FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has pushed back against allegations of vote-buying after offering N10 million rewards to councilors who deliver their wards for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting the money is an incentive for political mobilisation, not voter inducement.
Wike defended the offer on Tuesday during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, arguing that rewarding political organisers for meeting targets should not be confused with paying voters to influence their choices at the polls.
The minister said he had challenged the councilors to work hard, mobilise support and demonstrate their commitment, rather than distribute money to residents in exchange for votes.
To strengthen his argument, Wike drew a comparison with incentives given to athletes who win international competitions, noting that governments and organisations often promise houses and other benefits to encourage outstanding performances.
He also faulted media criticism of the offer, arguing that political rewards for mobilisation should be distinguished from financial inducements aimed at manipulating voters. He further questioned why campaign spending on advertisements attracted less scrutiny than the proposed incentive.
Beyond the political controversy, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of major infrastructure projects across the FCT, including Interchange Section 2, the Southern Parkway and the S1 Road, which features a fire station.
He said the projects remain on schedule for completion by December 15, ahead of the January 16, 2027 general elections, adding that the Tinubu administration’s infrastructure record would serve as a major selling point in its re-election campaign.
The minister maintained that his support for Tinubu was based on the administration’s development agenda rather than party loyalty, urging Nigerians to back policies and programmes he believes will drive national progress.
