The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said the wave of defections by governors and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has vindicated his earlier decision to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Wike stated this on Wednesday during the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway in Abuja. He said those who once accused him of destabilising the PDP by working for the APC are now joining the same party.
“I have been watching daily on television and social media. The same people who said I wanted to destabilise the PDP and that I was working for the APC are all now in the APC,” Wike said. “So, if that’s true, they should commend me for doing a good job in paving the way for them.”
His comments come amid a series of high-profile defections from the PDP in recent days.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri both announced their resignation from the PDP and defection to the APC, citing alignment with President Tinubu’s vision.
Diri’s defection, along with 19 members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, reduces the number of PDP governors to eight, down from 11 in October 2024.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a key figure in the G-5 group of aggrieved PDP governors, described the ongoing political realignment as a testament to Tinubu’s “visionary and pragmatic leadership,” which he said has strengthened Nigeria’s fiscal and infrastructural framework.
“In the past, governors were running from bank to bank to fund projects and pay salaries. Today, because of the leadership of one man, banks are the ones running to states,” he said.
“President Tinubu has created the financial space for every state and the FCT to not only meet salary obligations but also execute meaningful projects.”
He added that no state government can now claim it cannot pay salaries or embark on development projects, noting that Tinubu’s economic reforms—particularly the removal of fuel subsidy—were bold decisions previous administrations avoided.
The Minister reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling promises to FCT residents, citing ongoing infrastructural projects as evidence of improved governance and coordination under the Tinubu presidency.
“When we commissioned the Apo to Wassa road, we made a promise to dualise the Outer Southern Expressway. Today, by the grace of God and with the support of Mr. President, we are fulfilling that promise,” Wike said.
On the relocation of Apo traders, he disclosed that the administration had received cost estimates for infrastructure development at the new site, indicating progress on the long-awaited resettlement plan.
Commending the spirit of collaboration among FCT area council chairmen, Wike noted that leaders from all political backgrounds were working together for the capital’s development.
“This has never happened before. All council leaders, regardless of political platform, are working together to support the administration of the FCT. That’s the kind of unity we need to move the territory forward,” he said.
Wike also acknowledged former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, who attended the flag-off ceremony, hinting at plans to partner with him on youth development initiatives.
“This administration will continue to prioritise infrastructure and youth empowerment. With people like Yobo on board, we will see how we can work together for the benefit of the young people of Abuja,” he said.
He emphasised the need to recognise and support good leadership, regardless of political affiliation.
“It doesn’t matter what party you belong to. When you see leadership that is purposeful and visionary, you must acknowledge it. That’s what the country needs now—decisive, bold leadership that delivers results.”
The construction of the Outer Southern Expressway carriageways is part of the FCT Administration’s efforts to ease traffic congestion and enhance urban mobility in the capital.
