I’m not a native doctor’, Wike distances self from Rivers APC screening
Wike Addresses APC Screening Controversy, Focuses on Infrastructure Projects
By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA — Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, distanced himself from the ongoing screening of aspirants by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, asserting that he is not a member of the party and therefore does not have insight into the matter.
“I am not a member of the APC, so I don’t know what is happening in their screening,” Wike told reporters on Monday during an inspection of infrastructure projects in Abuja. He added, “Even if they publish the results, why would I comment? I don’t know the reasons they have.”
Wike emphasized the boundaries of his comments, stating, “What pertains to me is what I will talk about, not what does not concern me. I’m not a native doctor, neither am I a prophet.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Wike discussed forming a rainbow coalition in Rivers State that prioritizes electoral pragmatism over rigid party affiliations. “That is the essence of the rainbow coalition in Rivers State. We will look at where we have strength, compare notes, and vote accordingly,” he said.
During his tour, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of several road and bridge projects nearing completion in Abuja. Contractors have committed to finishing outstanding works, including streetlights, by the end of May.
“We are very happy. They promised that before the end of the month, they would finish the streetlights,” Wike stated.
He highlighted the steady progress of the Dutse-Alhaji-to-M5 road, noting that the project executed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation is nearly complete, pending the installation of streetlights. “That road is already completed, and the contractor, CCCC, has promised that within the next 10 days, they will complete the streetlights. We are very comfortable and happy,” Wike said.
Wike also praised a major bridge project in the capital, indicating that it has been launched and that connecting roads are underway. “The bridge has been launched, and they have started the connection that will direct traffic from here to Kubwa. It is a wonderful thing. We are happy,” he remarked.
He announced that several of the projects would be inaugurated as part of the events marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary. “Part of these projects fixed by Mr. President will be inaugurated. Quality jobs done by very good contractors. We are happy. The excellence is there,” he added.
In response to concerns regarding alleged harassment by officials from the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) during tax enforcement operations, Wike acknowledged that tax collection remains a contentious issue. However, he noted that no formal complaints had been submitted to the FCT Administration. “There must be a civilised way of collecting taxes, but knowing our taxpayers, people don’t like to pay tax. When tax collectors come, they find one excuse or the other,” he explained.
