The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has boldly reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general elections, stating he has “no regrets” and would make the same decision again if given the opportunity.
Wike, who served as Rivers State Governor under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for eight years, has become one of the most prominent figures in the Tinubu administration, despite his historical ties to the opposition. Appointed as FCT Minister by Tinubu in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government, Wike’s political choices have continued to spark intense debate.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service organized by PDP stakeholders in Ochigba, located in Ahoada East and West Local Government Areas of Rivers State, Wike expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for placing his trust in him.
“I want to thank Mr. President for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” Wike said during the event, which drew a mixed audience of supporters and critics. Addressing the backlash over his alliance with the APC, he declared, “I have no regrets, I have no apologies. If the opportunity comes again, I will do the same thing.”
Standing Firm Amid Threats
Wike revealed that his decision to support Tinubu during the presidential election did not come without consequences. He disclosed that he faced significant threats and intimidation for his political stance but maintained that his actions were in line with his convictions.
“In politics, you must take a stand,” Wike said. “I was threatened, but I remained resolute. I will always do what I believe is right, regardless of the consequences.”
This declaration further underscores Wike’s defiance of traditional party loyalty, as his support for Tinubu contributed to fractures within the PDP, where he was once a formidable powerbroker.
Addressing Allegations of Land Grabbing
In addition to defending his political decisions, Wike also addressed recent accusations of land grabbing in Abuja, where he now serves as Minister. Critics have alleged that Wike has misused his authority to appropriate government lands for personal gain, claims he dismissed as baseless propaganda.
“I am in charge of lands in Abuja. How will I grab what I am in charge of?” he asked rhetorically during the thanksgiving service, his voice tinged with incredulity. “We must thank Mr. President for giving me this opportunity. If not for this, some of these issues would have remained hidden.”
Wike emphasized that his tenure as FCT Minister is focused on ensuring proper adherence to land use regulations. “No matter the cry, no matter the propaganda, the right thing must be done,” he said firmly. “If you are in possession of government land and you are not compliant, your plot will be revoked.”
The minister’s tenure in the FCT has already been marked by bold and sometimes controversial moves, including demolitions of illegal structures and revocations of undeveloped plots. While critics accuse him of heavy-handedness, Wike maintains that his actions are aimed at restoring order and ensuring compliance with federal laws.
From Rivers to Abuja: A New Political Terrain
Wike compared his experiences as a state governor to his current role in the nation’s capital, highlighting the complexities of dealing with a more diverse and politically charged environment.
“In Rivers State, we thought things were difficult. But when you come to the capital, you know you are dealing with the entire country,” he remarked. “The expectations are higher, and the scrutiny is intense.”
This reflection comes as Wike adjusts to his new role, which has thrust him into the spotlight as one of the most vocal and controversial figures in the Tinubu administration.
A Polarizing Figure
Wike’s tenure as Rivers State Governor was marked by his combative political style and his ability to navigate complex power dynamics within the PDP. His decision to back Tinubu, a rival party candidate, during the presidential election shocked many within his party and beyond.
His role as a leading figure in the G-5, a group of aggrieved PDP governors, further cemented his reputation as a political maverick. The group’s decision not to back the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, was widely seen as a key factor in the APC’s victory in the 2023 elections.
Since his appointment as FCT Minister, Wike has continued to draw both praise and criticism for his approach to governance. While some laud his no-nonsense style and commitment to enforcing rules, others accuse him of authoritarian tendencies and playing partisan politics in a position meant to serve all Nigerians.
Looking Ahead
Despite the controversies surrounding his tenure, Wike remains undeterred. His bold declarations and actions suggest that he is prepared to weather the storm of public opinion and continue implementing his vision for the FCT.
For Wike, the challenges of leading Abuja are an opportunity to prove his mettle on a national stage. “I am not here to play politics,” he said. “I am here to ensure that the right things are done.”