Paul Ibe, Media Adviser to former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has criticized the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, over remarks suggesting youths in Abuja pursue taxi driving as a viable career.
Ibe warned against portraying the youth as limited to taxi work, highlighting that economic hardship, not choice, often pushes young Nigerians into such jobs.
Wike’s comments came on Thursday during a car handover ceremony to FCT youths, aimed at promoting commercial driving.
In his address, Wike encouraged recipients to feel empowered rather than ashamed, noting that many Nigerians willingly take up similar roles abroad.
Reacting on X, Ibe called Wike’s statement misleading, pointing out that systemic issues, not youth preferences, perpetuate this reliance on gig economy jobs.
“This is a big fat lie. Nigerian youths did not create this economic situation…Megalomaniacs did and continue to deny them opportunities through failed policies,” Ibe posted.
He added that while some youths earn a living through platforms like Uber and Bolt, their potential is far greater.
“Is this what you want to reduce our youths to: driving taxis? Nigerian youths are better than that…their limitations lie with those who mortgage their future,” Ibe emphasized.
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