Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has hit out at those criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as “politically expired” individuals who cannot recognise ongoing developmental strides under the current government.
Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during the flag-off and commissioning of key road projects in the Ushafa-Bwari area of Abuja. The event marked the official opening of the dualised War College/Army Checkpoint road and other nearby roads aimed at improving infrastructure in the satellite towns of the FCT.
While speaking at the event, Wike called out long-time political players who, according to him, have jumped across various parties since 1999 but continue to criticise every administration, including Tinubu’s.
“Let them hear. Let those who don’t have vision, who are politically expired, and those who, since 1999, have belonged to over 10 political parties — let them see what you’re doing,” Wike said.
“Whichever channel they want to watch, they will see Mr President. And yet, people are saying nothing is working. Must we come to their houses before they know something is working?”
The outspoken former Rivers State Governor defended President Tinubu’s performance, saying the administration is achieving meaningful development, especially in parts of the country that have been neglected for years.
Wike’s comments were made in the presence of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Tinubu at the commissioning. The minister praised Tinubu and Shettima for showing physical support to rural and satellite communities, something he said no previous administration had done.
“This is the first time a sitting President and Vice President will go to the satellite towns to identify with the people. It has never happened. This shows the love Mr President has for the satellite towns,” Wike noted.
He also commended the contractors and the FCT project coordinator for completing the road works as scheduled. According to Wike, the development in Bwari is part of a larger plan to extend infrastructure to underserved areas across the FCT.
Wike didn’t stop at praising the leadership of the APC government. He used the platform to send a clear warning to government appointees who, in his words, think positions are meant for luxury and publicity rather than service.
“Working with me is not easy. If you survive working with me, you can survive anywhere,” Wike said.
“You cannot be nominated for a position to just chop. You must work. You must make sacrifices and show that you have the capacity.”
He criticised officials who treat public office as an opportunity for personal showmanship instead of focusing on delivering real results.
“There are people you give a position, and they think it’s just for publicity. Some take it as an opportunity to express themselves instead of doing the actual work,” he added.
The dualised Ushafa-Bwari road project is one of several initiatives the FCT Administration has undertaken under Wike’s leadership to improve infrastructure in remote parts of the capital territory.
Since assuming office, Wike has focused on road construction, urban renewal, and other infrastructure projects. His efforts have drawn both praise and criticism, especially over his no-nonsense leadership style and frequent media clashes with opponents.
However, Wike insists the results speak for themselves and believes critics are simply unwilling to acknowledge progress because of political bias or personal grudges.
“Whether they like it or not, the work will continue,” he declared.
