The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a frequent election contender with no report of success and predicting he would run once more in 2031 regardless of previous assurances.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday throughout an inspection tour of ongoing street initiatives throughout Abuja, the place he responded to Atiku’s declare that the present administration has didn’t ship significant advantages to Nigerians.
He stated, “Atiku is a serial failure. He’s a serial contestant and loser, and I’m positive that in 2031, he’ll nonetheless contest. Nigerians could be laughing at such an individual making that sort of assertion that nothing optimistic has been executed.”
The minister additionally challenged Atiku to match the state of the FCT now with when he served as vice chairman.
“Let him examine the FCT now and when he was vice chairman. Can he truthfully say what we’ve now is identical as then?” Wike requested.
Reacting to allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that FCT officers tried to frustrate its conference on the Rainbow Occasion Centre, Wike denied any involvement.
“I don’t even know the place that place is. There was no interference from anyone. These individuals ought to simply cease in search of sympathy,” he stated.
He confused that governance wouldn’t be derailed by political distractions.
“The election will come, however individuals should work. Contractors will not be a part of the election,” he added.
On infrastructure, Wike gave updates on key initiatives, noting that work on the Airport–Kuje street is nearing completion, with a part of the bridge anticipated to open quickly.
“From Airport Junction to Kuje, one a part of the bridge is sort of accomplished. Earlier than the tip of Might, all the job shall be handed over,” he stated.
He additionally disclosed that the primary section of the Kuje–Gwagwalada street dualisation, overlaying about seven kilometres, is on monitor for completion throughout the similar timeframe.
“I’m proud of the progress. We’re glad with the standard of jobs being delivered,” he added.
Wike expressed optimism that improved street infrastructure would rework Kuje into a serious residential and industrial hub, easing strain on central Abuja.
“Very quickly, Kuje will now not be a satellite tv for pc city. Folks will transfer there and construct homes, and the strain on town will scale back,” he stated.
He additional challenged the ADC to offer proof of any formal request to make use of Eagle Sq., insisting that due course of was not adopted.
The minister reaffirmed that challenge supply stays the administration’s precedence, noting that over 80 per cent of deliberate works are anticipated to be accomplished earlier than January.
“Our focus is evident; ship initiatives, enhance lives, and hold Abuja shifting,” he stated.