Senator Ireti Kingibe has strongly criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, accusing him of implementing policies and projects that have made life increasingly difficult for residents of Abuja since he assumed office.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Kingibe argued that while Wike has launched several road construction projects, these efforts fail to address the daily struggles faced by the majority of Abuja’s residents.
“Yes, he’s building roads, but we don’t have a functioning public transport system. So, the bulk of Abuja residents do not actually benefit from these new roads,” she said.
The senator also questioned the minister’s decision to prioritise projects such as the renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) at a time when the city grapples with significant issues, including rising insecurity and reports of unpaid salaries among workers at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
Kingibe further criticised Wike’s handling of social welfare initiatives, particularly the termination of contracts for women street sweepers who had long provided essential services in the city.
“These women, many of whom are indigent and widows, have worked through several administrations. Traditionally, ministers have protected their jobs out of compassion,” she explained.
“But the current minister, despite repeated pleas and without consulting stakeholders, decided to terminate their jobs entirely. Worse still, he has not replaced them with any alternative programme or solution.”
She concluded by saying that most residents of the FCT now feel that Wike’s tenure has been marked not by inclusivity or development that benefits all, but by policies that have “made life as difficult as possible” for ordinary people.
