Nigeria's Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has promised to give ₦10 million to every councillor who delivers his political ward for President Bola Tinubu and other All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in the 2027 general elections. This announcement was made during a stakeholders' meeting of the Rainbow Coalition in Kwali Area Council, Abuja. Wike urged councillors to mobilise residents and community groups ahead of the elections.
Wike reaffirmed his support for Tinubu's re-election and endorsed former FCT senator Philip Aduda for the Senate seat and Danladi Chiya for the Abuja South Federal Constituency. He expressed confidence in the APC's chances, stating that he will go to sleep tonight because he knows Kwali, Gwagwalada, and Abaji are 100 per cent for APC. Wike criticised opposition politicians over their reactions to court judgments.
The minister defended the Rainbow Coalition, which brings together politicians from different parties to support Tinubu's re-election, despite his membership of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wike highlighted road construction and other infrastructure projects across the FCT, claiming that more than 270 kilometres of roads were being built in satellite towns, including 95 kilometres in Kwali.
Gambo Hamza, chairman of the National Councillors Forum of Nigeria in the FCT, told Wike that councillors receive ₦260,000 monthly and appealed for an increase. Wike promised to look into their salaries. The minister did not state where the proposed ₦10 million rewards would come from or explain how the delivery of each ward would be determined.
The Rainbow Coalition aims to support Tinubu's re-election by mobilising support from various stakeholders. Wike's promise of ₦10 million to councillors who deliver their wards is seen as an effort to secure votes for the APC. The 2027 general elections are expected to be highly competitive, with various parties vying for power.
Wike's endorsement of Aduda and Chiya for key positions is expected to boost their chances in the upcoming elections. The APC is set to unveil Tinubu's 2027-2031 presidential election manifesto, outlining his plans for the country. The party is confident of winning the elections, with Wike expressing optimism about their chances.
The opposition has reacted to Wike's promise, accusing him of using government funds to influence the elections. However, Wike has defended his actions, stating that he is working to ensure the APC's victory in the 2027 elections. The outcome of the elections will depend on various factors, including the performance of the current administration and the popularity of the candidates.
Key points
- Wike promises ₦10m to FCT councillors who deliver their wards for Tinubu and APC in 2027.
- The minister defends the Rainbow Coalition, a multi-party alliance supporting Tinubu's re-election.
- Wike highlights infrastructure projects in the FCT, including road construction in satellite towns.
