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By: Manoah Kikekon
Youth Commissioner Alfred Kemepado Says Wike’s Disrespect Could Cost Tinubu 2027 Votes, Slams Ijaw Insults
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| Alfred Kemepado, Bayelsa State’s Commissioner for Youths Development [Photo Credit: Vanguard] |
Alfred Kemepado, Bayelsa State’s Commissioner for Youths Development, has urged President Bola Tinubu to address the controversial statements made by his appointee, Nyesom Wike.
The commissioner warned that Wike’s constant disrespect toward individuals and communities could alienate potential voters, hurting Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 presidential election.
He emphasized that public officials must exercise caution in their remarks, stressing that no leader should belittle or insult the heritage of any ethnic group in Nigeria.
Kemepado’s remarks followed Wike’s contentious description of the Ijaw people as a "minority group," sparking outrage across the Ijaw Nation. Many criticized the FCT Minister for allegedly disparaging their late leader, Edwin Clark, and linking the ethnic group to criminal activities.
During an appearance on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Kemepado insisted that Tinubu should not overlook Wike’s inflammatory comments.
“Insulting people doesn’t win votes for the president,” he stated. “If a presidential appointee keeps offending communities, how will they support Tinubu in the next election? This isn’t about the PDP—it’s about the presidency allowing such behavior.”
The commissioner also defended Governor Douye Diri’s ban on political rallies in Bayelsa, explaining that the decision was necessary to prevent unrest. He dismissed claims that the governor feared a state of emergency like neighboring Rivers State.
“Governor Diri is fearless. Our priority is maintaining peace, and we won’t allow any event that threatens Bayelsa’s stability,” Kemepado asserted.