Wike  Enmeshed In Media Controversy Over N300 Million SUV Lexus LX 600 Official Car, Abuja Demolitions

With only two days in office, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has been enmeshed in media controversies over his disposition.

A statement by the Director of Press, Anthony Ogunleye, disputes the reports on the number of buildings, settlement areas allegedly marked for demolition by the Minister and the acquisition of flamboyant multimillion naira SUV car.

Reports earlier had it that Wike is embarking on a demolition spree targeting 6000 houses across 30 settlements in Abuja as well as the Wadata Plaza.

Further was that he had acquired ₦300 million Armored Lexus LX 600 fitted with ‘FCT – 01’ as his official car.

However, reacting personally on the car reports, Wednesday, Wike did not dispute the estimated cost of the car but only said it was not a bulletproof one.

But Ogunleye faulted the reports saying “these stories are entirely false and without any basis in reality.”

 According to him, “For  the avoidance of doubt, the Minister did not in any of his pronouncements list the areas or the number of illegal houses to be removed, rather his emphasis has always been that illegal settlements and structures would be removed for the greater good of the public. 

“Equally vexing is the headline from a reputable broadcast station saying, “I will fix Abuja in 6 days” and attributed same to the FCT Minister. We wish to state quite clearly that at no time did the Honourable Minister say this or allude to this phrase in any way. This headline therefore, is borne purely out of mischief.

“The Honourable Minister has consistently demonstrated a commitment to responsible urban development and the welfare of the people even while he was the governor of Rivers State, a commitment he has assured residents within the FCT since he assumed office as Minister. The claim that he is orchestrating large-scale demolitions is not only inaccurate but also lacks credibility

“Such sensationalist reporting not only misleads the public but also undermines the vital role that accurate and well-researched journalism plays in our society.

“It is important to remember that the development and maintenance of the FCT is guided by carefully crafted policies and regulations, with a focus on sustainable urban growth and the preservation of residents’ rights. Any decisions made in this regard are rooted in comprehensive assessments, community consultations, and adherence to the rule of law.”