FCT Minister Nyesom Wike defended his reforms in Abuja, stating that his administration’s success stems from his willingness to do what his predecessors could not—make difficult decisions, regardless of whom they upset.
“I have found that most of them do not have the courage to annoy people, to step on toes,” he said. “I have a lot of interest. I take joy. When I step on the toes of big men, those who say that nothing will happen, I take joy.”
Wike said his confrontational leadership style is key to his results. “Something will happen. It will happen. It makes me happy. All you want is to take a decision against the poor people. But here in rich man who says, nothing will happen? Something will happen! And that’s why we are getting results.”
Addressing criticism of his policies on land administration, he stated: “You paid for two years for example and your tenancy will expire tomorrow, you are coming to tell the landlord that it is the duty of the landlord to now remind you.”
He added that Abuja residents must take responsibility, especially on matters like land tax. “Most of the elites, they own properties overseas, but they remember that they must pay their taxes. If they don’t pay their taxes, government will take over their property. Here in Nigeria, nothing will happen.”
