CurrentReport Blog Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has publicly criticized Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT, for allegedly prioritizing infrastructural development over the welfare of the city’s residents. Kingibe’s remarks were made during an interview on Arise TV, where she expressed the growing dissatisfaction among FCT residents with Wike’s performance.
Senator Kingibe compared Wike’s role to that of a governor or president, suggesting that his focus on infrastructure projects has sidelined the pressing needs of the community. “The minister may be a great minister in a Ministry that has no people,” Kingibe remarked. “But the unique situation of the FCT minister is that apart from infrastructure and roads, he also has to take into consideration the needs of the people in that community.”
Kingibe emphasized that while road projects and infrastructure development are important, they do not address the immediate concerns of the FCT’s population. She stated, “That is the difference, it is just like a governor telling you he built some roads, so he doesn’t care what the needs of people are. The FCT people have needs. The people are not impressed.”
Since President Bola Tinubu’s administration took office on May 29, several roads completed under Wike’s supervision have been inaugurated across the FCT. During one such inauguration, President Tinubu praised Wike for his achievements, describing him as an “inspiration” and defending his appointment despite prior reservations.
However, Senator Kingibe’s comments highlight a contrasting perspective, pointing to a rift between the focus on infrastructural advancement and the socio-economic needs of Abuja’s residents. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the FCT administration will balance development projects with addressing the community’s needs.
