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Tag: Wike

  • Wike hails Okowa, Delta Governor over defection to APC

    Wike hails Okowa, Delta Governor over defection to APC

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has commended former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, for supporting President Bola Tinubu.

    He said: “It is another endorsement of the president’s good governance and commitment to the development of the country.”

    In a statement on Wednesday,  by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA), on Public Communications and Social Media,  Lere Olayinka, Wike called on other Nigerians,  who are still sitting on the fence to throw in their support for the President. 

    The Minister described the open endorsement of the President by Ifeanyi Okowa, who was the running mate to Atiku Abubakar,  as; “a vindication of the position I took in 2023, which was based on the interest of a united Nigeria.”

    Read Also; Police detain prime suspects in Niger over vigilante member’s death

    “I commend Dr Okowa and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for this heart-warming decision, which must have been informed by good governance and commitment of President Bola Tinubu to the oneness and development of Nigeria. 

    “That is what I have always told people to come out and say, not when they have problems and begin to run up and down. 

    “They have come out at the right time to show support for the President so that the people of Niger Delta can benefit more from the government, and I commend them.

    “I am particularly happy that what I saw before the 2023 presidential election,  others are now seeing and are joining the Renewed Hope train,” the Minister said.

  • Contract lease: Wike summons top officials, contractor

    Contract lease: Wike summons top officials, contractor

    …monitor projects ahead of Tinubu’s second anniversary

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, summoned some top officials of the Administration as well as the contractor handling the rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), Julius Berger.

    Wike summoned them over reports that a section of the contract was leased to another firm without his knowledge.

    The projects inspected are Julius Berger Plc’s extensive renovation of the ICC, the China Geoengineering Corporation (CGC)’s construction of the access road from Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway) by N16 to Katampe District, and the bridge linking Maitama and Katampe districts.

    The minister was told that the furniture for the conference hall had been sublet to another contractor by the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL).

    The inspection of the projects was ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary commemoration.

    The minister who was satisfied with the quality of work however said; “You would see that we were at the International Conference Centre, the work is going as expected. The only problem which we identified this afternoon has to do with the furniture that will be in the conference hall. I was surprised to hear that there is a different contractor for that, which is unacceptable to us.

    Read Also: I didn’t lie against S/Court, Falana fires back at Wike

    “The job was given to Julius Berger entirely. I cannot have different qualities. We cannot say that the floor up is furnished by Julius Berger and down is furnished by another company. It is not acceptable to me.

    “I have invited Julius Berger, I have invited the Executive Secretary of the FCDA and the MD of the Abuja Investments Company Limited to know who did that, and if anybody is found culpable, of course, I must apply the big stick.

    “Nobody should be a sacred cow. Nobody can do something that you know is not in line with what we have agreed.

    “I am not doubting the quality of work there. What I have said is that the quality of work is generally very fine. How they removed the furnishing of the conference hall from Julius Berger is what I do not know. And so, that is why I summoned the Acting ES, FCDA, and the GMD of Abuja Investments Company Limited and Julius Berger, to come and tell us who did that, and also on whose approval, because I approve and I know the amount of money.

    “So, when they say Abuja Investments is the one who is going to pay for it? I am not going to accept that, and of course, you know, if anything shady went on, you will hear that I have applied the big stick. Nobody will be a sacred cow”, he added.

    Wike expressed optimism that the contractors would meet with specified deadlines, saying security reports available to him indicated that many of them have been working day and night.

    “I believe, by the grace of God, they are meeting up for the second anniversary of Mr President. Quality job done. I am sure those who live within this neighbourhood are happy with what they are seeing now.

    “So, I congratulate them and assure them on our part, we will do all we can to make sure the job is completed on schedule. We have no problem with that”.

  • Tinubu to commission more Abuja rural roads in May – Wike 

    Tinubu to commission more Abuja rural roads in May – Wike 

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike said that President Bola Tinubu will commission several rural roads in FCT to commemorate his second year anniversary in May. 

    Wike disclosed this on Saturday when he conducted a thorough inspection of the ongoing construction of two vital road networks in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).

    The roads inspected were the 10.5-kilometer Kabusa/Ketti road, which connects Kabusa, Pyakasa, and Ketti Districts, and the 9.8-kilometer Kabusa/Takushara road, which links Kabusa, Takushara, and Wasa Districts.

    Speaking with reporters during the inspection, the Minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to extending development beyond the city center to the satellite towns, echoing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s consistent directive.

    He said: “We’ve been to Ketti and the road from Kabusa to Takushara. The emphasis Mr. President has always made is that we should not only concentrate in the cities. We should take development to the satellite towns. You can see how happy the residents were in Ketti in particular, which is a heavily populated area”.

    Wike also acknowledged the crucial role of the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Maikalangu, in bringing the urgent need for these road projects to the attention of the FCT Administration and commended the Chairman for his efforts. 

    He said: “I want to commend the Chairman of AMAC who drew our attention to these two very important roads. But for him, probably we may not have taken our attention to this place”.

    Expressing satisfaction with the progress made by the contractors, the Minister expressed optimism that both roads would be inaugurated by the end of May, coinciding with President Tinubu’s second-year anniversary. 

    He said: “I’m happy with what the contractors are doing and hopefully, by the end of May, these two roads will be inaugurated as part of the second year anniversary of Mr. President. So, we are very happy with what we have seen”.

    Regarding the potential impact that the road projects will have on rural-urban migration, the Minister explained that the improved connectivity would make it unnecessary for people to relocate to the city. 

    Wike said the short travel time to the city, facilitated by the road network, is expected to encourage people to build homes in the areas, offering a more affordable alternative to city living and fostering economic growth in the communities.

    “With this road being done, you don’t need to say let us go and stay in the city. From here to the city is not up to 10 minutes, and that’s what road network brings. It will open up the entire place. You will see people will like to come and build houses here instead of staying in the city that appears to be more expensive.

    “I’m sure that most people will be looking out on how they can have a plot of land in these areas where they can develop so that they will stop paying rent in the city. So, this road will open up the two communities as well as the economy of the place”, he said.

    The Minister also reaffirmed a previous pledge to build schools in the area, stating that this plan remains a priority, pending the passage of the 2025 statutory budget.

    “I remember that when we came here to flag off these projects, I promised them that I will build schools, which is still on my table, and I’m waiting for the passage of the 2025 statutory budget for us to commence. So, I think we are happy, and I know the people are happy,” he said.

    Responding to a request for road construction within the Federal Housing Estate in Lugbe, the Minister clarified that the responsibility for infrastructure within the estate lies with the Federal Housing Authority. 

    He said the focus of the FCT Administration was on developing roads that connect districts and satellite towns, rather than internal estate roads.

     “The estate belongs to the Federal Housing Authority. They should be able to take care of their estate. The roads we should do are roads that will open up the entire city…

    “We have told the Federal Housing estate that that land was allocated to them, and they built the estate and sold to residents. Let us open up the areas that link up to the major cities and the satellite towns before we begin to talk about building roads within estates,” the Minister explained.

    Wike also used the opportunity to extend Easter greetings to all FCT residents, echoing the President’s call for unity and collaboration among Nigerians. 

    He assured residents of the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its promises.

    According to the minister: “Just like what Mr. President has always preached, Nigerians should be united, Nigerians should work together for the interest of Nigerians. So, I use this particular period to wish everybody Happy Easter and be assured that the promises we have made, by the grace of God, we are going to keep them”.

  • Pro-Wike group denies involvement of member in clash with Bayelsa lawmaker

    Pro-Wike group denies involvement of member in clash with Bayelsa lawmaker

    A group loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, The NEW Associates, has denied viral reports that one of its ward coordinators clashed with the Chief Whip of Bayelsa Assembly, Hon Gabriel Ogbara.

    The lead convener of The NEW Associates, George Turnah, along with co-convener and secretary, Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, have stated that the individual involved in the altercation was Pastor Williams Olalaoni, not Pastor Kelvin Loveday-Egbo, who serves as their Ward 8 coordinator.

    They said it was crucial to address this error to prevent any undue backlash against Pastor Loveday-Egbo, who remains an exemplary member of the organisation.

    It also condemned the behaviour displayed by Hon. Ogbara during the incident with Pastor Olalaoni.

    The Pro-Wike group said it was regretful that a representative of the people would engage in a physical confrontation with a constituent, particularly one who deserves protection and support from their elected officials. 

    The group said such actions were unbecoming of a leader and did not reflect the values they uphold as a community.

    The group said it was important to note that while Pastor Olalaoni and Pastor Loveday-Egbo hail from the Elebele community in Ogbia Local Government Area, they reaffirmed that no member of The NEW Associates would partake in any untoward activity. 

    Read Also: Pro-Wike group shifts Bayelsa mega rally to April 26

    It noted that their organisation remained committed to fostering a respectful and constructive political environment, thereby encouraging positive engagement among constituents and their representatives.

    The group urged the public and media to exercise caution and verify facts before sharing information, as misrepresentations could lead to unwarranted tensions within the community.

    The statement reads in part: ‘’For clarity, the gentleman engaged in the altercation with the Chief Whip is Pastor Williams Olalaoni, while the Ogbia Ward 8 coordinator of The NEW Associates is Pastor Kevin Loveday-Egbo.  Both individuals are from Elebele Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. 

    ‘’This clarification is necessary due to the concerns the trending video has generated within the NEW Associates family, particularly in Bayelsa State. 

    “It is important to note that officials of The NEW Associates possess profound integrity, strong character, and high morals, and would never engage in such shameful acts, no matter the provocation.’’

  • Why I didn’t support Peter Obi for presidency – Wike

    Why I didn’t support Peter Obi for presidency – Wike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has offered insights into why he withheld support from Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections.

    Addressing journalists on Friday in Abuja, Wike explained that he did not see Obi as a serious contender, dismissing him as a “social media candidate” with no realistic path to victory.

    “No, he has no chance to win election,” Wike stated. “I don’t go to where you see people like this kind of social media candidates. I don’t do social media candidate.”

    Wike, who served as Governor of Rivers State, said his decision was based on political calculation rather than sentiment.

     According to him, he focuses on evaluating candidates who have the capacity to win, rather than those whose popularity is largely confined to online platforms.

    “I said I see that as a politician, and I analyse the candidate who is likely to win,” he said.

    Wike stressed that elections are shaped by more than a candidate’s qualifications or online appeal.

    “In politics, it’s not always the right that oh, this is the best candidate. No, no, no,” he remarked. “You see Nigerians today, in politics, so many factors come in.”

    Reflecting on the political atmosphere during the 2023 elections, Wike highlighted the impact of the naira redesign policy and fuel scarcity, which he said created a challenging landscape for all candidates, especially for the eventual winner, President Bola Tinubu.

    “It was very very turbulent for Tinubu to get to that election,” Wike noted. “It is one party administration. You could see people don’t want to speak the truth before that election.”

    Read Also: Governance: Tinubu has changed the face of FCT – Wike

    He further praised Tinubu’s political resilience and strategic acumen for overcoming the hurdles created by his own party’s policies.

    “No party in government would at that time bring some policy when you know you’re running an election,” Wike said. “But everything was done and he survived. he survived it.”

    Wike concluded by acknowledging that beyond strategy, Tinubu’s victory reflected both experience and divine backing.

    “So that’s how you know that there are people, first of all, God is on their side. Two, they also know this game. You must give it to them,” he added.

  • Wike constitutes vetting teams on regularisation of Area Councils land allocation

    Wike constitutes vetting teams on regularisation of Area Councils land allocation

    Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has approved the constitution of vetting teams to fast-track the process of regularisation of land allocations by the six Area Councils of the FCT. 

    The FCT Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, stated this while inaugurating the vetting teams in his office.

    Nwankwoeze reiterated that wike approved the constitution of the vetting teams with a clear directives, mandates and terms of reference to ensure that all processes are completed within a reasonable time frame.

    According to him, the constituted vetting teams will resolve the age long problems of titling of Mass Housing plots.

    He said with this approach, all subscribers of unit houses in the Mass Housing Programmes will be captured and be given titles for their individual housing units.

    Nwankwoeze emphasised that the government has deployed machinery to put to rest all lingering issues affecting the Area Councils plots allocation regularization and titling of delivered houses in all Mass Housing programmes.

    Read Also: Governance: Tinubu has changed the face of FCT – Wike

    The Director said the constitution of the Teams will ensure sanitation of land administration and restore public confidence in the management of land assets in the Territory.

    He said the Minister has the ‘political will’ to drive it to logical conclusion.

    Nwankwoeze described the vetting teams as a bold and irreversible step toward restoring sanity and public trust in the FCT’s land system.

    He called for understanding and cooperation of developers as well as the prospective titleholders; assuring that the FCT administration was committed to effective service delivering to all developers, titleholders and would-be titleholders, in consonance with the principles and aspirations of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

  • Governance: Tinubu has changed the face of FCT – Wike

    Governance: Tinubu has changed the face of FCT – Wike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, on Friday, said Abuja residents have seen changes in governance compared to the last administration.

    He said President Bola Tinubu is doing a lot, through him, in the nation’s capital. Wike who spoke in Abuja at a live media parley monitored by our correspondent provided updates on ongoing projects and outlined the administration’s strategies for improving healthcare, land management, sanitation, and transportation within the FCT.

    “The difference is clear,” the Minister stated emphatically, adding that FCT residents are amazed at the accelerated development that is going on all over the territory.

    He said: “You can see what is happening; people are talking, saying, ‘You mean this is possible within a short time of less than two years?’ We were here for eight years, and comparatively, little happened. We have not even reached two years, and look at what has already been achieved. Imagine what will happen in four years’ time.”

    The Minister further highlighted the palpable happiness among the populace, citing personal experiences. He said: “When I go out, I see that people are happy. I recently visited Kwali, on the road to Lokoja – A2 to Pai. The enthusiastic reception I received was remarkable. Similarly, the progress from Pai to Gomani is evident for all to see. In Bwari, the Gaba/Tokulo road is another testament to our commitment to reaching rural areas. People are genuinely amazed that the government is focusing on these communities; it has never happened before. So, yes, people are happy.”

    Read Also: Insecurity: Sokoto steps up mechanisms against banditry, other crimes for peace, stability

    Addressing recent insinuations regarding the cost of the ongoing International Conference Centre (ICC) renovation, Wike clarified that the investment reflects the enhanced quality of work being delivered.

    “The cost is a direct result of the improved quality we are insisting upon,” the Minister explained, emphasizing the choice of construction firm, Julius Berger Plc.

    “They are not cheap, but their standards are exceptional. By this May, I invite you to visit the International Conference Centre and witness the transformation firsthand. As Nigerians, you will be proud of what has been accomplished.”

    Speaking on on-going hospital projects, including those in Utako, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa, the Minister acknowledged the challenges posed by existing litigation.

    He also highlighted the complexities of hospital construction, emphasizing the need for integrated planning and execution, stating that the FCT administration was committed to ensuring the facilities are completed and operational to enhance healthcare delivery in the FCT.

    Addressing the recent land reforms, including the regularization of Area Council land titles, the Minister reiterated the Supreme Court’s ruling that all land within the FCT falls under the FCT Administration.

    He emphasized the government’s commitment to regularizing existing allocations to provide landowners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

    “The Supreme Court has come to say every land belongs to the FCT, therefore, there is nothing like Area Council land and we don’t want to go back in saying that we have cancelled all the allocations. We said let’s regularize so that you can have your C of O.”, he said.

    The Minister also called for prompt payment of fees and development of allocated lands to prevent land speculation and ensure efficient land utilization.

    Wike stated that the FCT Administration will proceed with the development of the Maitama II District, and called on all land allottees in the FCT who are yet to pay the required fees to do so, reiterating that Abuja land is not free.

    On the issue of reviewing the Abuja masterplan, the Minister urged for patience, stating, “The Abuja master plan is to keep Abuja the way it was designed.”

    Wike, while emphasizing the administration’s commitment to adhering to the masterplan and addressing illegal developments, cited the example of Kpaduma in Asokoro, where the administration is taking action to remove obstructions to road construction.

    The Minister stated that he will bring down any illegal structure that is against the Abuja masterplan.

  • Rivers emergency declaration saved Fubara from impeachment – Wike

    Rivers emergency declaration saved Fubara from impeachment – Wike

    • Says he opposed Atiku in 2023 because he doesn’t keep his word
    • Declares PDP unprepared for victory in 2027

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike yesterday shared his thoughts on the political crisis in Rivers State that led to the March 18, 2025 imposition of emergency rule on the state and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara for six months.

    Wike, the immediate past governor of the state and now estranged godfather of his suspended successor, said he actually wanted Fubara completely ousted as governor only for him (governor) to be saved by the suspension.

    The minister also spoke on his distrust of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, his assessment of the chances of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2027 polls and why he remains resolute in his support for President Bola Tinubu for the elections.

    “As a politician, I am not happy with the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State,” Wike said in a televised interview.

    “I wanted the outright removal of the governor. The President, by declaring a state of emergency, saved Fubara.”

    President Tinubu suspended Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu and all members of the House of Assembly for six months, citing security reports.

    The President appointed an administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) to run the affairs of the state during the emergency period.

    Continuing, Wike said: “The governor was gone. He was gone, yes… so when people say the President did this, I say they should be praising him.

    “Every morning, they should go to the President and ask, ‘Can we wash your feet for saving us?’”

    The minister said he was not opposed to peace talks with Fubara and alleged that the governor’s advisers were the ones discouraging him from embracing peace.

    You can’t bank on Atiku; he doesn’t honour his words

    Wike, who is also locked in a running battle with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as a fall out of the 2022 presidential primary of the PDP, said his opposition to the former vice president was based on principle and not on account of Atiku’s refusal to pick him as running mate for the 2023 election.

    His words: “I wanted power rotation. I could not have imagined that after eight years of Buhari, power goes to north again.

    “It is not about whether you chose to field me or not, it’s about principle.

    “To take that decision was difficult. A decision had to be taken and I looked at it, Atiku was not an option. So, he was a no go area.”

    Wike denied suggestions that Atiku dropped him as his running mate.

    “From day one, I told my delegates when they came that one thing you must know is that Atiku does not keep to his words.

    “I can tell you authoritatively what happened. In 2019, Atiku, (Bukola) Saraki and (Uche) Secondus came to see me that I was going to nominate the attorney general and minister of petroleum.

    “When we lost the election, the man who was supposed to bring the attorney general did not know when the legal team was constituted, and I laughed.

    “I watched it on television, and I now called Saraki: you people have constituted a legal team, and you said I was going to bring the attorney general.

    “I know from day one that Atiku would never keep to his word and I’ve never banked on that. I will not take his word to the bank.

    “It was very clear that I made the right decision and you can’t see me now saying I will support him for president. How?”

    PDP not ready for 2027

    The FCT minister also assessed the chances of his party, PDP, ahead of the 2027 elections.

    He did not see the party making any waves.

    “The PDP is not ready for the 2027 election. It is very obvious,” he said.

    “For instance, I have an examination and I am going to class to read. Indeed, am I reading? Am I studying? You don’t need to deceive anybody that you are reading. You are only trying to read so that people will see that you have carried your bag to class.”

    On the recent statement by the PDP Governors Forum ruling out coalition with any party for the 2027 polls, Wike said: “They are not sincere to themselves; they are not also sincere to the party.

    “On Tuesday, to be precise, I watched Politics Today on Channels TV where the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, was talking.

    “And after watching that interview, I called Seyi Makinde who is my friend and I told him that he did not tell the truth as regards some issues.

    “Fundamentally, you in 2023. One of the reasons why PDP lost was impunity. People who believed they have all it takes refused to respect the constitution of the party as regards power sharing. Now they are also making the same mistake by the impunity of the Governors Forum.

    “That is the situation of the PDP. So, they cannot say for sure that they are ready for 2027. Power struggle cannot help the party.

    “I am minister of FCT and I am not just any minister; they must understand that. There is nothing any governor can do that I cannot do. It is very obvious that PDP is not ready for the 2027 election. You do not need to like me. What I am saying, is it correct? All these power struggles cannot help us (PDP).

    “If PDP does not put their house in order, I’m not going to support them in the Abuja Area councils election. If PDP goes the way they are going, I will not support them.

    “This crisis will consume this party until the right thing is done. I have never recommended anybody to these governors but that does not mean that I don’t play any role.

    ‘Why Tinubu will remain president till 2031’

    Wike reiterated his support for President Tinubu for the next polls.

    He said: “I said it in 2023 and I’m saying it again that until 2031, when the position should go to the North, there is nothing anybody will say to me now.

    “It’s not anti-party, it’s harmonious living together. You can’t tell me that it’s your own prerogative to be producing president; let’s all live.

    “Whether APC liked it or not, it was very turbulent for Tinubu to have scaled through that (2023) election.

    “You could see that he could have failed the election woefully. The fuel crisis, the naira issue was terrible.

    “No party in government would at that time bring such a policy when you know you are running an election, but everything was done and he survived it.

    “That’s how you will know that there are people that, first of all, God is on their side. They also know this game and you must give it to them.”

    Fubara’s N300m gift to NBA not appropriated

    The minister faulted the financial gift of N300 million which Fubara gave the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for the purpose of hosting its 2025 Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt.

    The association has shifted the conference to Enugu citing the state of emergency in Rivers, and Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas recently asked for the return of the money to the state.

    Wike said the gift was illegal as there was no provision whatsoever for the money in the state’s budget.

    Besides, he said, the association’s criticism of the state of emergency was motivated by the gift.

     “How will the NBA back Rivers’ emergency rule when they collect gifts?” he said.

    “When the Body of Benchers came to see me, I told them. When the Justice gave judgment about local governments, the NBA came out and condemned it without reading the judgment.

    “The President declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, they say he is not correct, until everybody now knows why they took that stance, because the state gifted them a gift that was not appropriated.

    “NBA took N300 million and said it was a gift.

    “In my budget, I put it as a grant. I am allowed by law because it is appropriated. In this case the gift was not appropriated. The NBA took an illegal gift.”

    Lack of leadership destroying PDP — Fayose

    Another prominent member of PDP and former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose yesterday lamented what he called the unfortunate situation the party has now found itself.

    He said long-standing unresolved issues and a lack of leadership direction had driven the once ruling party to the precipice.

    “The situation in the party is unfortunate and regrettable,” Fayose said on Channels Television.

    He added: “This problem did not start today. The party has failed to initiate any meaningful reconciliation or fence-mending.

    “Everyone is fighting for their own interest—power for power, strength for strength.

    Read Also: Abuja residents witnessing real change under Tinubu’s administration – Wike

    “When you fall on metal, may God save your life. Everybody’s defending their tea, their cup, and their position. And when you use one broom to sweep, you make no impact.

    “There is no denying the fact that all is not well with the PDP. All is not well, and it will take only a miracle to bring this party to the dreamed destination.”

    Like Wike, Fayose said power must remain in the South in 2027 and reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu.

    Assessing the President’s performance, the ex-governor said: “If you compare today and the past, you will still give it to Tinubu. The system is rotten, but he is managing a terrible situation.”

  • Abuja residents witnessing real change under Tinubu’s administration – Wike

    Abuja residents witnessing real change under Tinubu’s administration – Wike

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said that residents of Abuja are already experiencing a shift in governance compared to the previous administration.

    Speaking during a live media parley in Abuja on Friday, which was monitored by our correspondent, Wike stated that President Bola Tinubu’s government, through his stewardship, is delivering impactful changes in the nation’s capital.

    He provided updates on key projects and outlined strategic efforts to improve healthcare, land administration, sanitation, and transportation within the FCT.

    Highlighting the progress in infrastructure development, the minister said residents have begun to appreciate the visible transformation, describing the feedback as overwhelmingly positive.

    “The difference is clear,” the Minister stated emphatically, adding that FCT residents are amazed at the accelerated development that is going on all over the territory.

    He said: “You can see what is happening; people are talking, saying, ‘You mean this is possible within a short time of less than two years?’ We were here for eight years, and comparatively, little happened. We have not even reached two years, and look at what has already been achieved. Imagine what will happen in four years’ time”.

    The Minister further highlighted the palpable happiness among the populace, citing personal experiences.

    He said: “When I go out, I see that people are happy. I recently visited Kwali, on the road to Lokoja – A2 to Pai. The enthusiastic reception I received was remarkable. Similarly, the progress from Pai to Gomani is evident for all to see. In Bwari, the Gaba/Tokulo road is another testament to our commitment to reaching rural areas. People are genuinely amazed that the government is focusing on these communities; it has never happened before. So, yes, people are happy”.

    Addressing recent insinuations regarding the cost of the ongoing International Conference Centre (ICC) renovation, the Minister clarified that the investment reflects the enhanced quality of work being delivered.

    Wike said: “The cost is a direct result of the improved quality we are insisting upon,” the Minister explained, emphasizing the choice of construction giant, Julius Berger Plc.

    Read Also: I wanted outright removal of Fubara – Wike

    “They are not cheap, but their standards are exceptional. By this May, I invite you to visit the International Conference Centre and witness the transformation firsthand. As Nigerians, you will be proud of what has been accomplished”.

    Speaking on on-going hospital projects, including those in Utako, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa, the Minister acknowledged the challenges posed by existing litigation.

    He also highlighted the complexities of hospital construction, emphasizing the need for integrated planning and execution, stating that the FCT administration was committed to ensuring the facilities are completed and operational to enhance healthcare delivery in the FCT.

    Addressing the recent land reforms, including the regularization of Area Council land titles, the Minister reiterated the Supreme Court’s ruling that all land within the FCT falls under the FCT Administration.

    He emphasized the government’s commitment to regularizing existing allocations to provide landowners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

    “The Supreme Court has come to say every land belongs to the FCT, therefore, there is nothing like Area Council land and we don’t want to go back in saying that we have cancelled all the allocations. We said let’s regularize so that you can have your C of O.”, he said.

    The Minister also called for prompt payment of fees and development of allocated lands to prevent land speculation and ensure efficient land utilization.

    Wike also stated that the FCT Administration will proceed with the development of the Maitama II District, and called on all land allottees in the FCT who are yet to pay the required fees to do so, reiterating that Abuja land is not free.

    On the issue of reviewing the Abuja masterplan, the Minister called for patience, stating, “The Abuja master plan is to keep Abuja the way it was designed.”

    Wike, while emphasizing the administration’s commitment to adhering to the masterplan and addressing illegal developments, cited the example of Kpaduma in Asokoro, where the administration is taking action to remove obstructions to road construction.

    The Minister stated that he will bring down any illegal structure that is against the Abuja masterplan.

    On city sanitation, the Minister called for greater public responsibility and tax compliance.

    He highlighted the high cost of waste management and urged residents to pay their sanitation fees.

    Wike also called on the media to help educate the public on the need to pay their taxes.

    Speaking on public transportation in the FCT, and the menace of illegal motor parks, the Minister disclosed that the three bus terminal projects embarked upon by the administration would soon be completed.

    Once operational, the Minister said the administration will enforce regulations to reduce illegal parking and improve traffic flow.

    He said: “By the grace of God, we are almost done with the three bus terminals. We will be able to say this is where you will load, and this is the dropping point. Then we will now be able to reduce these illegal car parks.”

  • I wanted outright removal of Fubara – Wike

    I wanted outright removal of Fubara – Wike

    …says PDP not ready for 2027 elections

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, stating that he personally preferred the outright removal of the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    Wike made this known on Friday during a media parley in Abuja, which was monitored by our correspondent.

    President Tinubu last month declared a state of emergency in the state, citing escalating political instability and recent security threats, including pipeline explosions.

    In a move he described as “inevitably compelling,” the president suspended Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly for six months.

    Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as sole administrator to steer the affairs of the state pending the resolution of the crisis.

    Wike, who was the immediate past governor of Rivers, said: “As a politician, I am not happy with the declaration of Emergency Rule in Rivers state. I wanted the outright removal of the governor. But for the interest of the state, the president did the right thing to prevent anarchy in the state.

    “The matter is in court but people must tell the truth. The governor was gone. It is not in my place to make it good for the governor. As a politician, my business is not to make him comfortable and that is why there is power plane”.

    Wike and Fubara have been at loggerheads since Fubara became governor.

    Read Also: Neither Wike, nor Fubara

    The conflict led to the emergence of factional speakers and a parallel assembly.

    Wike also said if the main opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) does not have a formidable structure to defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

    From the look of things, the minister said PDP is not ready for the 2027 elections.

    Opposition leaders across the country are intensifying efforts to form a united front against the APC.

    However, divergent interests among key stakeholders have continued to hamper the progress of coalition talks.

    Wike also made it known that he will not support PDP, party leaders do not unite and put their house in order for elections.

    The minister said: “The PDP is not ready for the 2027 election. It is very obvious. For instance, I have an examination and I am going to class to read. Indeed, am I reading? Am I studying? you don’t need to deceive anybody that you are reading. You are only trying to read so that people will see that you have carried your bag to class.

    “That is the situation of the PDP. So, they cannot say for sure that they are ready for 2027. Power struggle cannot help the party.”

    Details shortly…