Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at his political critics, saying many of those who once condemned his alliance with President Bola Tinubu are now defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike made the remark during the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Ring Road 2 along Wassa Road in Abuja. The minister said the recent wave of defections, including that of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, was a sign that his political stance had been vindicated.
According to Wike, politics should be reserved for individuals with integrity and maturity. He stated that those who once accused him of working for the APC while he was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are now the same people rushing to join the ruling party. “I have been watching those who accused me of destabilising the PDP and working for APC. All of them are now in APC. If it is true that I worked for APC, then they should commend me, not condemn me. It means I did a good job for them,” Wike said.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu and commended the administration for its economic policies, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said has strengthened the finances of states and the FCT. “I was a governor for eight years, and I know what it meant to run around banks to borrow money for projects and to pay salaries. But today, by the decisive leadership of Mr President, banks are the ones running after states. Salaries are being paid, and projects are being executed. That is visionary leadership,” he added.
The minister also highlighted that the visible infrastructure projects in the FCT are the results of President Tinubu’s purposeful leadership. He noted that once a leader sets the right standard, everyone appointed under him must follow suit. Wike further disclosed that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) had concluded plans and costings for the relocation of Apo traders to a new site.
Speaking on the OSEX project, he described it as a major step towards reducing traffic congestion and improving mobility in Abuja. He commended the FCT Area Council chairmen for their unity and cooperation regardless of party affiliations. Present at the event was former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, whom Wike described as a dedicated supporter of youth initiatives in the FCT.