Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has offered a firm response to those questioning his political allegiance, stating that in the current political climate, the emphasis should be on effective governance, not party lines.
Speaking during the commissioning of a major road project in Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State from 58:53, Wike addressed ongoing scrutiny surrounding his dual position, serving as a minister in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government while still being a card-carrying member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a key figure in the PDP, has faced persistent criticism and speculation since accepting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ministerial appointment in 2023.
His role has fueled debate over political loyalty, party discipline, and the blurred lines of contemporary Nigerian politics.
However, Wike dismissed the controversy, asserting that the real concern for Nigerians should be the quality of leadership and the impact of government initiatives, rather than the political party affiliations of those in office.
“When people ask me, ‘Which party do you belong to?’ I respond, ‘Which party is constructing the roads in the FCT?’” he told the crowd. “We should be discussing which administration is actually working for the people, not which party someone belongs to.”
Wike’s remarks came as part of a broader message encouraging leaders at all levels to focus on performance and delivery.
He praised Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom for his developmental efforts in just two years, stating that such progress is proof of good governance, regardless of political background.
“I’m here not for politics,” Wike said. “I’m here to commend Governor Umo Eno. In just two years, his achievements are visible and commendable. Imagine what this state could look like if the same momentum is maintained over eight years.”
The FCT Minister used the opportunity to highlight his own record in Abuja since taking office.
He noted significant strides in infrastructure, public service delivery, and urban development under his leadership, developments he credited to President Tinubu’s willingness to prioritize competence over party lines.
According to Wike, his appointment by an APC president while remaining in the PDP is not a contradiction but a demonstration of political maturity and national focus. “The President didn’t appoint me because of my party. He appointed me because he wanted someone who could deliver results,” he said. “That is what matters.”
The minister also touched on the broader implications of this approach for Nigerian politics.
He argued that citizens are increasingly focused on governance outcomes rather than partisan loyalty, adding that what matters most to the electorate is the ability of leaders to deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Today, people are not interested in what party you belong to. They want to see roads, hospitals, schools, jobs. If you’re not doing that, then your party affiliation means nothing,” Wike asserted.
His statements are likely to intensify the ongoing national conversation about cross-party appointments and the future of political alignment in Nigeria. See, More, Here>>>>
