Stories by Stanley Onyekwere
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that he would be the one writing condolences for the passing of his death rumour-mongers.
Wike, who refuted the rumors of his sudden collapse and possible death, dismissing it as laughable and politically motivated.
However, attributed it to detractors engaging in dirty politics aimed at causing confusion and distracting his supporters.
He asserted this yesterday while answering questions from journalists during an inspection of ongoing projects lined up for commissioning to mark President Tinubu’s second year in Office.
His response is coming just six days after malicious reports circulated on social media alleging his demise, even as he actively engaged in official duties.
It could be that on the said day, Wike had held meetings with a delegation from the Body of Benchers and carried out inspection of projects across the FCT, working until 5 PM.
According to the Minister: “There was no time I collapsed, there was no time anybody took me overseas. But you see me every day. The day Mr President broke iftar on his birthday, I was there.
“The next day, I led Abuja residents to pay Sallah homage. I see all those stories just died down.This is politics.
“We know that we will die one day. Nobody will remain in this world forever, but it is only God that says the day you will die, not any human being.”
“So, you have seen that I am even healthier than most of them who carried that rumour and I will write their condolence letters. I can assure you that I will write their condolence letters.”
Meanwhile, he reassured the citizenry of his unwavering commitment to delivering developmental projects that would enhance the living standards of the people.
Also, the Minister while expressing satisfaction with the progress of ongoing projects, equally commended contractors for their work and reiterated that his administration remains focused on infrastructural transformation.
Some of the projects inspected include access roads to the Justices’ Quarters, the N16 interchange road in Gishiri- Katampe District, and the Abuja International Conference Centre.
On funding for the projects, the minister attributed the achievements so far recorded in the territory to prudent resource management.
He therefore urged residents and taxpayers to support Abuja’s development by paying their taxes promptly, to get more funds for more people-oriented projects.
