Labour Party Senator, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Ireti Kingibe, has criticised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, of having an “emperor mentality” and being insensitive to the plight of Abuja residents.
Senator Kingibe who was a guest on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm programme, said this on Tuesday
Kingibe expressed her disappointment with Wike’s performance, citing issues such as unpaid salaries, poor infrastructure, and insecurity, while accusing Wike of owing salaries and not involving her in the budgeting process for the FCT.
According to her, “In the last few months, I gave it some thought and said at the end of the day, all I want is my people to benefit. If being less antagonistic to the minister would help bring development to the people, then fine.
“So, I decided that in spite of the things that I don’t like that he is doing, I will minimise my public criticisms of him, but it’s not made any difference because he has an emperor mentality,” Kingibe said.
She also criticised Wike for failing to address insecurity in the city, which has led to common occurrences of one-chance robbery and kidnapping.
Additionally, Kingibe pointed out that the lack of streetlights on Abuja roads has contributed to the insecurity.
Kingibe compared Wike’s performance unfavourably to that of his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, saying that El-Rufai’s achievements in infrastructure development surpassed Wike’s efforts.
Kingibe emphasised the need for more funding in crucial areas such as healthcare, education, and agriculture, which she believes Wike has neglected.
Kingibe and Wike have had a strained relationship since they assumed office in 2023.
The senator had previously attempted to reach out to Wike in the spirit of peace and synergy, but Wike cut her off, prompting Kingibe to report him to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
