The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticized former political officeholders who, despite spending years in power without delivering tangible development, are now positioning themselves as saviours of Nigeria.
Speaking on recent developments, Wike pointed out the hypocrisy of individuals who once paid as little as N50 million annually but have now amassed over N700 million in just three weeks, claiming they want to rescue the nation. “That’s their agenda,” he said. “When you stand against them, they resort to smear campaigns.”
He challenged the credibility of politicians who held office for up to two decades without improving their states. “These same people had the opportunity to develop their regions but failed. Back then, Nigerians weren’t outraged. Now that they’re out of office, they claim Nigerians are angry,” he stated.
Wike contrasted this with his own record. “If I say I want to rescue Nigeria, ask me what I did as governor of Rivers State. I have a track record—I can point to what I achieved. Even now, as FCT Minister, I can show what I’m doing.”
Addressing the issue of national security and corruption, Wike noted that many of the problems currently blamed on President Bola Tinubu predate his administration. “The Kaduna train bombings—did they happen under Tinubu? No. The oil subsidy fraud—was he president then? No. But now, a leader has finally said, ‘Enough is enough.’ We can’t let a few individuals continue enriching themselves at the country’s expense.”
He also highlighted disparities in federal allocations, stating, “As governor, my state never received more than ₦14 billion monthly. Today, some states are getting over ₦50 billion.”
Wike concluded by urging Nigerians to remain patient and support the current administration. “All I ask of the Church is patience and continued prayers for the President. Let’s forget those who failed to fix Nigeria when they had the chance—they won’t get another one.”