Wike Defends Tinubu’s Reforms, Slams Opposition’s “Stomach-Driven” Coalition Agenda

By Sofiat Adenekan

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has launched a scathing rebuke of opposition political parties, accusing them of lacking sincerity in their recent coalition efforts and asserting that their motivations are rooted in personal gain rather than national interest.

Speaking during a Thanksgiving service at St James Anglican Church, Asokoro, to mark the successful completion of key infrastructural projects in the FCT, Wike strongly defended President Bola Tinubu’s administration and its reform agenda. The service also commemorated the President’s second year in office.

In a pointed address, Wike dismissed the opposition’s claim of intending to “rescue Nigeria” as politically opportunistic. “They want to rescue their stomachs, not Nigeria,” he said. “They have moved from party to party in every election cycle, not out of principle, but out of desperation. How can a group with no ideological consistency claim to offer a national rescue mission?”

The Minister’s remarks come amid growing activity among opposition elements forming new alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections. But Wike challenged their credibility and called for accountability. “Present your scorecards. What did you achieve when you held power? Nigerians remember the bombings, the economic mismanagement, and the silence on critical issues,” he stated.

He contrasted the opposition’s record with what he described as the “bold and progressive steps” taken by the Tinubu administration. Highlighting policy shifts such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the restructuring of FCTA’s finances, Wike credited President Tinubu with increasing monthly state allocations and boosting infrastructure investment in the capital.

Wike emphasized that recent reforms — including withdrawing the FCTA from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and appointing committed civil servants as Permanent Secretaries — have unlocked funding for critical infrastructure. He also cited the successful rehabilitation of the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre as a sign of renewed focus on institutional growth and revenue generation.

Calling for patience and unity, the Minister appealed to religious leaders and citizens to continue supporting the administration. “What we inherited was not a perfect system. The road to national renewal is not easy, but we are making progress,” he said.

Earlier in his sermon, Venerable (Dr.) Benjamin Idume, Archdeacon and Vicar of the host church, praised Wike’s performance as divinely ordained. “I thank God that your appointment was sustained, and you have silenced the doubters,” the cleric said, urging continued prayers for the Minister and President Tinubu.

The event drew a cross-section of dignitaries from across the country, including political leaders, senior government officials, and members of the diplomatic corps. Notable attendees included Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Senate Committee Chairman on FCT Area Councils, Senator David Jimkuta, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Martins Amaehule, and former Governors Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

In recognition of his public service, Wike was honored with an Award of Excellence as an Ambassador of Christ by the Anglican Church — a symbolic endorsement of his stewardship in the FCT.