Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has publicly stated that former FCT Minister Nasir El-Rufai performed better than the current minister, Nyesom Wike, despite Wike’s ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja.
Speaking on the Channels Television programme Political Paradigm on Tuesday, Kingibe argued that Wike’s projects have not sufficiently benefited ordinary residents of Abuja and that the minister appears disconnected from their fundamental needs.
Kingibe emphasized that successful leadership in the FCT requires more than just infrastructure development. She criticized the praise directed at Wike’s performance, stating that his projects do not address the essential daily needs of residents, such as security, water, and basic amenities that directly impact their livelihoods. According to her, “If you ask any FCT person who has been the minister who has performed the most in the FCT, they will tell you El-Rufai. Why? El-Rufai built roads, he also responded to the needs of the people.” She further noted that El-Rufai was more engaged with the grassroots, addressing major problems without deflecting responsibility or relying on intermediaries.
Kingibe highlighted the example of the relocation of the abattoir, pointing out that Wike’s administration failed to provide adequate infrastructure, security, or water in the new location, illustrating a lack of responsiveness to residents’ concerns. She concluded that a minister must be receptive and empathetic to the people’s needs to identify and address lapses effectively.
In response, Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to Wike, dismissed Kingibe’s comments as political distractions. Olayinka urged the senator to focus on the welfare of her legislative aides, alleging that many had left due to unpaid salaries and entitlements for up to six months.
Nasir El-Rufai’s tenure as FCT Minister was marked by significant urban reforms, including road construction and responding to residents’ needs, though it was also controversial for forced evictions and demolitions aimed at restoring Abuja’s master plan. His approach earned him the nickname “Mr Demolition,” reflecting his strict enforcement of urban planning policies.
Meanwhile, Wike’s administration has been credited with revenue generation and infrastructural development in Abuja, though some critics question the inclusiveness and impact of these projects on everyday residents
