Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Dr. Nyesom Wike, has refuted viral claims suggesting he collapsed and was rushed to a hospital in France, calling the rumors baseless and politically motivated.
Wike addressed journalists on Thursday during an inspection tour of key infrastructural projects in Abuja, where he strongly denied the speculations about his health.
“I’m alive, well, and fully in charge,” he said. “I didn’t collapse, I wasn’t flown abroad. I’m not a ghost. These falsehoods are mere distractions meant to divert attention from the real issues, like the former Head of Service’s revelations about threats to national assets and the House of Assembly.”
The Minister pointed to his recent public appearances, including attending the President’s iftar birthday celebration and leading Sallah homage in Abuja, as evidence of his robust health.
“This is all politics. We’re used to it. We’ve got thick skin. Our focus remains on the job,” he added.
Major Projects on Track Ahead of Tinubu’s Anniversary
On the ongoing development projects across the FCT, Wike expressed satisfaction, especially with the progress at the International Conference Centre. He commended Julius Berger, the main contractor, for maintaining quality and sticking to timelines.
“We’re preparing to commission several major projects as part of President Bola Tinubu’s second-year anniversary. The work being done is not only on schedule but of top-notch quality,” he noted.
Wike also visited Gishiri and the road networks leading to the Justices’ Quarters, expressing delight at the level of work done.
Looking ahead, he mentioned plans to inspect more sites including OSEX and roads leading to the EFCC headquarters.
‘We’re Doing More With Less’ – Wike on Funding
Amid concerns over funding, Wike attributed their smooth operations to effective resource management and trust from contractors.
“No government ever has enough resources. It’s about how you manage what you have. Today, I released more payments to contractors, and they’re not complaining because we are transparent and reliable,” he said.
The Minister’s remarks come in response to disturbing images and fake obituaries circulated on social media falsely announcing his death, a move he labeled as desperate and mischievous.
