Moses Paul, the coordinator of the Free Nigeria Movement, has strongly criticized Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), labeling his recent actions as "disgraceful". Paul's comments came in response to Wike's statement that Senator Ireti Kingibe will not return to the Senate in 2027.
In a report by Daily Post on Wednesday, Paul argued that Wike's actions highlight the broader issue of a lack of accountability in Nigeria. He accused the minister of prioritizing superficial changes over meaningful development and progress. Paul cited the recent commissioning of a bus stop motor park and Wike's derogatory comments towards Senator Kingibe as examples of this mismanagement.
Paul emphasized that despite receiving a substantial 1.2 trillion Naira to fix roads in the FCT, and an additional 93 billion Naira from the supplementary budget, Wike's focus has been on minor projects. This, according to Paul, is emblematic of a larger problem where significant funds are allocated but not effectively used for impactful development.
In his statement, Paul expressed his disappointment, noting that Wike's actions are a stark reminder of the entrenched issues of corruption, impunity, and mismanagement in Nigeria. He lamented the misappropriation of public funds for trivial projects which are then presented as major achievements, thereby undermining genuine progress.
Paul also praised Senator Kingibe for her courage in speaking truth to power and holding leaders accountable. He highlighted the importance of demanding tangible results and genuine accountability from public officials to ensure a brighter future for Nigeria.
Hear him: "Wike's actions in the FCT are nothing short of disgraceful. After commissioning a mere bus stop motor park, he had the audacity to derogate Senator Ireti Kingibe. This comes after he received a staggering 1.2 trillion naira to fix roads in the FCT, along with an additional 93 billion naira from the supplementary budget to complete ongoing projects that were already funded. Yet, instead of tangible progress, we see petty projects and public insults. Wike's behaviour epitomizes the lack of accountability plaguing Nigeria."