The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed comments by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing them as politically motivated.

Speaking during a media engagement, Wike said he no longer attaches importance to Obi's views, alleging that the former presidential candidate interprets every national issue through a political prism. "I don't value anything Peter Obi says. Everything for him is politics," the minister said.

Wike also called on Nigerians to appreciate the Federal Government for embarking on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing it as a transformative infrastructure initiative capable of boosting economic growth, improving transportation, creating jobs and enhancing regional connectivity.

His remarks come amid growing public debate over the multi-billion-naira project, with some residents, environmental advocates and critics raising concerns that ongoing construction activities may be contributing to flooding in parts of Lagos and nearby communities following recent heavy rainfall.

Critics have urged the government to strengthen environmental impact mitigation measures and improve drainage systems in affected areas. Despite the concerns, Wike maintained that large-scale infrastructure projects often face criticism during implementation but ultimately deliver long-term economic and social benefits.

He argued that the coastal highway should be viewed as a strategic national investment rather than a political issue. On the nation's political landscape, the FCT minister also expressed doubts about the ability of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to reclaim power in the 2027 presidential election.

According to Wike, it would be difficult for the PDP to win the presidency unless the party resolves its internal crises, strengthens its leadership and presents a united front ahead of the next general election.

The minister, a prominent member of the PDP who currently serves in President Bola Tinubu's administration, said political parties cannot expect electoral success while grappling with persistent internal divisions.