Wike supports Tinubu allies, criticises PDP’s internal failures, and defends FCT election conduct amid claims of voter disenfranchisement
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday defended his continued support for President Bola Tinubu and candidates aligned with the President, while sharply criticising the internal state of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Also read: Kenneth Okonkwo Slams FCT Election Under Unknown Law
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja, Wike reiterated that his backing of Tinubu was first publicly declared in 2023. “I told you in 2023 that even as a PDP man, I was going to work for the President. That is what I did because I believe, and rightly so, that the other parties did not present serious candidates,” he said.
Wike faulted the PDP for failing to consult him on its candidates, adding, “As a minister, my party did not consult me on the candidates they were going to present.” He stressed that his support is open to any candidate, regardless of party affiliation, provided they back Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The minister addressed recent controversy over movement restrictions during the February 21 FCT elections, stating that the directive was issued with presidential approval and for security purposes.
“By the approval of the President, movement was restricted from 8 p.m. for security reasons. It was to ensure that people did not import troublemakers into the city to cause a crisis,” he said.
Wike dismissed claims that the measure disenfranchised voters, noting that polling occurred from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Responding to allegations of influencing election outcomes, Wike clarified, “I was not on the ballot. I never told anyone not to vote for any candidate. All I said was that I would support candidates who support Mr President.” He further underlined the nature of politics, stating, “Let me make this clear: I am a politician. I chose to be a politician, and politics is about winning.”
Wike concluded by urging aggrieved parties to pursue legal remedies, adding, “If anyone is dissatisfied, they should go to the tribunal. Let the tribunal cancel the election and order a rerun if necessary. The outcome will not be different.”
Also read: Kenneth Okonkwo Slams FCT Election Under Unknown Law
The February 21 elections saw the All Progressives Congress secure five of six chairmanship seats across FCT Area Councils, winning in Abuja Municipal Area Council, Abaji, Bwari, Kwali, and Kuje, while the PDP captured Gwagwalada.
