Wike Promises No FCT Judge Will Live In Rented Apartment Before Tinubu’s First Term Ends

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has pledged that before the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first term, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented apartment. Wike made the promise on Monday during the flag-off of the design and construction of official residences for the Heads of Courts in the FCT. He said the initiative marks the beginning of a new era for judicial officers in the nation’s capital. “Before the first tenure of Mr President ends, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented quarter,” Wike said. “I didn’t say Federal High Court or National Industrial Court — I mean judges of the FCT High Court.” The minister explained that the project is part of the administration’s broader effort to improve judicial welfare and infrastructure, following the recent construction of magistrate courts in Jabi and 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District. He stressed that the move should not be mistaken for executive interference, noting that the Federal Capital Development Authority is responsible for constructing public buildings in the FCT. Wike also revealed that the heads of courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judges of the Federal and FCT High Courts, and the Judge of the National Industrial Court, will retain ownership of their residences after retirement. “What we are doing today is not temporary accommodation. When they retire, the houses will become theirs. That’s the directive of Mr President, and that’s why the seal of oaths was issued in their names,” Wike said. “So, no one should expect any controversy about ownership after they retire — these homes are part of their entitlements.” Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, commended the initiative, describing it as a major step toward strengthening judicial independence and institutional integrity. He said, “Providing secure and befitting accommodation for heads of court will enhance their independence, dignity, and security, enabling them to discharge their duties with greater focus and authority.” Fagbemi further noted that the initiative would help reduce corruption within the judiciary, adding, “Even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what would they be doing with the money when their accommodation is already taken care of?” He praised President Tinubu and Wike for prioritizing judicial welfare, saying their actions reflect a genuine commitment to institutional strengthening and infrastructural development.  

Read More

Wike Calls Himself “Golden Minister,” Says God Specially Favoured Him

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described himself as a “golden minister,” saying he feels specially favored by God. Speaking on Thursday during the flag-off of the construction of Collector Road CN2 (Emmanuel I. Ogala Street) from Arterial N16 (Yemi Osinbajo Way) to N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) in Katampe District, Wike reflected on his political journey and milestones. He noted that he was serving as governor when Rivers State celebrated its 50th anniversary and now holds the position of minister as the Federal Capital Territory prepares to mark its own 50th anniversary next February. Wike said, “Some of us have been very lucky. We were governors when our state turned 50, and now we are ministers as the FCT turns 50. Are we not so loved by God?” He added that his experience is a sign of divine favor, urging others not to be envious. “Well, you may sit on my seat, but that does not mean you’re loved specially like we are loved by God,” he said. He also encouraged stakeholders to work hard to ensure the FCT’s golden jubilee celebration is a memorable one.  

Read More

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Declares Abuja One of Nigeria’s Safest Cities on 65th Independence Day

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has affirmed that Abuja remains one of the safest cities in the country, attributing this to both government initiatives and residents’ commitment to peace. In his Independence Day message to FCT residents, Wike said the territory has stood out as a model of unity and security, even as other parts of the country face challenges. “Residents have remained intentional about living together in peace and harmony despite a few distractions. Consequently, the FCT has become one of the most peaceful places to reside in the entire country,” he stated. Wike credited Abuja’s relative calm to a joint effort: the security measures implemented by the FCT Administration in partnership with law enforcement agencies, and the residents’ “zero tolerance for insecurity.” He praised citizens for their vigilance and cooperation, urging them to continue reporting suspicious activities and supporting the administration’s efforts to maintain law and order. The minister also highlighted the role of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has brought “unprecedented development and security measures” to the capital. “We have reconstructed schools and hospitals, built strategic roads, empowered youths and women, and supported our farmers. These interventions are strengthening the economy of the FCT and improving living standards,” Wike said. Looking ahead to the February 2026 area council elections, Wike called on residents to uphold Abuja’s reputation for peace by focusing on issues-based campaigns and voting responsibly. “I implore residents to campaign for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and orderly manner. I also encourage everyone to come out in large numbers to vote for leaders with vision and the capacity to drive development,” he appealed. “As we mark 65 years of nationhood, let us look forward with renewed hope. The FCT will continue to symbolize our unity, resilience, and now, one of the safest places to call home in Nigeria,” he concluded.  

Read More

Breaking: Tinubu Lifts Emergency Rule in Rivers, Reinstates Gov Fubara

By Bunmi Ogunyale Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lifted the State of Emergency rule on Rivers State. The President made this declaration in a statement made available in Abuja on Wednesday. His words; “My Fellow countrymen and, in particular, the good people of Rivers State. “I am happy to address you today on the state of emergency declaration in Rivers State. You will recall that on 18th March, 2025, I proclaimed a state of emergency in the state. In my proclamation address, I highlighted the reasons for the declaration. “The summary of it for context is that there was a total paralysis of governance in Rivers State, which had led to the Governor of Rivers State and the House of Assembly being unable to work together. Critical economic assets of the State, including oil pipelines, were being vandalised. “The State House of Assembly was crisis-ridden, such that members of the House were divided into two groups. Four members worked with the Governor, while 27 members opposed the Governor. The latter group supported the Speaker. As a result, the Governor could not present any Appropriation Bill to the House, to enable him to access funds to run Rivers State’s affairs. That serious constitutional impasse brought governance in the State to a standstill. Even the Supreme Court, in one of its judgments in a series of cases filed by the Executive and the Legislative arms of Rivers State against each other, held that there was no government in Rivers State. “My intervention and that of other well-meaning Nigerians to resolve the conflict proved abortive as both sides stuck rigidly to their positions to the detriment of peace and development of the State. “It therefore became painfully inevitable that to arrest the drift towards anarchy in Rivers State, I was obligated to invoke the powers conferred on me by Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to proclaim the state of emergency. The Offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months in the first instance. The six months expire today, September 17th, 2025. “I thank the National Assembly, which, after critically evaluating the justification for the proclamation, took steps immediately, as required by the Constitution, to approve the declaration in the interest of peace and order in Rivers State. I also thank our traditional rulers and the good people of Rivers State for their support from the date of the declaration of the state of emergency until now. “I am not unaware that there were a few voices of dissent against the proclamation, which led to their instituting over 40 cases in the courts in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Yenagoa, to invalidate the declaration. That is the way it should be in a democratic setting. “Some cases are still pending in the courts as of today. But what needs to be said is that the power to declare a state of emergency is an inbuilt constitutional tool to address situations of actual or threatened breakdown of public order and public safety, which require extraordinary measures to return the State to peace, order and security. “Considered objectively, we had reached that situation of total breakdown of public order and public safety in Rivers State, as shown in the judgment of the Supreme Court on the disputes between the Executive and the Legislative arm of Rivers State. It would have been a colossal failure on my part as President not to have made that proclamation. “As a stakeholder in democratic governance, I believe that the need for a harmonious existence and relationship between the executive and the legislature is key to a successful government, whether at the state or national level. The people who voted us into power expect to reap the fruits of democracy. However, that expectation will remain unrealizable in an atmosphere of violence, anarchy, and insecurity borne by misguided political activism and Machiavellian manipulations among the stakeholders. “I am happy today that, from the intelligence available to me, there is a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding, a robust readiness, and potent enthusiasm on the part of all the stakeholders in Rivers State for an immediate return to democratic governance. This is undoubtedly a welcome development for me and a remarkable achievement for us. I therefore do not see why the state of emergency should exist a day longer than the six months I had pronounced at the beginning of it. “It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the deputy governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from 18 September 2025. “I take this opportunity to remind the Governors and the Houses of Assembly of all the States of our country to continue to appreciate that it is only in an atmosphere of peace, order, and good government that we can deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. I implore all of you to let this realisation drive your actions at all times. “I thank you all.” Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Read More

Wike Mocks Peter Obi for Serving Food at Party, Backs Edo Governor’s Warning

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, over a recent video showing him serving food at an event. Speaking on Tuesday during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Wike described Obi’s action as a “show of shame” aimed at deceiving Nigerians into believing he is humble. “This is not where a presidential candidate will begin to serve food. No! No!! How long will he be serving the food? As a president, you will be carrying food and serving? And then Nigerians are laughing. Who told you that is humility?” Wike said. The former Rivers State governor also backed Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo over his recent warning to Obi to seek security clearance before visiting Edo. Wike argued that Okpebholo’s stance was necessary for public safety and should not be misinterpreted as hostility. Wike further criticised Nigerians for supporting what he called “political theatrics,” urging them to demand sincerity from leaders rather than “wayo” (deception).

Read More

Wike Blasts ADC-Led Coalition Labels Members Desperate Power Seekers and Defectors

Abuja — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has launched a fierce attack on members of the newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissing the group as lacking credibility, cohesion, and the capacity to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Speaking during a media chat with journalists on Thursday, Wike described the coalition as a “desperate alliance of failed political actors” who, according to him, are merely regrouping after being edged out of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “There is no coalition,” Wike said bluntly. “The opposition has decimated themselves. The only party that can, if they put themselves well, challenge this government is the PDP.” Wike specifically took aim at former Senate President David Mark, now interim chairman of the ADC coalition, accusing him of previously attempting to hijack PDP’s leadership. “David Mark wanted to be chairman of the PDP, and we resisted it,” Wike said. “Now he has gone to chair the coalition. Let’s see who Nigerians will listen to.” Also in his line of fire was Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation magazine and a former presidential aspirant, whom Wike described as “politically irrelevant.” “Dele Momodu ran for president and didn’t get one vote. That one is in the coalition too,” Wike mocked. The minister, known for his hard-hitting political commentary, accused many in the coalition — including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar — of serial defections driven by personal ambition. “Atiku left PDP for AC, came back, joined APC, returned to PDP, and now he’s in ADC again. They just want to control wherever they go,” Wike alleged. He also questioned the sincerity of coalition members who frequently invoke national discontent as a rallying point. “They keep saying Nigerians are angry. Just say you’ve been defeated and stop projecting your failure onto Nigerians.” Wike challenged any member of the coalition to match his record in public office, particularly in his current role as FCT minister. “If I leave office today, I can list my achievements. Let any of them do the same.” He also hinted that former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s involvement in the coalition may be due to political frustration. “If the President hadn’t dumped El-Rufai, would he be in a coalition today?” With the 2027 general elections looming, Wike stressed that despite internal wranglings, the PDP remains the only viable opposition party — if it maintains its unity and structure. “Politics is about interest. They did everything to hijack the PDP chairmanship and we resisted. If the PDP stays united, it alone can challenge the APC,” he concluded.

Read More

If the President Wants Peace I Also Want Peace — Wike

The President has consistently expressed a desire for peace, and I cannot in good conscience say I don’t want the same. He recently visited with two governors and an elder statesman, all from the APC, and reiterated his commitment to resolving the crisis. I won’t oppose him—peace is something we all should work toward. I advised him, as a younger man, on the best course of action to avoid problems. But instead, some people around him told him not to listen, to assert himself as Governor. Now, the consequences have begun to unfold. People pushed him until a State of Emergency was declared. But who bears the brunt of that decision? He does. Who will suffer the consequences? Still him. And even if the State of Emergency is eventually lifted, has the underlying issue been resolved? No. The Assembly will remain as it is, the crisis will persist. Without their support, he won’t have a passed budget and won’t receive federal allocation. That’s the reality. If he genuinely wants peace, he should speak with the right people—like members of the Assembly and key leaders. True peace is reflected not just in words but in actions and conduct. Healing takes time. You can’t hurt people and expect immediate forgiveness or trust. If I didn’t want to support peace, I wouldn’t have welcomed him. I saw him speak, and as a human being, I felt something. He said yesterday that his spirit had left the matter—but how am I to know that? I don’t rely on public sympathy; I focus on the facts. After all, we’ve seen preachers claim they’re led by the spirit, only to find out later there was no spirit at all.

Read More
Bayelsa Government Condemns Shooting at Political Rally Linked to Wike Loyalists

Bayelsa Government Condemns Shooting at Political Rally Linked to Wike Loyalists

The Bayelsa State Government has expressed strong dismay over the shooting incident that occurred during a political rally organized on Saturday by the NEW Associates, a group allegedly loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike. In a statement issued Saturday night by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Obiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the government called on the Inspector-General of Police and the state police authorities to immediately investigate and uncover those responsible for the violence. The government noted that the shooting appeared premeditated, especially as the rally’s organizers had previously warned that “the good, the bad, and the ugly” would attend the event. It questioned why a gathering expected to be peaceful turned violent, leaving several individuals reportedly injured. The statement urged law enforcement agencies to launch a thorough investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice. Highlighting that the rally violated electoral guidelines set by the Electoral Act and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the government also pointed out that the event was held at the camp ground of a religious organization. It warned political groups against dragging religious institutions into partisan politics and desecrating sacred places of worship, stressing that any religious organization found breaching the law would face sanctions. The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and protecting the lives and property of all residents in Bayelsa State.

Read More