FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on Wednesday took a swipe at his political critics, noting that many who previously criticised him for associating with President Bola Tinubu are now joining the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The minister made the remarks a day after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
Speaking at the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Ring Road 2 along Wassa Road in Abuja, Wike defended his political decisions, saying politics should be left to mature-minded leaders.
“I have been watching on television and social media, those who accused me of destabilising the PDP and working for APC, all of them are now in APC. If it is true I worked for APC, then they should commend me, not condemn me. It means I did a good job for them,” he quipped.
Reiterating his loyalty to President Tinubu, Wike highlighted how the administration’s policies, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, have improved the financial stability of states and the FCT, ending the era when governors had to chase banks for loans just to pay salaries.
“I was a governor for eight years, and I know what it meant to run around banks to borrow money for projects and even to pay salaries. But today, by the decisive leadership of Mr President, banks are now the ones running after states. Salaries are being paid, projects are being executed, and no governor is talking about leaving huge debts for successors. That is visionary leadership,” he said.
Wike said the visible infrastructure projects in the FCT are a direct result of President Tinubu’s purposeful leadership. “Whatever we are saying today in FCT is as a result of that leadership. Once you set the standard, everyone you appoint must follow suit,” he added.
He also reminded Apo traders that plans for their relocation remain on track, revealing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has completed costings for infrastructure at the new site.
Speaking on the OSEX project, Wike emphasised its role in easing traffic congestion into the city. “Before the Apo–Wassa road was done, it took hours to enter the city. It was horrible. But gradually, we are delivering happiness to the people of the FCT,” he said.
The minister praised FCT Area Council chairmen for working across party lines to support his administration, calling their unity unprecedented.
Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, also present at the event, was described by Wike as “a brother” committed to supporting youth-focused initiatives in Abuja.
In a vote of thanks, Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, called the OSEX project “a bold step toward easing traffic flow, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing mobility for residents.” She commended President Tinubu for “constantly reminding Nigerians that progress is not just in policy but in the visible transformation of lives and communities,” while praising Wike for turning the FCT into “a construction powerhouse and a beacon of national renewal.”