Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ruled out any possibility of reconciling with Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, intensifying the ongoing political conflict between the two leaders.

Speaking during a media chat broadcast live on television in Abuja, yesterday, he criticised Fubara for failing to adhere to directives issued by President Bola Tinubu during a peace meeting aimed at resolving their differences.

At the press briefing, Wike said: “I’m wondering what conflict to resolve? Mr President, in his wisdom, called all parties. He said withdraw the impeachment notice, you go and do this, you go and do that, but they never returned to him.

“The Assembly withdrew the impeachment notice; you did one and two, and then you sent people to go to court. Elder, have you gone back to Mr. President to tell him we can’t do three and four? Nothing.

“I have never seen this in my life — for a president to call parties, and one party goes back and says it’s political. Who does that?”

His statement underscored the deepening rift that has emerged since Fubara took office, with Wike accusing him of not fulfilling his obligations as governor.

The feud has escalated tensions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, where 27 members have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to factionalism and a parallel assembly.

The political landscape in Rivers has been marked by power struggles as both leaders vie for control over state resources and influence.

Wike also defended his infrastructure-focused agenda amid criticism for neglecting human capital development. “Infrastructure drives the economy.”

He asserted that ongoing road projects are creating significant job opportunities, highlighting that over 200 people are employed through these initiatives in Kwali and surrounding areas, emphasizing, “These aren’t government positions; they are real opportunities.” He challenged the notion that employment is limited to government jobs, reinforcing his commitment to fostering local economic growth through infrastructure development.

He said: “The problem I have is that whenever we embark on these projects, people complain about what hasn’t been done, but the reality is that infrastructure drives the economy.

“When we focus on infrastructure, human capital development naturally follows. It’s not just about government jobs, it’s about creating real opportunities.

“Not less than 200 people are being employed in Kwali and other areas. These aren’t government positions, these are people working as contractors and in other capacities that come with the development of our infrastructure.”

On concerns over the provision of streetlights on newly commissioned roads, Wike, while noting that the initial plans had not included streetlights, assured that the FCTA had taken action to address the issue.

“When we flagged off these projects last year, there was no provision for streetlights. But now, in places like Kuje and Kwali, streetlights have been provided,” Wike confirmed. “The roads we flagged off in November and December will have streetlights by May or June.”

The Minster issued a stern warning to officials and landowners in Abuja, emphasising strict adherence to land regulations.

He reiterated his commitment to expediting the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), crucial for business growth and financing. Wike highlighted that his administration has already signed 7,000 C of Os in two years, surpassing the 7,000 issued by previous governments from 2015 to 2023. He vowed to take decisive action against non-compliance, stating that inefficiency within his team will not be tolerated

He said: “When I identify that you are not willing to work, I will kick you out,” disclosing the concluded decision to remove two directors from FCT Administration.

“I don’t give a damn. When I see you’re not working, I will kick you out. Heaven will not fall.”

According to him, a staggering N300 billion is being owed for Right of Occupancy (R of O) fees, arguing it is part of what is  delaying infrastructure development in the federal capital.

Wike emphasised that with revenue generation exceeding N25 billion, the timely payment of taxes and the resolution of backlogs are crucial for the growth and development of the Federal Capital Territory. He underscored that these financial measures are essential to support ongoing projects and enhance the territory’s infrastructure.

“Government gave you land, and you can’t go and pay over 15 to 16 years, what kind of country are we in?” He asked.

On recent acts of vandalism that have plunged significant parts of Abuja into darkness, he vowed that those responsible will be charged with economic sabotage rather than theft. This declaration came during a media briefing on Sunday evening, where Wike expressed his outrage over the damage inflicted on critical transmission infrastructure.

He revealed that authorities have already arrested several suspects linked to the vandalism of a 132kV transmission line and underground cables owned by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The minister made it clear that the charges would reflect the severity of the crime, stating, “We won’t charge you with stealing; we will charge you with economic sabotage. Enough is enough.”

He stressed that such actions threaten not only the stability of the capital but also the broader economic framework of the nation.

Vandalism has had a significant impact on daily life in Abuja, leaving over 60% of the city without electricity. Areas severely affected include Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Maitama, Lifecamp, Asokoro, Mabushi, and parts of the Presidential Villa, which houses President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The TCN attributed the power outages directly to these criminal acts, highlighting the urgent need for action against those who disrupt essential services.

Wike urged residents of the FCT to take an active role in safeguarding their communities by reporting any suspicious activities. “Nobody who loves his country will accept what is going on,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that community involvement is crucial in combating such acts of sabotage.

He assured citizens that security agencies are diligently working to address the situation and that those involved in the vandalism will face justice.