The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has rejected claims that his political allies are planning to rig the upcoming Area Council elections, stating that such accusations are baseless and stem from opponents who have nothing to offer the electorate.
Wike made this statement on Tuesday during the commissioning of the Right-Hand Service Carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway, linking Ring Road Three to the Outer Northern Expressway.
According to The PUNCH, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the FCT Area Council elections for February 21, 2026. In preparation, political parties have commenced the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms for chairmanship and councillorship positions and have begun setting dates for primary elections.
Speaking at the event, Wike asserted that candidates aligned with his administration can campaign on the strength of completed projects, including roads, schools, and transport terminals, rather than relying on rhetoric.
“Those contesting should show the people what they’ve done. We, on our part, will point to roads, schools, and terminals. That is our campaign. Let no one claim rigging after losing. The real rigging is the development we’ve delivered,” Wike said.
He also revealed that the newly commissioned road project, initially awarded in 2014 for N7 billion, was completed at a revised cost of N31 billion due to variations.
Wike praised President Bola Tinubu for his continued support, emphasizing that road infrastructure is essential for attracting investors and driving economic growth.
“Without roads, no investor will come. We’re grateful to Mr. President for backing the FCT’s development agenda. His support has enabled us to deliver visible results for Abuja residents,” the minister concluded.
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