A former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Kebbi state, Mallam Salihu Isa Nataro, has urged APC governors to cease their attacks on the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Nataro's advice comes amid campaigns for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election. As a public sector reform advocate, Nataro has been pushing for reduced governance costs and prioritization of socio-economically relevant projects.
Nataro emphasized the need for crucial public service reforms, citing the unproductive nature of civil servants. He stressed that state governors should focus on priority projects that alleviate the masses' plight, rather than serving personal interests. Additionally, Nataro, an auditor by profession, highlighted the differences between FCT and state government projects, particularly in terms of infrastructure demand and maintenance culture.
The APC chieftain urged collective support for the FCT Minister, noting that it is in the best interest of the Tinubu administration and APC for Wike to continue his good works in the FCT. Nataro described criticizing Wike as aiding the opposition's work. He also mentioned that Wike's execution of public projects follows due process, making talk of probing him if the opposition wins the presidential election "irresponsible."
Nataro condemned the media trial of public officers on false corruption charges, which he considers unacceptable. He advised APC governors to ensure Wike enjoys the same privileges as others. The former governorship candidate regretted the absence of independent auditors in all activities, which has led to suspicion. However, he affirmed that Wike has been discharging his duties responsibly and constitutionally.
Despite losing his plot of land in Maitama, Nataro stated that he will not support APC governors in their attacks on Wike. He attributed alleged corruption cases to the absence of auditing techniques in the civil service structure. Nataro expressed his willingness to mobilize support for Wike if he contests for the presidency in the future, citing his achievements in the FCT.
Nataro urged the FCT Minister to explore ways to make the FCT administration less dependent on Federal Allocation by leveraging abundant investment opportunities. He also suggested that the Minister look into the issue of duplication of functions, which could lead to a drastic reduction of staff to 60%. This, Nataro believes, will help optimize the FCT's resources and efficiency.
The public sector reform advocate concluded by emphasizing the importance of supporting Wike's efforts in the FCT, which he believes will ultimately benefit the Tinubu administration and the APC. By heeding Nataro's advice, APC governors can help promote a more harmonious and effective working relationship with the FCT Minister.
Key points
- APC governors should stop fighting FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over President Tinubu's re-election campaigns.
- Nataro urges FCT Minister to explore ways to make the FCT administration less dependent on Federal Allocation.
- The absence of independent auditors in all activities has led to suspicion and alleged corruption cases.
