The Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has dismissed rumors that he collapsed and was flown for medical treatment in France, describing the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
The Minister dismiss the rumors while inspecting ongoing projects in the nation’s capital on Thursday.
Wike clarified that he has remained active in his duties, pointing out that he attended public engagements, including leading Abuja residents to Presidential Villa and participating in the President’s Iftar event.
“I don’t want to give credence to people who are only interested in spreading rumors. First of all, I am a human being, not a ghost. If someone collapses, it is a human being that collapses, not a ghost. Unfortunately, I did not collapse.”
“There was never a time I collapsed. There was never a time anybody took me anywhere for medical attention. People who spread such rumors should focus on reality,” he stated.
The Minister accused political detractors of fabricating the story to divert attention from the real issues in the country, saying, “I will sign their condolences.”
Progressing smoothly
Despite the controversy, Wike reaffirmed that several key infrastructure projects in the FCT are progressing smoothly and are on schedule for inauguration as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second anniversary celebrations.
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done so far, emphasizing that contractors are meeting their deadlines.
“I am very, very impressed with what I have seen. The contractors have confidence in us, and we are not lagging behind in terms of funding,” he assured.
He reiterated the need for residents and businesses in the FCT to fulfill their tax obligations, stating that the ongoing projects are direct benefits of taxpayer funds.
“As you can see, we are putting taxpayer money to work. Those who are supposed to pay their taxes should do so,” Wike urged.
Tangible development
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to infrastructural transformation in the FCT in line with the Renewed Hope initiative of the President, stating that his focus remains on delivering tangible development rather than engaging in political distractions.
“We will not be distracted. Our focus remains on delivering world-class projects that will benefit every resident of Abuja,” he stated.
With the World Championships and other major international events coming up, Wike assured that critical projects will be completed on time, ensuring that Abuja remains a model capital city in Africa.
The Minister embarked on the projects inspection tour in the company of some of his political associates led by Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, former Senate minority Whip, acting executive secretary FCDA, Engr Richard Yonana Dauda and Directors from the FCDA amongst others.
