The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced a ₦10 million cash incentive for every local councillor in the FCT who successfully secures their ward for President Bola Tinubu and all All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Monday during a Rainbow Coalition stakeholders meeting in the Kwali Area Council, Wike urged local representatives to active their grassroots networks. The event was attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, and local residents.
“Any councillor that delivers his ward will get N10 million reward. Therefore, go and meet your leaders, go and meet your youth groups, go and consult with associations. Let us deliver our ward to Mr President,” Wike told the crowd.
During the gathering, Wike formally declared his support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid while also endorsing Senator Philip Aduda for the FCT Senate seat and Danladi Chiya for the Abuja South Federal Constituency seat. Expressing confidence in the region, the minister stated that area councils such as Kwali, Gwagwalada, and Abaji remain firmly behind the ruling party.
Defense of SUV Allocation to Traditional Leaders
Wike used the platform to address public criticism regarding his administration’s decision to provide brand-new Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to first-class traditional rulers across the capital territory. Dismissing allegations that the vehicles served as political inducements or bribes, he argued that royal fathers deserve respect and proper transportation.
He questioned why executive aides and political appointees ride in high-end vehicles while traditional rulers are expected to face transportation hardship. Wike maintained that his administration will continue to prioritize the welfare and dignity of traditional stools regardless of public criticism.
Criticism of Opposition Over Judicial Rulings
Addressing national politics, the FCT minister accused opposition parties of maintaining double standards when reacting to court decisions. He argued that opposition leaders routinely praise the judiciary when rulings favor their interests, only to accuse the administration of manipulating judges whenever legal outcomes go against them.
Wike pointed to past court victories by opposition platforms as examples, questioning the consistency of critics who claim democracy is threatened only after suffering legal setbacks.
Focus on Infrastructure and Councillor Pay
Highlighting the achievements of the current administration, Wike noted that over 270 kilometres of road projects are currently underway across FCT satellite towns, including 95 kilometres in Kwali alone. Many of these road projects are slated for inauguration in December.
He also pointed out key structural reforms under President Tinubu, such as:
- Establishing the FCT Civil Service Commission and appointing a dedicated Head of Service.
- Granting financial autonomy to local area councils.
- Upgrading infrastructure and expanding employment opportunities for residents.
Responding to concerns raised by Gambo Hamza, Chairman of the National Councillors Forum of Nigeria (FCT Chapter), regarding the current monthly salary of ₦260,000 for local councillors, Wike promised to review their remuneration structure.
Political representatives from both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the FCT, including APC Chairman Ishaku Yamawo and PDP counterpart Mohammed Dogara, commended Wike’s developmental footprint and expressed strong alignment with the 2027 re-election agenda.