By Sodiq Adelakun
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong political warning to traditional rulers and stakeholders in Abuja, urging them not to repeat what he described as their “mistake” during the 2023 elections, while openly endorsing Senator Philip Aduda for a return to the National Assembly.
Wike made the remarks during a stakeholder engagement with the Abuja FCT Stakeholders Assembly, where he was honoured with the traditional title of “Hasken Abuja” (The Light of Abuja) by the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs, Dr. Adamu Yunusa.
While appreciating the recognition, the minister quickly shifted focus to political strategy, insisting that Abuja needed experienced representation in the Senate to attract development and federal attention.
“You made a mistake last time, you elected a Senator you can’t see. A Senator who cannot go to traditional rulers to talk. A Senator who cannot even organize the indigenous community to talk or to ask them what are their needs,” Wike said.
He argued that Senator Aduda’s return would restore influence and access at the National Assembly, describing him as a seasoned legislator with over a decade of experience.
“Aduda has been in the Senate. Aduda was Senate Minority Leader. Now if Aduda goes back to Senate, he carries an experience and he’s ranking. So when he’s talking, his colleagues will listen to him,” he said.
Wike dismissed emerging challengers, warning that inexperience could weaken Abuja’s political standing. “You cannot take somebody who has had experience in National Assembly for over 14 years as somebody who has not completed second term of chairman… If you play politics on that kind of thing, it will consume you,” he cautioned.
The minister also tied his appeal to what he described as renewed federal development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Abuja communities must align politically to benefit from ongoing projects such as water infrastructure expansion across Karu, Orozo, and Bwari.
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In response, traditional leaders praised Wike’s leadership and infrastructure drive, particularly his approval for the upgrade of traditional institutions and plans for a new Ona Palace in Abaji. Dr. Yunusa said the honour of “Hasken Abuja” was a recognition of his “visionary leadership and commitment to development.”
The stakeholders also tabled requests for agricultural support, land documentation, and improved representation at the federal level, while urging the creation of additional senatorial districts and area councils given Abuja’s growing population.
Wike, in turn, assured them of government intervention on key demands, including the provision of tractors to chiefdoms and improved support for local agriculture, while reaffirming his commitment to defending FCT interests.
“That I was not born here doesn’t mean that I’m not from here. I’m now from here… I must do everything to protect your interest,” he declared.
