By FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has pledged to prevent Senator Ireti Kingibe from returning to the upper legislative house in the next election.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony for the Mabushi Bus Terminal construction in Abuja on Monday, Wike asserted his administration’s achievements and criticized the senator’s legislative record.
“If we have done well, we have done well. If we haven’t done well, we haven’t done well. I am proud to say that in the short time that President Tinubu has appointed us, we have done well,” the FCT minister said.
“You said there are no schools and hospitals. You, as a legislator, what have you done? How many bills have you sponsored for us to improve our education and health sectors?
“I challenge that legislator. If you are very popular, in 2027, come and run under Abuja; we will fail you.
“You think that what happened last time will happen again? It will not happen again. If you are popular, come and run. Luckily for me, I am the FCT minister now. So, here is my territory, and I am not afraid.
“People should be able to accept the truth. We are not begging for anybody to be our friend. We have so many friends that we cannot even carry them along. So, how can we go and beg people to be our friends? We are not interested in that.”
Wike dismissed any need for political alliances, asserting, “We have countless friends and do not seek new ones. Our focus remains unwavering.”
Senator Kingibe has yet to respond to these statements.
Kingibe, a member of the Labour Party (LP), defeated Wike ally Philip Aduda in the 2023 election to represent the FCT. Tensions between Wike and Kingibe escalated thereafter, with the senator accusing the minister of neglecting the territory despite her representation.
Wike alleged that Kingibe’s criticism stemmed from not being appointed chair of the Senate Committee on the FCT. Amidst security challenges in the capital, Kingibe accused Wike of avoiding her calls and disregarding the welfare of FCT residents.
The exchange has sparked debate on social media, with users like Doe criticizing Wike’s stance: “An appointee threatening an elected representative. Wike is leveraging his authority, reminiscent of his actions in Rivers State elections, without repercussions. It’s fortunate PDP didn’t endorse him.”
King Davies echoed concerns about political priorities, stating, “Typical Nigerian politician—ignores poverty, unemployment, healthcare, and insecurity. Instead, fixated on removing opposition three years out. Speaks as if he can predict the future.”
