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January 29, 2026

Abuja Indigenes, residents coalition defends Minister Wike amid calls for removal

Abuja Indigenes, residents coalition defends Minister Wike amid calls for removal

A coalition of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) indigenes and residents organizations has strongly condemned ongoing calls for the removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging President Bola Tinubu to disregard such demands.

Led by Princess Ajibola, the group praised the visible transformation of Abuja since Wike assumed office, highlighting renewed momentum in infrastructure development, urban renewal, and governance.

“Since the appointment of Nyesom Ezenwo Wike as the Minister of FCT, the city has witnessed a renewed sense of purpose, urgency, and direction,” Ajibola stated. “The FCT is no longer defined by abandoned projects, endless excuses, or policy paralysis. Instead, we see action, courage, and results.”

She pointed to progress across the city centre and satellite towns, where long-neglected infrastructure projects are receiving attention, critical roads are being completed or revived, and urban renewal initiatives are moving from rhetoric to reality.

“Public order, land administration reforms, and the restoration of Abuja’s master plan are being pursued with uncommon political will,” Ajibola added. “For the first time in a long while, residents can clearly see where leadership is headed.”

The coalition expressed firm support for the minister, emphasizing that leadership involves making difficult but necessary decisions for the common good.

“Leadership is not about pleasing everyone; it is about doing what is right for the common good,” she said. “Transforming a capital city as complex as Abuja requires firmness, clarity of vision, and the courage to take difficult decisions. Minister Wike has demonstrated these qualities without apology.”

Ajibola underscored the group’s appreciation for the tangible progress being made.

“We, the indigenes and residents of the FCT, say clearly today: we see the work, and we appreciate the work,” she declared. “Let it be on record that the people of the FCT stand with him. We stand with him because development is happening. We stand with him because governance has direction. We stand with him because Abuja deserves leadership that works—not leadership that watches.”

The coalition called on all stakeholders to prioritize the capital’s development over political differences.

“The FCT is not a battleground for political vendettas. It is the capital of our nation and the home of millions of law-abiding citizens,” Ajibola noted. “We call on all political actors to put Abuja first. Allow the Minister to continue his work. Allow projects to be completed. Allow reforms to take root. Democracy thrives when leaders are judged by performance, not propaganda.”

The group also commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Wike, describing the decision as one rooted in national interest and competence.

“We must expressly appreciate and commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his vision, courage, and statesmanship in appointing Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, as the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory,” she said. “Mr. President’s decision rose above political affiliations, electoral history, and narrow sentiments. It reflected a clear understanding that nation-building requires competence, capacity, and courage, wherever they may be found.”

Ajibola highlighted that President Tinubu has publicly commended Wike’s performance on multiple occasions, viewing these statements as recognition of measurable progress and effective governance in the FCT.

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement, peace, and national unity, concluding with a message of encouragement to the minister.

“Honourable Minister, we encourage you to remain focused,” Ajibola said. “The voices of distraction are loud, but the voices of grateful citizens are louder. History will remember those who built, not those who tried to pull down.”

“In conclusion, we say with one voice: Transform the capital. Complete the work. The people are with you.”