The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has pointedly distanced himself from the internal frictions currently besetting the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State. Speaking on Monday, the Minister insisted that as a non-member of the party, the screening of its aspirants remains entirely outside his purview.
Addressing journalists during an inspection tour of critical infrastructure projects across the Territory, Mr Wike was characteristically blunt regarding the limits of his political commentary.
“I am not a member of the APC, so I don’t know what is happening in their screening,” he stated. “Even if they publish the results, why would I comment? I don’t know the reasons they have. I’m not a native doctor, neither am I a prophet.”
Turning his attention to the political landscape of his home state, the Minister provided insight into the emerging alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. He suggested that his political machinery in Rivers State which he described as a “rainbow coalition” would prioritise electoral pragmatism over rigid party affiliations.
“That is the essence of the rainbow coalition in Rivers State,” Mr Wike explained. “We will look at where we have strength, compare notes, and vote accordingly.”
The Minister’s remarks coincided with an extensive tour of road and bridge projects nearing completion, intended for inauguration as part of the activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
Mr Wike expressed high satisfaction with the pace and quality of the works, noting that several key routes are being prepared for commissioning before the end of May. Key highlights of the inspection included: The Dutse-Alhaji-to-M5 Road: Progressing steadily, with the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), pledging to complete streetlight installations within ten days.
Major Bridge Infrastructure: A significant bridge project directing traffic toward Kubwa has reached a critical milestone, with the Minister praising the “excellence” of the construction.
Streetlighting: Contractors have assured the FCT Administration that all outstanding electrical works across various sites will be finalised this month.
“Part of these projects fixed by Mr President will be inaugurated. Quality jobs done by very good contractors. We are happy,” the Minister added.
The Minister also addressed rising concerns regarding the alleged harassment of residents by officials of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) during tax enforcement exercises. While acknowledging that no formal complaint had yet reached his office, Mr Wike emphasised the need for decorum in fiscal administration.
“There must be a civilised way of collecting taxes,” he remarked, whilst noting the habitual reluctance of some citizens to comply. “Knowing our taxpayers, people don’t like to pay tax. When tax collectors come, they find one excuse or the other.”
As the capital prepares for the President’s milestone celebrations, the Minister’s dual focus on infrastructure delivery and strategic political maneuvering continues to define his tenure in the FCT.
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