Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the conduct of the recent council elections in Abuja.
Wike expressed gratitude to the president for what he described as a peaceful electoral process across the territory. His remarks came after Tinubu earlier commended him, stating that his “remarkable achievements” contributed to the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the polls.
In a statement released by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, the minister said the outcome of the election aligns with the president’s leadership direction.
He also acknowledged ongoing development projects in the FCT. He said the election results have clarified “the ruling party and the real opposition party in the country.”
Wike addressed residents during a broadcast aired on television and radio stations. He described the election as proof of the people’s commitment to democracy and effective governance.
He criticised some political actors, accusing them of attempting to mislead voters.
He said the exercise exposed “the hypocrisy of people who go about buying corn and groundnut from roadside sellers for campaign optics to deceive Nigerians.”
“The residents of FCT demonstrated that they cannot be deceived by emergency democrats who have chosen not to see anything good in our country and its government,” the statement reads.
Wike stated that the outcome also shows the impact of the administration’s renewed hope agenda. He said it has helped restore confidence among residents.
He commended the president for backing electoral reforms. He pointed to the amendment of the Electoral Act as a step that has improved the credibility of elections.
The minister also appreciated residents of the FCT for participating in the process. He praised candidates who took part in the contest.
“To all the candidates who participated in the election, I commend your belief in our democracy. Your participation is proof of your commitment to ensuring that the voice of the minority is heard, even when the majority prevails,” he said.
Wike further applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting what he described as a credible election. He also commended security agencies for maintaining order.
He advised those elected to serve with humility and focus on improving the welfare of residents.
Results from the election showed that the APC secured five out of six chairmanship seats. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won the Gwagwalada area council. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) did not secure any chairmanship position.
