Wike to Coalition: Show your scorecard, not empty rants

By Ukpono Ukpong

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has challenged critics of the Tinubu-led administration, particularly members of the political coalition against the government, to present their performance records rather than spreading what he called “empty rants.”

Speaking during the commissioning of the newly rehabilitated 10-kilometre Aguma Palace–Radio Nigeria–New Market Road in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT, Wike said Nigerians can now see physical results of developments, not continous rhetoric.

He further mocked opposition figures who accused the administration of failing the people, questioning their achievements when they were in power.

“Some of you had the opportunity to be Senate President for eight years, Speaker for four years, and Minister of Transportation for eight years. Yet, you never brought joy to Nigerians. Now, you’re telling us how Nigerians are angry,” Wike said, addressing a visibly cheerful crowd.

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The FCT Minister took aim at an unnamed presidential aspirant in the opposition coalition, saying his bitterness stems from envy over the administration’s ongoing commissioning of impactful projects across the territory.

“Some people are pained that development is happening in the FCT. But Nigerians are not angry. Their faces today show they are happy.” he stated.

Wike emphasized that the Tinubu administration has prioritized community involvement in governance, noting that projects like the Gwagwalada road were not arbitrarily selected but nominated by the people themselves.

“We didn’t sit in the city and decide. We came, listened to the people, and responded to what they wanted,” he said.

While pointing out past failures by former office holders now in opposition, Wike described the current phase of governance as “Operation Show Your Scorecard.” He said his track record of defeating political giants and delivering projects speaks louder than the complaints of those seeking to return to power without performance credentials.

Referencing his political battles, Wike recalled how he defeated “a powerful governor” in 2015 and withstood well-funded opponents in 2019 and 2023.

“They’ve jumped from one party to another, now forming coalitions. But Nigerians know better. They won’t be deceived,” he added.

The Minister thanked the local contractors who handled the project, reiterating the administration’s policy of empowering indigenous firms.

“The roads here, the bus terminals, the War College road in Bwari, all done by local contractors. We believe in building local capacity,” he said.

Wike also praised the traditional rulers in Gwagwalada for supporting the project, stressing that their cooperation helped ensure its timely completion.

He encouraged residents to remain hopeful, promising more developmental projects tailored to the needs of rural communities.

Reiterating his support for President Tinubu, the Minister said the President has “changed the narrative,” showing that development can reach beyond the city centre.

“Let those who say they won’t be happy remain in their bitterness. For us, the people’s happiness is our victory,” he said.

In a final jab, Wike dismissed calls by opposition figures for public protests, daring them to lead the revolts themselves.

“You say Nigerians should revolt while your children are in London? Come lead it yourself in Rivers State. Then we will know you mean business,” he challenged.