Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has told Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed to focus on his own challenges instead of dragging him into the state’s political issues.
Wike made the statement during a “thank you” visit to Abua-Odual Local Government Area in Rivers State on Thursday, responding to Mohammed’s allegations that he was behind the unrest in Bauchi State.
Earlier, Mohammed accused Wike of fomenting instability in Bauchi, claiming the minister had once threatened to “set the state on fire.” He further alleged that Wike was using federal agencies and political machinery to undermine his administration, while criticizing his leadership style and spending as FCT minister. Mohammed also suggested that Wike had become a focal point for internal PDP conflicts.
Reacting, Wike dismissed the accusations and urged the governor to stop blaming others and deal with his problems directly.
“If you don’t have the power, why are you fighting? If you have the power to put out the fire, then go ahead and do it,” Wike said.
He recalled that Mohammed had previously visited Rivers State intending to impose a party leader, a move Wike warned against.
“You came to my state. I told you to be careful and leave my state alone because you wanted to impose a party leader. I warned you about the consequences. Today, you don’t even have a party to produce your successor. That’s exactly what I predicted,” Wike stated.
The minister advised Mohammed to step aside if he lacked the capacity to handle his political challenges. He emphasized that his involvement with Mohammed was only at the level of party leadership and that he had no interest in Bauchi State affairs.
Wike also challenged the governor to address allegations involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, which is reportedly investigating Mohammed’s associates over alleged terrorism financing.
“What’s my business? If your state is clean, go and clear yourself. Don’t come and spin stories for Nigerians. Leave me alone and handle your problems,” Wike said.
Responding to criticism over land sales in Abuja, Wike noted that Mohammed had previously served as FCT minister from 2010 to 2015, questioning his record during that period.
“You sold land everywhere. The contracts you awarded weren’t completed. Now I am the one completing those projects,” Wike said.
He added that his performance as FCT minister had received public acclaim and vowed to continue delivering results.
“Nigerians are praising our work every day. That shows I have done well, and I will keep doing well,” he concluded.
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