Senator Adams Oshiomhole has commended the efforts of Nyesom Wike in advancing development in the Federal Capital Territory, expressing gratitude to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party for allowing Wike to serve in the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Wike, a prominent member of the PDP, supported Tinubu’s presidential bid in the 2023 elections after a fallout with his party, leading to his appointment as Minister of the FCT.
Oshiomhole likened the situation to a football club letting its top player join a rival team, acknowledging the significant value Wike brings to the current administration.
Oshiomhole further expressed his appreciation for Wike’s role in supporting the All Progressives Congress and the positive impact he has made in the FCT. The lawmaker, representing Edo North, made a lighthearted comment about Wike’s transfer from PDP to APC, likening it to a player being moved without a transfer fee. He humorously added that while they might not be keen on letting Wike go, they would take measures to ensure his continued presence, according to Channels TV.
During the event, Oshiomhole praised Wike for his work in the FCT, particularly his commitment to enforcing the rule of law and adhering to environmental regulations. He acknowledged that Wike’s role as FCT Minister would inevitably involve difficult decisions and actions, but that they were necessary to bring about meaningful change.
Oshiomhole thanked Wike for his contributions to both Abuja and the nation, recognizing his efforts in driving positive reforms. The gathering, which took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, was attended by prominent figures from Rivers State and beyond.
“Thank you to PDP for giving us Nyesom Wike to help us fix Abuja. I don’t belong to any club, I only belong to Bendel Insurance but I listen to those who say they are Manchester United fans [and the likes]. When you are giving your best player to another club, you pay heavily,” the lawmaker representing Edo North said on Friday at a New Year luncheon organised by Wike in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
“Thank you for what you’re helping us in APC to do. PDP Rivers led you to us without saying we should pay a transfer fee. We may not be happy to return you; we would even create a toll gate to prevent that,” Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State, said during the event.
The lawmaker said, “Tonight, we are celebrating a Nigerian who is adding value to the FCT; who is showing there has to be the rule of law and that we must respect certain environmental laws”.
He said Wike’s job as the FCT minister means he would “step on toes” to set things right.
“So, thank you for what you are doing in Nigeria; thank you for what you are doing in Abuja,” Senator Oshiomhole told the gathering including top shots in Rivers State and beyond.
