Senator Adams Oshiomhole has commended the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his contributions to President Bola Tinubu’s administration, referring to him as a valuable asset borrowed from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North in the Senate, expressed gratitude to the PDP for allowing Wike, a senior member of the party, to serve in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government. Speaking at a New Year luncheon hosted by Wike in Port Harcourt, he likened the situation to a football club transferring its star player.
He remarked, “Thank you to the PDP for giving us Nyesom Wike to help us fix Abuja. I don’t belong to any club; I only belong to Bendel Insurance, but I hear what those who say they are Manchester United fans talk about.”
He added humorously, “When you give your best player to another club, you pay a hefty price. Thank you for helping us in the APC. PDP Rivers led you to us without demanding a transfer fee. We may not want to return you; we might even create a tollgate to prevent that.”
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, had supported Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election following disagreements with his party and was subsequently appointed as FCT Minister. Oshiomhole praised Wike’s efforts in transforming the FCT, highlighting his dedication to enforcing the rule of law and implementing environmental policies.
“Tonight, we are celebrating a Nigerian who is adding value to the FCT and demonstrating the importance of the rule of law and adherence to specific environmental regulations. Thank you for what you are doing in Nigeria and for your efforts in Abuja,” he stated.