlier this week, has ignited a heated public debate across political and civic circles, with critics arguing that such a move undermines institutional neutrality and historical preservation. Supporters of the decision, however, have praised it as a tribute to Tinubu’s role in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, Wike lashed out at opponents of the decision, delivering remarks that many have described as “uncouth” and “provocative. “If you want to die, go and die,” Wike said, addressing critics. “I have land to bury you.”
The statement has been widely circulated on social media, prompting sharp reactions from citizens, human rights organizations, and political commentators, many of whom have called for a retraction and public apology.
In defense of the renaming, Wike asserted that the decision was in recognition of President Tinubu’s "unparalleled contributions to Nigeria’s political stability and national development." He further claimed that those opposed to the move were driven by “petty politics and manufactured outrage.”
Opposition parties and civic groups have condemned both the decision to rename the ICC and Wike’s remarks. The Human Rights and Civic Responsibility Forum (HRCRF) called the statement "reckless and unbecoming of a public official," urging the presidency to intervene and demand more respectful discourse from its appointees.