Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has sharply criticised the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for calling on former US President Donald Trump to “save Nigeria’s democracy,” describing the comment as reckless and unbecoming of a national leader.
Wike condemned the statement during a public address, questioning why the party chairman would appeal to a foreign political figure while allegedly refusing to respect court judgments at home. He argued that democracy cannot be strengthened by “running abroad for rescue” while ignoring the rule of law domestically.
The governor also expressed concern over the chairman’s allegation that the Nigerian government was carrying out a genocide against Christians. Wike said such a weighty claim could incite division and should not be made casually by political leaders.
He further criticised security agencies for failing to question the party chairman over the inflammatory remarks, adding that any citizen who made similar claims would have been swiftly invited for interrogation.
According to Wike, political leaders must show restraint and responsibility, especially during periods of heightened political tension. He warned that resorting to sensational claims only deepens the country’s polarisation.
The governor stressed that democracy in Nigeria must be defended through institutions, reforms, and respect for court orders—not through appeals to foreign politicians. He urged political actors to focus on issues that strengthen the nation rather than “grandstanding for international attention.”
Wike’s comments have sparked fresh debate within political circles, raising questions about the limits of political rhetoric, the responsibility of party leaders, and the extent of global influence on Nigeria’s domestic politics.
