Why I chose Tinubu – Nyesom Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says the recent wave of defections by governors and top members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) shows that his decision to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was the right one.

Wike said this on Wednesday during the flag-off of construction work on the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway in Abuja.

He noted that many of those who once accused him of betraying the PDP by working for the APC are now joining the same party.

“I’ve been watching television and social media. The same people who said I wanted to destroy the PDP and that I was working for the APC are now in the APC,”

Wike said. “If that’s true, then they should thank me for helping them find the right path.”

His comment came after the recent defections of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri to the APC.

Both leaders said they moved because they share President Tinubu’s vision for the country.

With Diri’s defection along with 19 members of the Bayelsa House of Assembly the PDP now controls only eight states, down from 11 last year.

Wike, a former Rivers State governor and member of the G-5 group of PDP governors, said the defections show Tinubu’s leadership is working.

“In the past, governors were begging banks to lend them money for projects and salaries.

Now, banks are the ones chasing states. That’s because of the leadership of one man President Tinubu,” he said.

He added that Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, have helped states pay salaries and start development projects—something previous governments were afraid to do.

Wike also assured Abuja residents that his administration would continue delivering on its promises. He said the dualisation of the Outer Southern Expressway shows the FCT is making progress with the President’s support.

Speaking about the relocation of traders from Apo, he said the government had already received cost estimates for developing their new site, showing progress on the resettlement plan.

Wike praised the cooperation among FCT area council chairmen, saying leaders from different parties are now working together for the city’s progress.

“This has never happened before. All council leaders, no matter their political party, are united in supporting the FCT’s development,” he said.

He also acknowledged former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, who attended the event, and said the FCT administration plans to work with him on youth empowerment projects.

“This administration will continue to focus on infrastructure and youth development.

With people like Yobo involved, we can do more for young people in Abuja,” he added.

Wike concluded by saying Nigerians must learn to appreciate good leadership, no matter the political party.

“When you see leadership that is bold and visionary, you must acknowledge it,” he said. “That’s what our country needs decisive leaders who can deliver real results.”

The Outer Southern Expressway project is part of efforts to reduce traffic and improve transportation within Abuja.