Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized the newly formed opposition coalition for what he described as an attempt to exploit Nigerians for personal political gains.
Speaking during his monthly media parley at his official residence in Abuja on Thursday, Wike dismissed the motives behind the coalition, which recently adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political platform.
“Just because some individuals have personal grievances, they now claim Nigerians are angry and go ahead to form a coalition. Let’s take the issues of this country seriously,” Wike said.
He challenged the coalition’s key figures to present their performance records while in public office, questioning their credibility and sincerity.
“I challenge all of them—show us your scorecards. When you were in charge, what did you do to improve Nigeria?” he asked.
Wike’s comments are seen as a direct response to recent political realignments involving former top officials and opposition figures seeking to rally under a new political front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
FCT Teachers’ Strike: Wike Says Debt Not Admin’s Responsibility
On domestic issues within the FCT, the minister addressed the ongoing teachers’ strike, stating that the crisis stems from unpaid arrears owed by the area councils, not the FCT administration.
Wike revealed that the total debt owed to the teachers is estimated at ₦18 billion, a sum he said the administration is not directly liable for.
“The FCT Administration is not responsible for paying those arrears—it is the duty of the six area councils,” he explained.
He noted that, in an attempt to compel action, the FCT had withheld the 10% share of internally generated revenue (IGR) meant for the area councils, but acknowledged that this measure alone may not resolve the situation.
“We’ve taken steps within our powers, but the burden lies with the councils. We cannot take over debts we did not incur,” Wike added.
The teachers’ strike has disrupted academic activities in public schools across the FCT, prompting calls from civil society and parent groups for urgent resolution.
