The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has lashed out at his political opponents, noting that many who once criticized his association with President Bola Tinubu are now aligning themselves with the All Progressives Congress.
Wike’s comments followed the defection of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC—a move seen as part of the ruling party’s growing momentum in the South East region.
Speaking on Wednesday at the flag-off ceremony for 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, Wike said he felt vindicated by recent political shifts and emphasized the importance of integrity in politics.
“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,” he quipped.
Reiterating his support for President Tinubu, Wike applauded the administration’s economic policies—particularly the removal of fuel subsidies—which he said had significantly boosted the financial standing of both the FCT and state governments.
“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,” Wike said.
He credited Abuja’s ongoing infrastructure boom to what he described as President Tinubu’s “purposeful and disciplined leadership,” asserting that the commitment to high standards is reshaping the capital.
“Whatever we are saying today in FCT is as a result of that leadership. Once you set the standard, everyone you appoint must follow suit,” he added.
Wike also addressed the planned relocation of Apo Market, informing traders that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) had concluded cost estimates for infrastructure at the new site.
Regarding the OSEX project, he stressed its importance in alleviating congestion and improving transportation across the city. “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 Minister extended praise to FCT Area Council chairmen for their cross-party cooperation, calling their support “unprecedented in the history of the capital.”
Among those present at the event was former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, whom Wike described as “a brother” committed to youth development in the territory.
In her closing remarks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the road project as “a bold step toward easing traffic flow, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing mobility for residents.” She also applauded President Tinubu for “constantly reminding Nigerians that progress is not just in policy but in the visible transformation of lives and communities,” and commended Wike for turning the FCT into “a construction powerhouse and a beacon of national renewal.”
