The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged Nigerians to appreciate President Bola Tinubu’s tolerance of criticisms, describing him as a leader who allows freedom of expression even when comments are harsh.
Wike made the remarks in Abuja on Thursday during the flag-off of the Arterial Road N1 project in Wuye. He argued that in other countries, citizens would not go unpunished for calling their president a “criminal” as done recently by activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.
“This is a country where somebody on social media will say Mr President is a criminal; nothing will happen,” Wike said. “No matter how you see people criticise Trump, have you ever seen any American citizen on social media, or in public, say ‘Our President is a criminal’? But here, anybody can wake up in the morning and abuse the President, and we are happy. You are lucky you have a President who believes in the rule of law. Continue to be lucky.”
The minister also dismissed rumours circulating online that he had suffered a heart attack and was flown abroad for treatment.
“I hear they have (a) heart attack. God will continue to help them to have (a) heart attack. It is my prayer that I will sign their condolences,” Wike quipped, insisting he was in good health and actively performing his duties.
Earlier, his media aide, Lere Olayinka, mocked Sowore over the rumour, posting a video of Wike at the project inspection and writing: “FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, flagging off the construction of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, Abuja, today. We didn’t see Online Medical Doctor Omoyele Sowore of Sahara Desert Medical Centre.”
Wike further addressed the indefinite strike by resident doctors in the FCT, noting that the administration had earmarked ₦25 billion for health projects in the 2025 budget approved in July.
He stressed that while issues of allowances and recruitment were being addressed, due process must be followed.
“Those who say they are being owed allowances, fine. We just appointed an acting Head of Service after the former one passed on. I asked them to check how much is involved. On the employment of doctors, the Civil Service Commission said they had a waiver. Fine, go ahead and employ them. I’m not a doctor,” he said.
The minister also cautioned against politicising the FCT Civil Service, warning officials to separate governance from party politics.
“If you want to join a political party, go ahead and join. But don’t use the Civil Service to play politics,” he warned.
Wike assured that once the treasury provides verified figures, outstanding allowances will be paid, but insisted that everything must follow proper procedure.
