The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Thursday criticised former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a “serial contestant and loser.”
Wike made the remarks while inspecting ongoing road projects in Abuja, in response to Atiku’s recent criticism of the current administration.
“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 FCT during his tenure with current developments.
“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 stressed that governance would not be hindered by political distractions, noting that ongoing projects would proceed as planned.
“The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he said.
Wike assured residents that major road projects across the FCT would be completed on schedule, disclosing that the Airport–Kuje road is nearing completion, with part of the bridge expected to be opened next week.
“Before the end of May, the entire job will be handed over,” he said.
He also revealed that the first phase of the Kuje–Gwagwalada road dualisation, covering about seven kilometres, would 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 are expected to transform Kuje into a major hub, reduce congestion in 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 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 reiterated that political activities would not slow down development in the FCT, adding that most ongoing projects would be completed before January.
“Our focus is clear: deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving,” he said.
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