The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Thursday took a swipe at former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a serial contestant and loser who, according to him, would still run for office in 2031.
Wike spoke during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Abuja while responding to Atiku’s recent criticism that the current administration has not made any positive impact.
“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 challenged the former Vice-President to compare the state of the Federal Capital Territory during his time in office with the current 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 insisted that the administration would not be distracted by political criticism, stressing that governance must continue despite political activities.
“The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he said.
Wike used the opportunity to assure residents that major road projects across the FCT would be delivered on schedule.
He disclosed that the Airport–Kuje road project is nearing completion, noting 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–Gwagwalada road, the minister said the first phase of the dualisation, covering about seven kilometres, would also be completed 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 Wike, the projects would help transform Kuje into a major hub, reduce pressure on the 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 frustrate 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 slow down development in the FCT.
He added that most of the ongoing projects would be completed before January.
“Our focus is clear: deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving,” he said.
He’ll still contest, lose in 2031 – Wike mocks Atiku
