The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed criticism from former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a “serial contestant and loser” who is likely to run again in 2031. Speaking during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Abuja, Wike responded to Atiku’s recent remarks that the current administration has not delivered meaningful progress.
“Let him compare the FCT now and when he was Vice-President. Can he honestly say what we have now is the same as then?” Wike challenged, insisting that the former vice-president’s repeated electoral failures undermine his credibility to comment on governance.
Wike maintained that the administration would not be distracted by political criticism, stressing that governance must continue despite ongoing political activities. “The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he said.
The minister used the inspection tour to update residents on the progress of key infrastructure projects. He revealed that the Airport–Kuje road project is nearing completion, with part of the bridge set to open 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, Wike said the first phase of dualisation, covering about seven kilometres, would also be completed before the end of May. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and said the projects would help transform Kuje into a major urban hub, easing pressure on Abuja’s city centre.
“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 added.
Wike also addressed 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, challenging the party to provide evidence of any formal communication regarding the use of public facilities.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to development, Wike assured that most of the ongoing projects would be completed before January. “Our focus is clear: deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving,” he concluded.
