Senator Adams Oshiomhole has praised Nyesom Wike for his contributions as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), commending the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for allowing Wike, a key member of the opposition, to serve under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Wike, a high-ranking PDP member, supported Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 presidential election following disagreements with his party. His subsequent appointment as FCT Minister has been described by Oshiomhole as akin to a football club letting its “best player” join a rival.

“Thank you to PDP for giving us Nyesom Wike to help us fix Abuja,” Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, remarked at a New Year luncheon hosted by Wike in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He likened the situation to a football transfer, stating, “When you are giving your best player to another club, you pay heavily. PDP Rivers led you to us without saying we should pay a transfer fee. We may not be happy to return you; we would even create a toll gate to prevent that.”

The former Edo State governor also highlighted Wike’s impact on the FCT, praising his enforcement of the rule of law and adherence to environmental regulations.

“We are celebrating a Nigerian who is adding value to the FCT, showing that there must be respect for the rule of law and environmental laws,” Oshiomhole said, acknowledging that Wike’s reforms in Abuja might involve “stepping on toes” to achieve positive changes.

He concluded by thanking Wike for his ongoing contributions to the FCT and the nation, emphasizing the significance of his efforts in addressing critical issues in Abuja. The luncheon was attended by notable figures from Rivers State and beyond.