‘I’m Not a Native Doctor’ — Wike Speaks on Rivers APC Screening Saga

Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims linking him to the ongoing controversy surrounding the screening of aspirants by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.

Wike, who spoke on Monday while inspecting infrastructure projects in Abuja ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary celebrations, maintained that he had no role in the APC process because he is not a member of the party.

“I am not a member of the APC, so I don’t know what is happening in their screening. Even if they publish the results, why would I comment? I don’t know the reasons they have,” he told journalists.

The minister further stressed that he would not interfere in matters unrelated to him.

“What pertains to me is what I will talk about, not what does not concern me. I’m not a native doctor, neither am I a prophet,” Wike said.

Speaking on political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections in Rivers State, Wike revealed that his coalition would support candidates based on political strength and strategy.

“That is the essence of the rainbow coalition in Rivers State. We will look at where we have strength, compare notes and vote accordingly,” he stated.

Wike also used the occasion to assess several infrastructure projects nearing completion across Abuja and expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work.

According to him, contractors handling some of the projects assured the administration that outstanding installations, particularly streetlights, would be completed before the end of May.

“We are very happy. They promised that before the end of the month, they would finish the streetlights,” he said.

The minister noted that the Dutse-Alhaji-to-M5 road project was advancing well, while another road project handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation was virtually completed.

“That road is already completed, and the contractor, CCCC, has promised that within the next 10 days, they will complete the streetlights. We are very comfortable and happy,” he added.

Wike also praised the progress on a bridge project expected to improve traffic flow toward Kubwa.

“The bridge has been launched, and they have started the connection that will direct traffic from here to Kubwa. It is a wonderful thing. We are happy,” he said.

He disclosed that some of the completed projects would be commissioned during activities marking President Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

“Part of these projects fixed by Mr President will be inaugurated. Quality jobs done by very good contractors. We are happy. The excellence is there,” Wike remarked.

On complaints concerning alleged harassment by Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) officials during tax enforcement exercises, the minister said while tax collection should be carried out civilly, many residents often avoid paying taxes.

“There must be a civilised way of collecting taxes, but knowing our taxpayers, people don’t like to pay tax. When tax collectors come, they find one excuse or the other,” he said.

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