Wike Blasts Atiku as ‘Serial Contender, Loser,’ Vows to Deliver Abuja Roads by May
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Thursday launched a scathing attack on former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a “serial election contestant and loser” who, he claimed, would still be in the race by 2031.
Wike’s remarks came in response to Atiku’s criticism of the current administration, in which the former Vice President alleged that little had been achieved to improve the lives of Nigerians.
Speaking during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Abuja, the FCT Minister dismissed the claims, insisting that visible infrastructure development across the territory contradicts such assertions.
“Atiku is a serial failure. He is a serial contestant and loser, and I am sure that in 2031, he will still contest. Nigerians will be laughing at such statements that nothing positive has been done,” Wike said.
The minister challenged Atiku to compare Abuja’s current state with what obtained during his tenure as Vice President, arguing that the difference in infrastructure and development is evident.
“Let him compare the FCT now with when he was in office. Can he honestly say what we have today is the same as then?” Wike queried.
Despite the political exchanges, Wike stressed that governance would not be derailed by electioneering, noting that contractors remain focused on delivering projects.
“The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he added.
He assured residents that key road projects, particularly those linking satellite towns, would be completed on schedule to improve connectivity and ease congestion in the city centre.
According to him, the Airport–Kuje road project is nearing completion, with a section of the bridge expected to be opened next week, while full delivery is slated for the end of May.
On the Kuje–Gwagwalada road, Wike said the first phase of the dualisation project, covering about seven kilometres, would also be ready before the end of May.
“I am satisfied with the progress and quality of work being delivered,” he noted.
The minister added that the ongoing infrastructure push would transform Kuje into a major urban hub, attracting new residents and investors while reducing pressure on Abuja’s city centre.
“Very soon, Kuje will no longer be just a satellite town. People will move there, build houses, and the pressure on the city will reduce,” he said.
Wike also dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that the FCT Administration attempted to frustrate its convention by targeting the Rainbow Event Centre, denying any involvement.
“I don’t even know where that place is. There was no interference from anybody. These people should stop looking for sympathy,” he said.
He further challenged the party to provide evidence of any official communication regarding the use of the Eagle Square, insisting due process was not followed.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, Wike disclosed that over 80 per cent of planned projects would be completed before January, stressing that the focus remains on delivering infrastructure and improving residents’ quality of life.
The inspection tour forms part of the FCT Administration’s efforts to ensure contractors meet deadlines and maintain quality standards across ongoing projects.
