The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused opposition politicians of misrepresenting President Bola Tinubu’s performance, urging political actors to assess the administration based on its record rather than partisan interests.
Wike made the remarks during a media parley in Abuja on Tuesday, where he defended what he described as the achievements of the Tinubu administration and called for a more objective assessment of its policies and performance.
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The minister argued that political differences should not prevent opposition figures from acknowledging developments they consider beneficial to the country.
According to him, the tendency to portray the administration as having achieved nothing reflects the determination of some opposition politicians to gain power rather than provide a balanced assessment of government performance.
“Whether anybody likes it or not, Mr President has done well,” Wike said.
He stressed that political competition should not be treated as a do-or-die affair, adding that criticism of the government should be based on facts rather than attempts to discredit political opponents.
Wike cited comments attributed to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed as an example of an opposition figure acknowledging aspects of Tinubu’s performance. He argued that such recognition should not automatically be interpreted as abandoning opposition politics.
The minister maintained that the national interest required political leaders to acknowledge policies or developments they considered beneficial, regardless of party affiliation.
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On the Rainbow Coalition, which brings together members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and supporters of Tinubu from other political parties, Wike described the initiative as a platform for mobilising broader support for the president ahead of the 2027 general election.
He said the coalition was not intended to eliminate political differences but to encourage cooperation among individuals and groups united by a common electoral objective.
Wike also highlighted his role in coordinating support for Tinubu in the FCT and Rivers State, despite the competing political interests in both areas.
He argued that political influence could be measured by a leader’s ability to persuade supporters to embrace a particular political direction, adding that the coalition remained open to individuals willing to support the president’s re-election bid, regardless of their party affiliation.
The minister’s comments come amid political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, as political parties and influential figures seek to consolidate support and strengthen their positions.
However, Wike’s assessment of Tinubu’s performance reflects his political position, while opposition parties and other stakeholders have continued to express differing views on the administration’s policies and economic outcomes.
He urged Nigerians to evaluate the government based on its record and called for greater scrutiny of politicians seeking public office.
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According to Wike, candidates should be prepared to account for their previous decisions and stewardship of public resources to enable voters to make informed choices.
He maintained that accountability should remain central to political competition and democratic governance.