Senate President Godswill Akpabio has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a man committed to peace and progress in the country.
This praise comes amid growing criticisms directed at Wike over the recent demolition of structures in Abuja, an action that has sparked controversy in the capital city. Despite the backlash, Akpabio, speaking at a public lecture and book launch on Friday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to mark Wike’s birthday, expressed his confusion over why anyone would have issues with the former governor, especially considering his contributions to the country.
Akpabio, in his address, stated that he had recently discussed the matter with one of his colleagues and expressed his surprise, saying, “I do not know why a man would quarrel with Wike. If he shouts while we are sitting there, by the time I get to that door, he has forgotten.”
He further added, “He will be the one to carry his phone and call me and say ‘when are you coming to the house for lunch?’ And he had forgotten that we quarreled and I will tell him, ‘after the quarrel.’” This remark illustrated Akpabio’s perspective on Wike’s forgiving nature and ability to move on quickly from conflicts.
In response to the criticisms surrounding him, Wike expressed his unbothered stance. He made it clear that he was not concerned about the negativity because he neither sees nor hears the voices of his critics. He emphasized that he was focused on his work and his goals for the public good, stating, “I do not see them and I don’t hear them and I can’t reply to them.”
Wike also took the opportunity to acknowledge the support he has received, especially from President Bola Tinubu, which has been crucial in helping him remain resolute in the face of criticism. He said, “For me, in life, what is important is, if you know what you want to do, and you know how you want to do it, then go ahead.” He assured the gathering that his focus remained on achieving results for the betterment of Nigerians, and that no amount of criticism would deter him from staying on track.
Wike concluded by expressing his gratitude for the large crowd that identified with him, stating that he felt deeply humbled by their support. He pointed out that the attacks were orchestrated by his detractors and affirmed that the best response to them was to deliver positive outcomes that would prove to the public that President Tinubu’s administration was working in the best interests of Nigeria.
He declared, “I will never be distracted. I will still be focused to achieve the results that Nigerians will know that Mr President means well.”
