The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called for a fair assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s performance, arguing that political rivalry should not prevent the recognition of achievements.
Wike made the call while responding to questions from journalists in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, amid political activities ahead of the 2027 general election.
He maintained that political differences should not stop Nigerians and opposition politicians from acknowledging developments they consider beneficial to the country.
“Whether anybody likes it or not, Mr President has done well,” Wike said.
The minister argued that portraying the administration as having achieved nothing could undermine objective assessment, urging political actors to distinguish between constructive criticism and partisan attacks.
“Politics must not be played as a do-or-die affair,” he stated.
Wike cited remarks attributed to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed as an example of an opposition figure acknowledging aspects of Tinubu’s performance.
He said support for the president could come from outside the All Progressives Congress (APC) without necessarily erasing political differences or party loyalties.
According to Wike, the national interest should encourage political leaders to acknowledge progress where they believe it exists, even when doing so may conflict with their parties’ electoral interests.
The minister also defended the Rainbow Coalition, which brings together APC members and supporters of Tinubu from other political parties, describing it as a platform for mobilising support for the president’s re-election.
He said the coalition was not intended to eliminate political competition but to unite supporters around a common electoral objective.
Wike added that the initiative recognised the different political interests and circumstances across states, allowing people outside the ruling party to participate in the president’s re-election campaign.
He cited his role in coordinating support for Tinubu in the FCT and Rivers State as part of the coalition’s activities.
The minister also called for greater scrutiny of politicians seeking public office, saying they should be prepared to account for their past decisions and management of public resources.
He maintained that such scrutiny would help voters make informed choices and keep political competition focused on accountability.
Wike’s comments come as political actors position themselves ahead of the 2027 general election. His assessment of Tinubu’s performance reflects his political position, while opposition parties and other stakeholders continue to express differing views on the administration’s policies and record.
