Between Bala Mohammed and Wike

The recent utterances and actions of Chief Barrister Nyesom Wike, former governor of Rivers state and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have raised serious concerns about his political approach and its implications for the country. 

Wike’s unwarranted remarks and threats to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, warning that he would “put fire” in Bauchi state if Bala Mohammed interfered in Rivers state politics, are utterly unnecessary and may undermine efforts to build and maintain peace, cohesion, collaboration, and mutual respect among leaders and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Wike’s behaviour is characteristic of an ego-driven struggle for relevance leading him to engage in brinkmanship, pushing situations to the edge of crisis without considering the consequences. 

His actions can provoke reactions and create a larger-than-life image which can be very dangerous for Nigeria’s democracy.

As a keen observer of his political trajectory, it is clear that Wike’s actions are driven by a desire for political relevance rather than a genuine commitment to his party, the PDP. His threats against the Bauchi state governor are unwarranted and unproductive, reflecting a misguided approach to political engagement. 

In contrast, Governor Bala Mohammed’s leadership exemplifies a commitment to party supremacy and the well-being of the country. His dedication to ideological principles and unity of purpose is a beacon of hope for effective governance.

Wike’s attempts to feign moral superiority and launch diatribes against Governor Bala Mohammed will only undermine the efforts to revitalise the party ahead of the next elections in 2027. 

It is obvious that Wike’s threat is a misstep, and an attempt to remain relevant. However, his antics will not be tolerated, and our governor will not be swayed or intimidated by his threats and will stand firm towards ensuring that the returns to its winning ways.

It is pertinent to remind Wike that Governor Bala is always on the comfortable step of miles ahead of him politically. Right from 2007, when Wike was appointed by his then mentor and predecessor, Rotimi Ameachi, as a chief of staff in Rivers state government House, Bala Mohammed was elected as a senator. Even the current position that makes Barrister Wike feel superior was occupied by the same Bala Mohammed nine years ago. Bala Mohammed’s milestones and sterling leadership qualities made him clearly on the annals of history as the first FCT minister who served for a consecutive six years term.

To buttress my assertions, let’s critically appraise Bala Mohammed’s reforms and projects in the FCT and see if Wike is following suit.

During his tenure at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Bala Mohammed implemented extensive reforms and executed numerous projects that transformed the landscape of Abuja. One of his notable achievements was the sanitisation of land administration, which brought order and transparency to the sector.

He also oversaw the expansion of major road access to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, construction of Kubwa expressway, and the development of rail track from Abuja to Kaduna, including the Idu rail station.

Furthermore, he introduced the land swap policy, which utilised land as a resource to fast-track infrastructural development in the FCT.

In addition, the Bala Mohammed administration installed solar panel traffic lights, aggressively developed satellite towns, and completed the Usama Dam Water project. He also established the FCT Internal Revenue Board, Outdoor Advertising Agency, and FCTA Emergency Services, which served as bedrock of financial stability and employment opportunities.

Moreover, the Bala Mohammed administration initiated the development of a World Trade Centre at the former Bakassi Market, the Abuja Town Centre project, and the Abuja Millennium City Project. 

He also facilitated the development of Abuja Film Village International and Katampe District infrastructure through public-private partnerships.

Through the land swap system, his administration developed new districts, including Jahi, Wuye, Guzape, Maitama Extension, Kagini, and Katampe. He also promoted recreation, cleanliness, and ascetic beauty by reviving parks and gardens and introducing robust traffic control and regulation.

The completion and commissioning of major interchanges at AYA, Asokoro, Banex Junction, Jahi/Mabushi Link, and Gwarimpa 11 Kado/Life Camp Junction significantly eased traffic flow in the city and its environs.

Bala Mohammed also enforced the Abuja Master plan, substantially raised the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) profile of FCT, and facilitated the passage of FCT Internal Revenue Bill.

His administration attracted foreign investors in the expansion of Abuja Botanical Gardens and Parks and reviewed the concessionaire of Eagle Square and International Conference Centre to private facility managers, enhancing their status and preventing revenue leakages.

Over all, Bala Mohammed’s single-minded execution of his assignment at the FCTA has earned him a place in the hearts of Nigerians. I advise Wike to focus on building on the legacies of Bala Mohammed at the FCT instead of dissipating his energy in issuing threats that can overheat the polity. Let him continue to work so he may have something to show after he leaves FCT like we are now proudly show-casing the achievements of our principal. 

Wike’s actions may in the end prove to be counterproductive. It high time he re-evaluated his approach and seek a more constructive path. We, as loyal party members, remain committed to our principles and pledge allegiance to our constitution and loyalty to our leaders. We will not engage in destructive propaganda or violence, instead opting for systematic and sustained political engagement.

In conclusion, we urge Wike to reflect on his actions and retrace his steps. We must learn from the past and work towards a brighter future for our party, the PDP, and the nation. By so doing, we will build a more united and prosperous Nigeria.

Abdulrazaq Zaki is the Commissioner for Water Resources, Bauchi State.