Key Points

• Wike denies nominating anyone for INEC chairmanship.

• He says reports of a boycott are false and baseless.

• Credits Tinubu’s leadership for visible FCT development.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has dismissed reports claiming he boycotted last week’s Council of State meeting because of the new Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairmanship appointment.

Speaking on Tuesday during the commissioning of an access road in Dakibiyu, Jabi District of Abuja, Wike described the reports as “cheap propaganda and blackmail.”

He said he had no nominee for the INEC job and never opposed President Bola Tinubu’s choice.

“I told the Minister of State to represent me at the Council of State meeting because I had other official engagements,” Wike said.

“I had already informed Mr. President that I would not be available. People went ahead to claim I was absent because my nominee wasn’t picked for INEC chairmanship — that is false.”

Wike Refutes Political Motives

The minister’s clarification came after speculation that his absence was linked to political tension over President Tinubu’s nomination of Prof. Joash Amupitan as INEC chairman.

Wike, a former Rivers State governor, said he works strictly in line with Tinubu’s vision and has no role in who leads the electoral body.

“I work for Mr. President. His decisions are always focused on putting the country on the right track,” he said. “Those spreading these stories have run out of ideas.”

Focus on FCT Development

Wike urged Nigerians to ignore false political claims and focus on the ongoing transformation in the FCT.

He noted that several infrastructure projects are already changing the capital’s landscape.

“They said we are only building roads. I say, calm down. Soon they will see us building schools,” he said.

“Every morning, FCT projects make the news, and that’s what governance should be about.”

He praised contractors and the FCT Administration officials for completing the Dakibiyu road on schedule.

He also thanked Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud for her “rare cooperation and teamwork.”

“It’s not easy for two ministers to work closely and harmoniously,” Wike said. “I was once a Minister of State, so I know what collaboration means.”

Tinubu’s Leadership ‘Delivering Results’

Wike credited President Tinubu’s leadership for the visible progress in Abuja. According to him, residents can expect more completed projects as the administration approaches its third anniversary.

“No matter how much you dislike anyone, someone must win an election,” he said.

“Even if you don’t like the President, can you honestly say nothing is happening in the FCT? What you see here is the dividend of democracy — and more is coming.”