The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, stating that the path is clear amid what he described as the collapse of opposition coalition efforts driven by personal interests.
Speaking on Monday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects, Wike dismissed claims of a united opposition, insisting that no credible coalition currently exists.
“There is no coalition. What you see are personal and selfish interests,” he said. “The moment some individuals fall out with the leadership of the country or fail to get what they want, they regroup and claim the government is not performing, presenting themselves as agents of change. In reality, they are only pursuing their own interests.”
Wike cited recent remarks by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, as evidence of internal discord within the opposition. Lawal had criticised electoral malpractice and reportedly described former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as a “rigging machine.”
“If you understand politics, you will see that the structure was already tilted in favour of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar,” Wike said. “There is no need to pretend about any coalition. It simply does not exist.”
He added that Lawal’s comments reinforced his position on the disunity within opposition ranks.
“For Babachir to speak in that manner shows that things are not well within those so-called political groups. So there is no need to worry about the strength of any coalition. There is none. The coast is very clear for Mr President’s re-election in 2027,” he said.
Meanwhile, the FCT minister also inspected key road projects, including the Gbazango Road, popularly known as Arab Road, and Pai Road III, ahead of their commissioning to mark President Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
He disclosed that the Gbazango Road project, executed by Zeberced, is among those slated for commissioning during a month-long programme of activities.
“We visited Gbazango Road, also known as Arab Road, which has been constructed by Zeberced. It is one of the projects lined up for commissioning as part of the President’s third anniversary,” Wike said.
He noted that the inspection was unannounced to residents, with prior notice given only to the contractor to allow for an objective assessment of the project.
“We are impressed with the quality of work, particularly the drainage system and the installation of streetlights. The people are happy, and we are equally satisfied. This shows that we are ready for the anniversary celebrations as promised,” he added.
Wike commended the contractor for delivering on schedule and confirmed that the commissioning exercise would commence on Monday, August 8.
“As agreed, the contractor has met expectations, and we commend them for a job well done. By Monday next week, August 8, we will begin the commissioning of projects,” he said.
Reacting to the positive reception from residents, Wike said the development reflects the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda in improving the lives of citizens.
“This demonstrates that Renewed Hope is making a difference. Conditions were difficult before, but things are improving. Many residents never imagined they would benefit from such infrastructure. Now they understand what governance truly means—delivering tangible improvements to their lives,” he said.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sustaining development efforts.
“The essence of governance is to improve the lives of the people. We will continue to do more, deliver more projects, and ensure that the benefits of governance reach the people. That is what Renewed Hope represents, and it is working,” Wike added.