Wike Shuts Down Media Chat Ban Rumors, Pledges to Keep FCT Residents in the Loop

Table of Contents

• Minister Debunks Claims of Media Chat Ban
• Monthly Media Parley
• Allegation of Fabrication
• Updates on FCT Administration
• Focus on Education Sector
• Addressing Key Issues
• Security Reassurance
• Comments on National Politics
• Reaction to IPOB Leader's Mention
• Dismissal of Propaganda

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has refuted assertions that the presidency has prohibited him from conducting media chats, labeling the reports as “false, baseless, and politically motivated.”

Wike made this clarification during his monthly media session in Abuja, which followed a 20-day series of project launches and commissioning ceremonies throughout the territory.

In a statement released by Rabi Musa Umar, Assistant Director of Press in the Minister's Office, the FCT Minister indicated that the claim was a fabrication by individuals with hidden agendas.

“Someone claimed that the President has barred me from holding a media chat. This is the same nonsensical talk they propagate. Who is behind this? It’s the same person who has been taking money from people, and yet Nigerians are listening to him. How could the President ban me from informing the public about what the government is doing in the FCT?” Wike stated.

He stressed that he was not representing the Federal Government but rather providing updates on the policies and initiatives of the FCT Administration.

“I’m not speaking on behalf of the Federal Government. I’m informing the world about our activities in the FCT under Tinubu’s administration,” he added.

Wike reaffirmed his dedication to keeping residents updated about ongoing and upcoming projects, revealing that the next phase of project launches would concentrate on the education sector.

The Minister also addressed various issues impacting the capital city, including open grazing, transportation, land administration, and security.

Concerning open grazing, Wike mentioned that the issue is being treated as a national security concern, noting that the FCTA is in discussions with the Ministry of Livestock and the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association to establish ranches as a solution.

Regarding transportation, the Minister disclosed that the FCT Executive Council had approved contracts for managing the Mabushi and Kugbo bus terminals to alleviate public commuting challenges.

He also defended the FCTA’s decision to revoke undeveloped plots within River Parks Estate, asserting that this action was in accordance with due process.

“The government is not interested in seizing people’s land. However, beneficiaries of land allocations must develop their plots within the designated timeframe or face revocation,” he explained.

On security, Wike assured residents that the FCT remains safe, emphasizing that isolated incidents should not be interpreted as a reflection of the overall security landscape.

Commenting on national politics, the Minister remarked that the defection of several PDP governors to the APC signifies an internal crisis within the opposition party. He urged the PDP leadership to resolve internal conflicts, particularly regarding the position of the National Secretary.

Wike reiterated his loyalty to the PDP but ruled out participation in what he referred to as an “illegal convention,” emphasizing that he has no intention of joining the APC.

The Minister also responded to reports that IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, mentioned him as a witness in his ongoing trial. Wike stated he was unaware of the reasons but would attend court if officially summoned.

Furthermore, he dismissed claims that he influenced the appointment of the new INEC Chairman, describing such reports as “utter nonsense.”

He urged Nigerians to ignore politically motivated propaganda and assured that the FCT Administration would remain focused on delivering developmental projects and maintaining transparency.