The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has firmly stated that the FCT Administration (FCTA) will not yield to blackmail or misinformation regarding the payment of salaries owed to area council workers.
Speaking during a strategic meeting with Area Council Chairmen, officials of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and representatives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Wike clarified that salary payment for area council staff is not the statutory responsibility of the FCTA.
While acknowledging that the administration has provided financial interventions in good faith in the past, Wike expressed concern over what he described as “deliberate attempts” to misrepresent the facts. He noted that despite FCTA’s consistent support, some local councils have failed to fulfill their obligations, only to turn around and blame the central administration for their shortcomings.
“The FCT Administration remains a responsible government that intervenes when necessary, but we will not operate under pressure or false accusations,” Wike said.
The Minister also warned against the politicization of public service, accusing certain individuals of personalizing government processes and spreading misinformation. He urged stakeholders to engage in honest dialogue and focus on realistic, sustainable solutions rather than resorting to public theatrics.
Wike reiterated the FCTA’s commitment to transparency, good governance, and the well-being of residents, while calling for greater accountability and performance from local council leadership.
