-Special Report-
Wike’s
Abuja Offensive - Security, Sanity, and the Politics of Power
By
Solomon Etuk, Abuja Bureau Chief
ABUJA - In a media chat that felt more
like a declaration of war than a routine press briefing, Nigeria’s Honourable
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, laid bare his
uncompromising vision for the capital city.
Held at his official residence in Abuja, the session was a masterclass in political candour, administrative resolve, and rhetorical firepower.
Wike,
known for his blunt delivery and zero-tolerance stance, wasted no time in
addressing the growing concerns over insecurity and urban disorder in the FCT. He
issued a stern warning to illegal settlers, land speculators, and criminal
elements, declaring that the era of impunity was over. “We cannot continue to
use poverty as an excuse for lawlessness,” he said, drawing a sharp line
between economic hardship and criminal behavior. He cited global examples,
including China, where poverty exists but does not manifest in rampant
insecurity. His message was clear: Abuja must be safe, orderly, and governed by
the rule of law.
The
minister also took aim at undeveloped plots scattered across the city, many of
which have become havens for criminal activity. He announced that the FCT
Administration would begin revoking titles from absentee landowners who have
failed to develop their properties. “If you don’t develop your land, we’ll take
it back. We’re not begging anyone,” Wike declared, signaling a new phase of
urban renewal and enforcement.
In a
poignant moment, Wike confirmed the death of Mrs. Grace Adayilo, the first Head
of the Civil Service of the FCT. He described her passing as “deeply
saddening,” revealing that he had personally appealed to President Bola Tinubu
to extend her tenure due to her exceptional service. The minister’s voice
faltered as he reflected on her contributions, noting that had he received the
news earlier, he would have postponed the media engagement entirely.
But the
chat wasn’t just about policy, it was also political. Wike responded sharply to
recent comments by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who predicted a
poor electoral outcome for President Tinubu in 2027. Wike dismissed the
forecast as speculative and unfounded, asserting confidently that Tinubu would
win re-election. “Who is the alternative?” he asked rhetorically, challenging
El-Rufai to name a viable contender. He also took a swipe at Peter Obi, the
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, suggesting that Obi’s promise of a
one-term presidency was unrealistic. “No president enters office and sticks to
that. Circumstances will change,” Wike said.
Throughout
the session, Wike’s tone oscillated between defiant and reflective, painting
the portrait of a minister deeply invested in both the administrative and
political future of Nigeria’s capital. His remarks were not mere soundbites; they
were a manifesto of intent. From land reform to security, from political
loyalty to institutional memory, Wike made it clear that he is not just
managing Abuja, he is reshaping it.
As the
city braces for the ripple effects of his declarations, one thing is certain:
Nyesom Wike is not asking for permission. He is demanding results.
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