The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday threw down a challenge to David Mark, Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and opposition coalition stalwart Rotimi Amaechi, accusing them of misleading Nigerians with their rhetoric. Wike, speaking firmly, asserted that the coalition spearheaded by David Mark, Amaechi, and their allies had no realistic path to regaining political power come 2027. He made these remarks while addressing attendees during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated Aguma Palace–Radio Nigeria–New Market Road project in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT. The project, officially commissioned by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, formed part of initiatives planned to commemorate Tinubu’s second term in office. Using the event as a platform, Wike directly challenged David Mark, Amaechi, and the coalition’s leadership to present their performance records to Nigerians. Wike stated, “They claimed the coalition was formed 18 months ago, while Tinubu had only been in office for six months. You started forming your coalition while he was just six months into the presidency, yet you’ve been telling Nigerians that they are unhappy after such a short time in power.” He further highlighted the past opportunities these leaders had to make a difference while in public office. Wike pointed out that David Mark held the office of Senate President for eight years, while Amaechi was Speaker of a State Assembly for four years and later served as Minister of Transportation for another eight years. Despite these opportunities, Wike argued, neither leader had made tangible improvements to satisfy Nigerians. “They never made angry Nigerians happy,” Wike emphasized, “but after staying in office for just six months, you begin to complain about how Nigerians are angry.” Wike continued, “I have consistently challenged everyone to show their performance records. As Senate President, show the people of Benue State and Otukpo what you accomplished — was it just about flying in a helicopter to Otukpo? We are here, within just 16 days, showing our own scorecards with results on the ground.” He declared the moment as “Operation Show Your Scorecard,” challenging opposition figures to reveal their impact while in office. Wike maintained that God granted them the privilege to lead and serve Nigerians, but they failed to deliver happiness and progress. “Because you have left office, you are now claiming Nigerians are angry — just because you want to return to power,” Wike said, concluding with a strong statement: “You will not return to power.”
The Renewed Controversy Over PDP’s Running Mate Choice The debate over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) running mate selection during the 2023 presidential election has resurfaced. A report recently brought to light suggests that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was initially favored over Ifeanyi Okowa, a claim that contradicts former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s previous statements. Leaked Report Reignites Political Tensions The controversy was reignited by Mr. Lere Olayinka, an aide to Nyesom Wike. The PDP committee’s report, signed by former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu and other key leaders, was dated June 14, 2022, and reportedly sighted by LMSINT MEDIA. The report, titled “Report of the Advisory Committee for the Selection of Presidential Running Mate,” indicated the following preference order: The committee’s decision was based on the broader interests of the party. The report was signed by notable PDP figures, including Umar I. Damagun, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Bala Mohammed, Olusegun Mimiko, and David Mark. Atiku’s Claim vs. Wike’s Camp Response Atiku Abubakar, in an interview with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, claimed that the committee ranked Okowa as the top choice, with Wike coming second and Udom Emmanuel third. He defended his decision to pick Okowa based on the committee’s recommendation. However, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, accused Atiku of distorting facts. He urged the former Vice President to seek forgiveness, stating: “Someone needs to show this to Atiku so that he can seek forgiveness before Ramadan ends.” Olayinka further alleged that Atiku misrepresented the committee’s findings to justify his choice of Okowa. Atiku’s Camp Responds to Allegations Atiku’s media team dismissed Olayinka’s statements as an “emotional outburst” and reaffirmed that Okowa’s selection was based on intellect, composure, and statesmanship rather than party politics. In a statement, Atiku’s media office emphasized: “While we understand that bitterness often finds expression in misplaced aggression, we must remind Wike and his team that a bitter heart isn’t capable of charity, nor does it inspire unity, healing, or truth.” They reiterated that Atiku had no apologies for choosing Okowa over Wike, as the decision aligned with his vision for national leadership. Internal Party Division and Political Fallout The renewed controversy reflects the ongoing internal tensions within the PDP. While Wike’s faction insists on the validity of the leaked committee report, Atiku’s supporters maintain that his choice was the right decision for the party and the nation. This division highlights broader challenges within the PDP as it seeks to rebuild its political strategy ahead of future elections. Conclusion The verbal war between Atiku and Wike’s camps over Okowa’s selection as PDP’s running mate in 2023 underscores lingering political rivalries. As the PDP navigates these internal disputes, the party’s ability to unite and strategize for upcoming elections remains a critical concern. For further insights into Nigeria’s political landscape, check out our in-depth analysis on Nigerian Political Party Leadership and Election Strategy and Political Alliances. ThisDay Live’s analysis on PDP’s internal conflicts READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Atiku Reveals Why He Passed Over Wike for 2023 Vice Presidential Slot Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has shed light on the reasons behind his decision to overlook Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State, as his running mate for the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). LMSINT MEDIA recalls that Wike lost the PDP presidential primaries to Atiku, and many political analysts speculated that he would be selected as the vice-presidential candidate. However, Atiku ultimately chose Ifeanyi Okowa, the former Governor of Delta State, instead. The Decision That Sparked Political Tensions Atiku’s choice of Okowa over Wike reportedly fueled the ongoing political rift between the two politicians. Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was seen by many PDP stakeholders as a strong contender for the vice-presidential slot. In an exclusive interview for the television program “Untold Stories” with journalist Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, Atiku addressed the controversy surrounding his selection process. The interview, scheduled to air today, delves into his approach to choosing a running mate. Why Atiku Chose Okowa Over Wike Recalling the 2019 election, Atiku stated that he faced criticism for picking Peter Obi as his running mate without extensive consultation within the party. Learning from that experience, he decided to involve the PDP leadership in the 2023 selection process. “They said I did not consult with the party enough. So in 2023, I threw the whole thing to the party. I said, ‘Okay, set up a committee and recommend three people for me to pick as a running mate,’” Atiku explained. According to him, the PDP committee presented three names: Atiku emphasized that his decision was purely based on the committee’s ranking, stating: “So I picked number one.” No Regrets Over His Decision Despite the political fallout from his choice, Atiku remains firm in his stance. When asked if he had any regrets about not selecting Wike, he responded: “No, not at all.” For more insights into Nigeria’s political landscape, visit Premium Times – a trusted source for political analysis and updates. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Wike Condemns FCDA Secretary Over Gishiri Community Compensation Issues Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda, over alleged underpayment of compensation to displaced residents of Gishiri community. The controversy surrounds the Arterial Road N16 project, which runs through Gishiri in the Katampe District. The construction has stalled due to unresolved disputes over compensation and relocation affecting 455 residents. Wike’s Strong Reaction: Pay People Their Due Compensation During a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on Monday, an irate Wike addressed the allegations, making it clear that he would not tolerate any misconduct regarding compensation payments. “Go and pay people their rightful compensation—the exact amount I approved. I’m hearing disturbing reports, and if I find out you’re involved in any fraudulent dealings, you will regret it. If this happens again, you will be removed from your position,” Wike warned. He further emphasized that compensation should be awarded based on legal documentation, not tribal affiliation. “Government compensation is not determined by ethnicity. If a road project affects your land and you have valid ownership papers, you must be compensated accordingly. No one should be denied because they are non-indigenes.” Allegations Against FCDA Acting Secretary Residents of Gishiri community have raised concerns about the conduct of Engr. Dauda, accusing him of disregarding the minister’s instructions regarding their relocation. What’s Next? Resolving the Compensation Dispute With Wike’s firm stance on the matter, residents are hopeful that the FCDA will rectify the situation and ensure fair compensation. However, Engr. Dauda’s fate remains uncertain as the minister has made it clear that any further misconduct will not be tolerated. Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Renowned lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju, along with Vincent Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMark, led a protest against the mass demolitions initiated by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in Abuja. The demonstration included residents of Ruga, a settlement near Airport Road, who protested the destruction of their homes. This move came after Wike’s directive for the “Operation Sweep” task force to demolish settlements like Ruga and other areas in the capital as part of efforts to rid the city of perceived criminal activities and nuisances. Adeyanju expressed deep concern, highlighting that the task force had set fire to many homes and destroyed properties worth millions of naira. He called on President Bola Tinubu to take into account the situation of the impoverished residents who had already been displaced by insecurity in northern states such as Borno. “There is no justification for this demolition. We are appealing to the president to acknowledge the difficult situation these displaced residents are facing,” Adeyanju said. He added that most of the affected people had already been forced out of their homes in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe due to ongoing security challenges. READ ALSO: NDC Reacts to Ex-Governor Okowa’s Arrest for Alleged N1.3 Trillion Fraud
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed plans to gradually phase out tricycle operations in certain areas of Abuja’s city center. He made this announcement during the launch of the FCT Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Programme on Thursday. Wike emphasized the Federal Government’s dedication to enhancing the lives of young people in the FCT through this initiative. He clarified, “I’m not saying there will be no more Keke. Certain areas will still have them. We will first trial this in Maitama, Guzape, and Asokoro to assess its effectiveness.” He also raised concerns about some tricycle and taxi operators acting as informants for criminals and announced plans for security profiling of commercial bus and taxi drivers. He stated that from January, all drivers must have security approval and adhere to the designated Abuja taxi color scheme. Wike further mentioned that starting in January, no taxi or bus driver would be permitted to operate without meeting these security requirements. He assured that additional vehicles would be introduced to prevent shortages. READ ALSO: Police let go A Lagos businessman was arrested on $325,000 fraud charges. Additionally, Wike tasked Abdullahi Ango, the Mandate Secretary for the Youth Development Secretariat, with creating programs that will genuinely benefit the youth, focusing on skill acquisition. He emphasized that he would not allocate funds for conferences that do not contribute to youth development. Finally, Wike announced plans to revive the neglected skills acquisition center in Nyanya, Abuja, where young people can receive training in ICT and other valuable skills. We Love To Have You Back. Pease kindly Provide Us With Your Email.
