“August 1 national protest is politically motivated” – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has characterized the planned national protest on August 1 as politically motivated, suggesting it aims to distract Nigerians from the ongoing efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Wike made these remarks on Tuesday, July 23, during an inspection tour of the Apo-Karshi Road in Abuja. He urged Nigerians to be patient with the Federal Government, assuring them that measures are being put in place to alleviate the current economic hardships.

During his visit, the minister issued a seven-month ultimatum to the contractors responsible for the Apo-Karshi Road project to expedite and complete the construction. Expressing dissatisfaction with the slow progress, Wike attributed the delays to individuals with personal and political interests.

He revealed that 80% of the contract’s total cost had already been paid, leaving no justification for the project’s prolonged completion. The Apo-Karshi Road project, which spans over 13 kilometres, was awarded in 2011 under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan at an estimated cost of N6 billion. Despite the passage of 13 years, the project remains unfinished.