Wike takes aim at critics during road project flag-off
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has once again stirred the political landscape in Nigeria with a bold statement directed at his critics. On Wednesday, the outspoken minister declared that many of those who previously attacked him for supporting President Bola Tinubu are now defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike made the remarks during the official 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. His comments came just a day after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC — a move that has intensified political realignments across the country.
‘They condemned me then, but they are joining APC now’
In a speech that drew both laughter and applause from the crowd, Wike criticized what he described as political hypocrisy. He said many of those who once vilified him for associating with President Tinubu are now making the same political choices.
“I have been watching on television and social media, those who accused me of destabilising the PDP and working for APC. All of them are now in APC. If it is true I worked for APC, then they should commend me, not condemn me. It means I did a good job for them,” Wike quipped.
The minister, known for his fiery political style, stressed that politics should be left to mature minds who can stand by their decisions, not those who shift positions for convenience.
Wike reiterates loyalty to Tinubu’s leadership
Wike also reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, stating that the President’s leadership has brought tangible results to the country, particularly in the area of public finance. He praised the removal of fuel subsidy as a bold policy that has significantly improved the financial health 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 even to pay salaries. But today, by the decisive leadership of Mr. President, banks are now the ones running after states. Salaries are being paid, projects are being executed, and no governor is talking about leaving huge debts for successors. That is visionary leadership,” he said.
According to the minister, these economic reforms have made it possible for the government to focus on meaningful development rather than debt servicing.
Infrastructure projects reflect Tinubu’s vision
Wike credited the visible infrastructural developments in Abuja to President Tinubu’s purposeful leadership. He stated that once the tone of governance is set at the top, every appointed official follows the same direction.
He also spoke about the ongoing plans to relocate Apo traders to a new site, revealing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has completed costings for providing infrastructure at the relocation area. This, he explained, is part of efforts to create a more organized city structure.
OSEX road project to ease traffic congestion
Speaking specifically on the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) project, Wike emphasized its importance in reducing travel time and decongesting the central areas of the FCT.
“Before the Apo–Wassa road was done, it took hours to enter the city. It was horrible. But gradually, we are delivering happiness to the people of the FCT,” he said.
The road, once completed, is expected to significantly enhance mobility, ease traffic flow, and stimulate economic activities in surrounding communities.
Political unity and support from stakeholders
The minister also commended FCT Area Council chairmen for working together across party lines to support his administration’s development agenda. He described the level of cooperation as unprecedented, adding that development should be placed above political differences.
Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo was among the dignitaries present at the event. Wike described Yobo as “a brother” who has been supportive of youth development initiatives in Abuja.
Tinubu’s leadership praised by Minister of State
In her vote of thanks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised the project as “a bold step toward easing traffic flow, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing mobility for residents.” She lauded President Tinubu for turning policy promises into visible development projects and commended Wike for transforming the FCT into what she called “a construction powerhouse and a beacon of national renewal.”
The event ended with applause from attendees, signaling broad support for the ongoing infrastructural projects and the political alliances reshaping Nigeria’s capital.
