Chidinma Iroegbu
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged residents of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) to reject politicians who appear only during election seasons, stressing that leadership must be grounded in sincerity, accountability and consistent engagement with the people ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike gave the advice during a thank-you visit to AMAC residents in Abuja, where he emphasised the need for a transparent relationship between elected officials and citizens in order to strengthen democratic governance.
The minister recalled that he previously held a town hall meeting with residents at the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the engagement was aimed at identifying priority projects for communities within the area councils.
According to him, residents nominated several projects to be delivered within six months, including the construction of Saburi Road, which he confirmed had already been completed and commissioned.
“At that meeting, I asked you what you wanted the government of President Tinubu to do for you. One of the projects nominated by this area was Saburi Road, and to the glory of God, that road has been commissioned,” he said.
Wike explained that governance should reflect what he described as a “symbiotic relationship” between leaders and the electorate, insisting that public office holders must honour commitments made to the people.
“Relationship must not be one-sided. If you do for me, I will do for you. When you have fulfilled your part, I must not give excuses; I must fulfil mine,” he stated.
The minister cautioned residents against politicians who resurface in communities shortly before elections after long periods of absence, urging voters to scrutinise such individuals.
“Never again should politicians come and tell us stories, and after voting, you won’t see them again. We must stop fake politics. We must know those who are sincere and those who are not,” he said.
He also criticised individuals he described as “emergency contractors,” alleging that some political aspirants suddenly initiate projects or visit communities only when seeking electoral support.
“Some people never showed up in certain communities while in office. Now that they want support, they suddenly remember the roads. That is not sincerity; that is vanity,” Wike added.
The minister further said President Tinubu expects the FCT administration to remain closely connected with residents, stressing that governance requires direct engagement with communities such as Ketti, Kabusa, Wasa, Chari and Saburi.
In his remarks, AMAC Chairman Christopher Maikalangu thanked Wike for supporting the council before and during the recent election, noting that the minister remained in contact with him on the eve of the poll to ensure a peaceful exercise, while political stakeholders at the event commended ongoing projects across the territory and pledged continued support.