The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed frustration over a council chairman’s public admission of being unable to provide security vehicles for agencies in his area. Speaking during an interview, the minister reflected on his tenure as a council chairman in 1999, highlighting his achievements in infrastructure and security despite receiving lower allocations than today.
“I cannot believe that a council chairman can come out to say that he is unable to buy security vehicle for security agencies in his area council even when the allocation has gone higher, unlike before.
He continued, “I was building police stations, I was providing everything—vehicles, logistics—for police stations when I was a council chairman.”
The minister emphasised that such public statements reflect poorly on the capability of elected leaders to deliver on promises. If you cannot provide basic security vehicles, how do you expect people to trust you to handle greater responsibilities? Leadership requires action, not excuses, he stressed.
On the broader issue of security, the minister discussed ongoing challenges in border areas of the FCT, where outlaws often cross into neighbouring states after committing crimes. He stressed the importance of interstate collaboration to address these security concerns and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with neighbouring states.
When asked about infrastructure development, particularly rail transport, the minister was candid about the financial limitations. He ruled out the construction of new rail lines, citing insufficient funding.
The minister reiterated his commitment to realistic and transparent governance, emphasizing the importance of practical solutions over making empty promises to win public favour.
