FCT Minister Wike Clarifies ₦10m Offer to Councilors

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has addressed criticism surrounding his offer of ₦10 million to councilors, stating that it is not a bribe to buy votes but rather a reward for those who demonstrate commitment and gather support for President Bola Tinubu. Wike made the statement during an inspection of road and other projects in Abuja on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

The minister initially made the promise during a meeting with traditional rulers, political stakeholders, and community leaders in the Kwali Area Council on Monday, November 9. He urged councilors to meet with community leaders and youth groups to garner support for Tinubu's re-election in 2027. Wike emphasized that the reward would be given to councilors who show commitment and achieve election targets.

Wike drew a comparison between his offer and the benefits promised to athletes before international competitions, arguing that such incentives encourage hard work and good performance. He questioned why similar rewards for politicians are viewed as bribery, while those for athletes are seen as motivation. The minister stressed that rewarding councilors for gathering support and achieving election targets is different from paying voters to influence their choices.

The minister also criticized some media outlets for their reporting on the matter, accusing them of not distinguishing between money given to voters to influence their choices and rewards promised to individuals who organize political support. Wike cited campaign advertisements as an example of spending that does not attract similar criticism.

According to Wike, councilors are expected to demonstrate commitment through their work and ability to persuade voters. He maintained that the reward would be given for effort and results achieved. The minister used the project inspection to explain his plan to campaign for Tinubu, highlighting the development projects undertaken by the government as a reason for re-electing the president.

During the inspection, Wike visited several projects, including Section 2 of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX 2), Southern Parkway, and S1 Road, which includes a fire station. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of the projects and confirmed that they are on track to be completed by December 15, 2026, ahead of the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, 2027.

Wike reiterated that his support for Tinubu stems from the development attributed to the government, rather than party affiliation. He urged Nigerians who want the country to move forward to support policies and programs aimed at bringing development.

Key points

• FCT Minister Nyesom Wike denies using ₦10m to buy votes, says it's a reward for councilors who gather support for President Bola Tinubu.