Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a frequent contestant who, according to him, would still seek office in 2031.
Wike made the remarks during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Abuja while responding to Atiku’s recent criticism that the current administration has not delivered meaningful results.
“Atiku is a serial failure. He is a serial contestant and loser, and I am sure that in 2031, he will still contest. Nigerians would be laughing at such a person making that kind of statement that nothing positive has been done,” Wike said.
He urged the former Vice President to compare the condition of the Federal Capital Territory during his tenure with the present situation.
“Let him compare FCT now and when he was Vice President. Can he honestly say what we have now is the same as then?” he queried.
The minister stressed that governance would continue regardless of political distractions.
“The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he said.
Wike also assured residents that major road projects across the FCT would be completed as scheduled.
He disclosed that the Airport to Kuje road project is nearing completion, adding that part of the bridge would be opened for use next week.
“From Airport Junction to Kuje, one part of the bridge is almost completed. Before the end of May, the entire job will be handed over,” he said.
On the Kuje to Gwagwalada road, Wike noted that the first phase of the dualisation, covering about seven kilometres, would be delivered before the end of May.
“I am happy with the progress; we are satisfied with the quality of jobs being delivered,” he added.
According to him, the projects are expected to transform Kuje into a major hub, reduce pressure on Abuja city centre and attract more residents and investors.
“Very soon, Kuje will no longer be a satellite town. People will move there, build houses, and the pressure on the city will reduce,” he said.
The minister also dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress ADC that the FCT Administration attempted to obstruct its planned convention by targeting a venue.
“I don’t even know where that place is. There was no interference from anybody. These people should just stop looking for sympathy,” he said.
He challenged the party to provide evidence of any formal communication regarding the use of public facilities, insisting that due process must be followed.
Wike further assured that political activities would not hinder development efforts in the FCT, adding that most ongoing projects would be completed before January.
“Our focus is clear: deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving,” he said.
