The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reiterated that his principal political focus remains securing a second term for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja after inspecting ongoing road infrastructure projects across the capital, Wike addressed recent political friction surrounding his political activities. He insisted that his dedicated efforts were entirely geared toward supporting the president’s continuation in office.

The minister strongly defended the cross-party initiative known as the “Rainbow Coalition,” dismissing accusations that the group was formed to weaken or destabilize existing political structures. Wike described the claims as baseless and disappointing, explaining that the coalition serves as a broad platform designed to gather support for President Tinubu from individuals across different political parties.

He emphasized that encouraging non-ruling party members and like-minded citizens to back the current administration should not be viewed as a threat to any political organization.

Wike drew parallels to the 2023 general election, pointing out that similar cross-party alliances, such as the G5 governors’ movement, did not disrupt party structures or prevent the president from winning. He questioned why critics were raising fresh concerns now, suggesting that political undertones and unspoken anxieties were driving the pushback against the Rainbow Coalition.

The FCT minister added that he remains unbothered by accusations and plans to address the underlying political motives behind the criticism in upcoming public appearances.

Addressing speculation about his long-term political ambitions for the 2031 presidential race, Wike brushed aside the rumors, stating that it is foolish to plan years ahead when human life remains uncertain. He noted that when President Tinubu completes his constitutionally allowed terms in 2031, the president will naturally have a say in his successor. Wike declared that he has no intention of working against the president’s interests when that time eventually arrives.

Alongside his political statements, the minister expressed satisfaction with the execution speed and construction quality of key road projects across the territory. He noted that engineering firms handling the major corridors, including the Southern Parkway and the road connecting Nile University to Ring Road 3, have committed to handing over completed projects ahead of schedule. Wike assured Abuja residents that these infrastructure upgrades will be fully delivered and commissioned before the start of the 2027 general elections.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper