Politics

Those Who Criticised Me Are Now Fleeing to APC – Wike

ByTitilope Adako

PublishedOctober 16, 2025

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday criticised his political opponents, saying many who once condemned his association with President Bola Tinubu are now defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike made the statement a day after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for 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, Abuja, Wike said his political decisions have been vindicated.

He emphasised that politics should be left to mature-minded individuals.

“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 said.

Reiterating his loyalty to President Tinubu, Wike said the administration’s policies, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, have strengthened the financial standing of states and the FCT.

He said governors no longer have to chase banks for loans 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.

The minister said the visible infrastructure developments in Abuja are a direct result of President Tinubu’s 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.

Wike also assured Apo traders that plans for their relocation remain on course, revealing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has concluded costings for infrastructure at the new site.

On the OSEX project, he highlighted its strategic 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 commended FCT Area Council chairmen for cooperating across party lines to support his administration, calling the unity unprecedented.

Former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, also attended the event.
Wike described him as “a brother” committed to youth-focused initiatives in Abuja.

Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, praised the project as “a bold step toward easing traffic flow, stimulating economic activities and enhancing mobility for residents.”

She also commended President Tinubu for “constantly reminding Nigerians that progress is not just in policy but in the visible transformation of lives and communities,” and lauded Wike for turning the FCT into “a construction powerhouse and a beacon of national renewal.”

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.