Wike speaks on govt steps amidst economic crisis, dismisses coalition allegations

Wike speaks on govt steps amidst economic crisis, dismisses coalition allegations


By Abdullahi Muhammad

Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Barr Nyesom Wike, has demonstrated strong support for the federal government’s emergency economic measures, while pushing back against accusations of political interference.

Wike speaking at a media parley addressing the nation’s deepening fiscal challenges, warning of a looming crisis where “civil servants will not be paid” if swift decisions are not taken to address revenue shortfalls across states.

Wike emphasized the urgency of a one off intervention, insisting that such measures were necessary to prevent further deterioration of public service delivery at both state and local government levels. “This is an emergency. You’re seeing states that can’t pay salaries. You’re seeing local governments with no elections, no structure to even demand accountability. We can’t keep acting like everything is fine,” he said.

Wike dismissed suggestions that he was behind the disruption of a recent factional meeting within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He questioned the legitimacy of claims that there were distinct factions and denied any involvement in instructing security agencies to seal off venues. “Which factions are you talking about? You must be able to name them. I was acting on a letter from the National Chairman and Secretary to provide security. The governors held their meeting peacefully. What are they talking about?” he stated.

He criticized what he termed “lazy politicking” by some opposition members, accusing them of using public anger for selfish gains. “Some people only remember Nigerians are angry when they are not in power. When they were Senate President, Minister, or Governor for eight years, were Nigerians not angry then? What projects did they bring? What change did they deliver?” Wike queried pointedly.

Wike also touched on the contentious topic of national unity and peace, stressing that the responsibility to ensure peace lies with everyone. “Do you believe there’ll be no peace? It depends on you. It depends on me. We have made peace. Even former governors are supporting peace,” he said, while cautioning that some individuals profit from unrest and would do everything to sustain chaos.

As internal party struggles continue to surface, Wike reiterated that the decisions being made now, though unpopular to some, are for the long term survival of Nigeria’s democracy. “The decisions we take today, even if not everyone is happy, are necessary. Those who thrive in crisis want to go on TV and attack. That money is no longer available. They are angry,” he asserted.

Responding to criticisms from opposition figures claiming Nigerians are frustrated, Wike called out their past records in office, especially on issues like heavy foreign debt and lack of infrastructure. “You put Nigeria into debt. You were flying helicopters. Were Nigerians not angry then? You now want to ‘rescue’ Nigeria? Rescue it from what, yourselves?” he said.

Wike defended the actions of President Tinubu’s administration, stating that while the reforms are tough, they are necessary. “This president came in and took bold steps. We may not like the initial pain, but it had to be done. Today, states are getting more money. Abuja is being developed. And people say Nigerians are angry? History will judge each of us,” he added.