Wike Refutes Reports of Media Ban, Prioritizes Education and Security

By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has refuted reports alleging that the Presidency banned him from holding media chats, describing the claim as false, baseless, and politically motivated.

Speaking during his monthly media parley in Abuja, following a 20-day project flag-off and commissioning exercise, the Minister urged Nigerians to disregard misleading reports often circulated by individuals pursuing selfish interests.

 

 

 

“Somebody said that the President has banned me from having a media chat. That is the same junk they carry. How will the President ban me from letting people know what the government is doing in the FCT?”

Clarifying his role, Wike stated that his media briefings were not on behalf of the Federal Government but were aimed at updating residents on activities of the FCT Administration under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.

He noted that those criticizing his regular media updates are the same individuals who previously accused the government of poor communication.

“I’m not speaking for the Federal Government. I’m letting the world know what we are doing in the FCT under Tinubu’s administration,” he emphasized.

The Minister announced that the next phase of FCT project commissioning will focus exclusively on the education sector, reinforcing the Administration’s commitment to improving learning infrastructure across the territory.

Addressing key issues in the FCT, Wike said open grazing remains a national security concern, revealing that the FCTA is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Livestock and stakeholders, including Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, to establish designated ranches for herders.

He expressed optimism that the issue will soon be resolved through coordinated efforts with security agencies.

On public transportation, the Minister disclosed that contracts have been awarded for the management of the Mabushi and Kugbo bus terminals, noting that the goal is to ease urban mobility and reduce congestion once the operational challenges are addressed.

Responding to concerns over recent revocations of undeveloped estate lands within River Park Estate, Wike clarified that the action was not targeted at individuals but aimed at ensuring compliance with land development regulations.

“The FCTA is not taking over people’s land. We are only ensuring that beneficiaries develop their allocations within the stipulated time frame,” he said.

Reassuring residents about the security situation in the territory, the Minister emphasized that isolated incidents do not define the overall safety of Abuja.

He reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity but cautioned that not all issues can be solved simultaneously.

“We are addressing the challenges one step at a time, and residents should be assured that the FCT remains safe,” he added.

On the national political scene, Wike commented on the recent defection of some PDP Governors to the APC, saying the move reflects internal instability within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He called on the PDP leadership to resolve internal disputes, particularly the issue surrounding the position of the National Secretary, before seeking to challenge the ruling APC.

While reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, the Minister dismissed rumors of an impending defection to the APC.

“I remain a member of the PDP. But the party must follow due process. I will not participate in any illegal convention,” Wike asserted.

Responding to reports that IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, listed him as a witness in his ongoing trial, Wike said he was unaware of the reasons but would appear in court if officially subpoenaed.

He also commented on the recent protests by IPOB supporters, assuring that security agencies are on top of the situation.

The Minister further debunked claims that he influenced the appointment of the INEC Chairman, describing such allegations as “totally rubbish” and urging Nigerians to ignore baseless media propaganda.

Wike reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and open communication with FCT residents, stating that regular media briefings are essential for accountability and for keeping the public informed about ongoing and future projects.