Tinubu praises Wike, says FCT achievements boosted APC in council polls

President Bola Tinubu has commended Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory, saying his “remarkable achievements” contributed to the electoral success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Saturday’s polls.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the president congratulated winners of the elections held in the Federal Capital Territory as well as in Kano State and Rivers State.

According to the statement, the president urged those elected to serve with humility, patriotism, and dedication, describing their mandate as a sacred trust from the people.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted elections across the six area councils of the FCT, alongside by-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies in Rivers, and Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano.

Tinubu also congratulated the APC national leadership, party officials in Kano and Rivers, and members nationwide for the victories recorded at the polls.

He praised Wike’s performance in the FCT, noting that the minister’s achievements have delivered political gains for the ruling party.

The president further commended INEC, security agencies, and voters for ensuring a peaceful process, while applauding contestants for their courage and discipline, adding that active participation strengthens democracy.

Tinubu said the successful elections reinforce democratic institutions and encouraged INEC to continue improving its processes to deliver even more credible polls.

Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former governor of Rivers, was appointed FCT minister by Tinubu despite belonging to an opposition party. His role in the APC-led administration since the 2023 elections has sparked criticism within the PDP, with some members accusing him of undermining the party.