By daring to challenge Senator Ireti Kingibe to a runoff in the 2027 elections, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has raised the stakes. The bold assertion was made by Wike on Monday during the inauguration ceremony for the Abuja Mabushi bus terminal project.
Wike criticized Kingibe's performance as a lawmaker, highlighting her ineffectiveness in healthcare and education, while praising the accomplishments of his administration under President Bola Tinubu, according to Channels Television. He boasted that his administration had accomplished great things in the FCT and challenged her to account for her legislative record.
The comments made by Wike were interpreted as an open challenge to Kingibe's power and achievement, revealing a political and personal rivalry between the two. A little bit disdainfully, Wike challenged Kingibe to run for office in Abuja in 2027, sure that he would come out on top.
In justifying his tenure and future political aspirations, the minister highlighted his extensive political network and preparedness to confront any obstacle. His remarks, which hint at a heated campaign in the next elections, emphasized the significance of government transparency and efficiency.
"That lawmaker has my complete attention," he said in part.If you are famous in 2027, come run with Abuja; we will let you down. With a tinge of rebellion, Wike stated. Is it truly your belief that everything will unfold similarly to what happened previously? This shall not happen again. If you are famous, you should just do it. It is a privilege to hold the office of minister of the FCT at the moment. I shall not be frightened; this is my realm. In his defense of his period in office and future political aspirations, Wike stressed the strength of his political ties and his readiness to confront any obstacles.