FCT Council Poll: President “Very Happy” With Outcome – Wike

Addressing members of the community during the visit, Wike praised the people of Gwagwalada for demonstrating democratic maturity and maintaining peace throughout the elections. He formally acknowledged the victory of Chairman-elect Mohammed Kassim of the Peoples Democratic Party, describing the result as a true reflection of the will of the electorate.

The minister commended Kassim’s dedication and pledged that the FCT Administration would work closely with the incoming chairman to accelerate development projects within the council area. He emphasized that despite political affiliations, the chairman-elect has shown readiness to support the administration’s development agenda, noting that political cooperation in the territory has evolved beyond rigid party boundaries into what he described as a “rainbow coalition” focused on progress.

Wike also announced the creation of a Third-Class chieftaincy title for the Gbagyi people of Gwagwalada, explaining that the move forms part of the administration’s efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and acknowledge the cultural heritage of indigenous communities in the territory.

During the engagement, the minister acknowledged the pressing need for basic infrastructure in surrounding communities and assured residents of immediate intervention to address the persistent lack of potable water in Zuba. He expressed concern over the situation and assured the community that the issue would be resolved.

Offering guidance to the chairman-elect, Wike advised the incoming administration to consult widely with residents and prioritize impactful projects capable of delivering immediate benefits, rather than attempting to address all challenges simultaneously. He stressed the importance of identifying critical needs through community engagement.

The minister also reiterated the need for authentic representation in future elections, stating that the territory would no longer support candidates unfamiliar with the realities and needs of local communities. According to him, future leadership choices must reflect individuals who understand both the geography and aspirations of the people.

Wike further commended the large turnout of residents during the visit, describing it as the most impressive reception he had witnessed so far in his post-election thank-you tour. He noted that the enthusiasm demonstrated by the people signaled strong support for proactive governance and civic participation.

He assured residents that he would brief the president on the outcome of the visit and the overwhelming show of support from the community, describing Gwagwalada as a symbol of political stability and active civic engagement within the FCT.

Speaking at the event, the Aguma of Gwagwalada, HRH Alhaji Mohammed Magaji, expressed gratitude to the minister for personally visiting the community to convey appreciation, noting that the peaceful conduct of the elections reflected the unity of the people. He also commended the government for upgrading the status of traditional rulers across the territory, describing the move as a long-awaited recognition of traditional institutions.

In his remarks, Chairman-elect Kassim pledged loyalty and cooperation with the FCT Administration, stating that residents of Gwagwalada were committed to supporting initiatives that would promote development in the council. He highlighted several projects requiring urgent attention, including the dualisation of the Gwagwalada–Dobi Road, commonly known as the Specialist Road, as well as the Dukpa Road and Bridge, Ikwa Road, and the 13-kilometre Zuba-Shenenga Road, which he said becomes largely impassable during the rainy season.