The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will not be swayed by blackmail or public criticism, stressing that his only concern was pleasing God and to deliver on his mandate as directed by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking during a flag-off of the construction of Access Roads ILS 02 and ILS 03 (Timipre Sylva Street) in Mabushi District, Abuja, on Monday, Wike lashed out at critics whom he accused of attempting to blackmail him into taking actions against his principles.
“So if you like, go and organise yourself, something I know is not correct, if you like, cry from morning till night, call me whatever name you want to call me, put my name on the internet, say anything you want to say—foul,” he said.
Wike maintained that blackmail is a common tool used against politicians but insisted that such tactics would not deter him.
“I am not one of those you will think that blackmail will change me. My skin is so thick, so strong. As a politician, you should know that these are things you will see, so why are you worried? No politician who is a serial politician will think that people will not say something against them. Then go and sleep, go and rest,” the minister declared.
He added that the only situation that could worry him would be if his principal, President Tinubu, expressed dissatisfaction with his performance.
“The day I set out to be a politician, I knew I was now up. People will say all kinds of things, so for me, say it. The only way I will be worried is if my appointor is not satisfied with what I am doing, then I will be worried. But just because we are not doing what you want, and then you think by blackmail it will make us do it—we will not do it. So, civil servants who are here, if you know those your people you are organising, call them back, tell them that it’s like the thing won’t work, because I know it will not work,” Wike said.
The FCT minister also criticised contractors and groups he accused of attempting to dictate government priorities.
“I mean, look at the country where you are a minister and people are signing contracts to the tune of ₦19–20 billion, and now somebody comes to say, ‘Oh, you are owing us.’ I determine what is the priority. I, representing Mr. President, determine what is the priority. You cannot determine for us what is the priority,” he stated.
According to Wike, infrastructure and social amenities remain at the heart of his agenda for FCT residents.
“I know what the people need, and that is why we are here to flag off road projects. It is not every day you pay contractors. That is just the nature of our people. Our people need hospitals, schools, and good roads,” he explained.
Concluding his remarks, the minister emphasised that he was not seeking popularity.
“I have never said I want to be one of those that are liked. No, I don’t want anybody to like me. All I want is God,” he declared.
