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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has petitioned the United States Government through its Embassy in Abuja, urging the imposition of targeted sanctions on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over alleged actions undermining democratic governance in Nigeria.
In its communication to the U.S. Ambassador, the civil rights group outlined allegations including electoral misconduct, subversion of constituted authority, sponsorship of political crises, and erosion of judicial independence. It warned that “electoral democracy is under threat in Nigeria,” citing “the constriction of political space, the demonisation of dissent, sponsored crises in opposition parties, and mass defections orchestrated through enticement and coercion” as troubling trends.
The petition was signed by Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, National Coordinator of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).
HURIWA called on U.S. authorities to review the allegations and, where credible, impose measures such as visa restrictions and other diplomatic actions to deter further democratic backsliding.
The group noted that while Nigeria’s democracy has remained relatively resilient since 1999, it is increasingly vulnerable to pressures that could undermine its stability. It warned that any derailment of democracy in Africa’s most populous nation could have far-reaching implications for regional stability and global democratic norms.
Central to the petition are allegations linked to Wike’s tenure as Governor of Rivers State between 2015 and 2023. HURIWA referenced reported incidents during the 2019 and 2023 elections, including claims of violence, intimidation of opposition figures, and manipulation of political processes.
“In the 2023 elections in Rivers State, opposition candidates were intimidated, assaulted, and systematically excluded, while the then Governor boasted of purchasing nomination forms for all candidates in order to impose a predetermined outcome. Aspirants were arrested, detained, and disqualified under questionable circumstances. Furthermore, for the first time in Nigeria’s history, a major party candidate was effectively barred from campaigning. The elections were marred by widespread violence, manipulated results, and actions allegedly carried out with the active complicity of security agencies and electoral officials, all designed to subvert the will of the people,” HURIWA stated.
The organisation also accused Wike of maintaining significant influence over political developments in Rivers State after leaving office, particularly in relation to the current governor, Siminalayi Fubara. It argued that such influence undermines democratic institutions and weakens the autonomy of elected officials.
HURIWA cited statements attributed to Wike, noting that he had “boasted severally that if the Governor does not keep to the agreement, the Governor will be impeached,” describing such remarks as a direct affront to democratic norms.
The petition further referenced Wike’s December 2025 visits to local government areas in Rivers State, during which he reportedly criticised Governor Fubara. According to HURIWA, “at virtually every stop, he used the platform to criticise the Governor and pour invectives on the person and office of Siminalayi Fubara.”
The group also raised concerns about alleged efforts to destabilise the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including statements suggesting the party should not field a presidential candidate in 2027. It argued that such actions threaten political pluralism and competitive democracy.
On judicial independence, HURIWA pointed to concerns raised by legal experts, including Chidi Odinkalu, regarding perceived political influence in court decisions involving intra-party disputes. While acknowledging that these issues remain part of ongoing public debate, the group called for closer scrutiny to protect the integrity of the judiciary.
HURIWA also referenced a recent controversy involving the FCT Minister during a Channels Television programme, where Wike remarked that he would have “shot” the screen while reacting to the interviewer’s style. Although he later clarified that the comment was not meant literally, the group said the remark has drawn widespread criticism.
Describing the statement as unacceptable, HURIWA warned it contributes to a climate of intimidation against journalists. It aligned with concerns raised by the Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN), which has demanded a retraction and apology, warning of a possible boycott of the Minister’s media engagements.
The organisation further criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing his administration of failing to caution or restrain the FCT Minister, and warned that such inaction could signal tolerance for conduct that undermines democratic accountability and press freedom.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s strategic relationship with the United States, HURIWA stressed that its petition is not a call for interference but an appeal for principled diplomatic engagement in defence of democratic values.
It emphasised Nigeria’s global and regional importance, warning that “if Nigeria’s democracy derails, the negative impact on the sub-region, the continent, and the world will be significant.”
“The deployment of power must always be subject to accountability,” the group added, cautioning against any drift toward authoritarianism.
HURIWA concluded by urging U.S. authorities to urgently consider its petition and expressed readiness to provide additional information to support any review process.