FCT monarchs back Tinubu, hail Wike as ‘development kingmaker’

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Traditional rulers and community leaders across the Federal Capital Territory have praised President Bola Tinubu, pledging firm loyalty and promising a strong 2027 re-election campaign, largely credited to Nyesom Wike’s impact on FCT development.

In separate visits to Karshi, Karu, Garki and Bwari by the FCT Renewed Hope Ambassadors, led by Coordinator Adamu Abdullahi, emirs, chiefs and local leaders hailed Tinubu’s decision to appoint an Abuja indigene to the ministerial seat, saying it has strengthened their sense of belonging in the federation’s capital.

“The appointment of an Abuja indigene as Minister and in strategic national roles has strengthened our people’s sense of belonging and purpose within the federation,” the leaders said, while commending Wike’s role in driving infrastructure projects across the territory.

Abdullahi, who described Tinubu’s administration as a beacon of inclusive governance, said: “History will judge this administration fairly for its commitment to fairness, national integration, and faith in the FCT’s capacity to drive Nigeria forward.”

At the palace in Karshi, representatives of the Emir, Alhaji Ismaila Danladi Muhammad, described Abdullahi as a “son of the soil” and close ally of the community, pledging: “We won’t disappoint President Tinubu for entrusting our brother with coordinating the Renewed Hope charge.”

Hakimin Karshi, Alhaji Jibrin Danladi Adanda, commended ongoing road projects but called for more interventions, urging the authorities to “sustain the momentum to meet our needs.”

In Karu, the Sa’karuyi, Joseph Danfulani Narai, praised Abdullahi’s contributions to grassroots development, while in Garki, the Sapeyi, Alhaji (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi, said Tinubu’s recognition of FCT indigenes placed a moral obligation on them to demonstrate loyalty at the polls.

He said the recent appointments and development projects “impose a moral duty on us — loyalty and votes for the APC in 2027, in appreciation of these developmental strides.”

In Bwari, the Sarkin, Alhaji Awwal Musa Ijakoro, assured of full support from the traditional institution, citing Wike’s interventions in roads, the Nigerian Law School project and the enhanced role of traditional rulers.

The Esu of Bwari, Ibrahim Yaro, also praised Abdullahi’s integrity and pledged to mobilise all chiefs in the area in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid.