FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has declared that traditional rulers in Abuja do not demand bribes from contractors before infrastructure projects are carried out, describing the practice as a stark departure from what obtains in other parts of the country.

Wike made the remarks on Tuesday during the commissioning of the newly constructed Gomani-Dafa-Yangoji roads in Kwali Area Council, an event held to mark President Bola Tinubu’s third year in office. The minister, who was represented at some points during the ceremony, noted that the roads, spanning about 43 kilometres, fulfilled a promise made to the traditional ruler of Kwali and reflected the FCT Administration’s commitment to completing projects to their logical conclusion.

According to Wike, traditional rulers within the territory have consistently supported contractors to ensure that road projects and other developmental works are delivered to standard and to the benefit of residents. He contrasted this with what he described as a different pattern elsewhere in the country, where traditional rulers reportedly ask contractors what is in it for them before allowing projects to proceed, a practice he said often results in abandoned or poorly executed jobs once contractors comply.

The minister used the occasion to highlight the speed of delivery on the Kwali roads, pointing out that the project was awarded in November last year and completed by June this year, well within the eight to nine months he said he had requested of the contractor handling the job. He framed the achievement as evidence of the Tinubu administration’s broader commitment to infrastructure delivery in the territory, alongside the diligence of contractors who have kept to agreed timelines.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who represented President Tinubu, alongside other dignitaries and traditional rulers from the area. Wike’s remarks come against the backdrop of his evolving relationship with FCT traditional institutions, having previously been honoured with the “Hasken Abuja” chieftaincy title in recognition of his infrastructure drive and engagement with the territory’s indigenous communities.

Photo Credit: Metro Daily