Pastor Praises Tinubu for Appointing Wike as FCT Minister, Calls Him a Visionary Leader.
The Vicar of St. James Anglican Church, Abuja, Ben Idume, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Nyesom Wike as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the President as a “visionary leader who recognized Wike’s potential.”
Idume made these remarks during a thanksgiving service held to mark the completion of various projects under the FCT Administration led by Wike.
"I must thank President Tinubu for appointing this man as minister," Idume said. "The President is truly a visionary. He saw the potential in Wike. Whether his eyes are open or closed, Tinubu can see the future. That’s why he chose Wike, and today, we in the FCT are reaping the benefits.”
The cleric also praised Tinubu for seeing beyond political and regional divides, noting that the President’s decision to appoint Wike reflects his ability to recognize and empower capable individuals.
Idume further addressed the skepticism that followed Wike’s appointment, recalling how some critics had opposed the idea of a Christian and a southerner serving as FCT Minister.
"When he was appointed, some people swore it would never happen—‘How can a Christian be FCT Minister? How can a southerner be appointed?’ But today, God has used him to change the narrative," he said.
Expressing confidence in Wike’s capacity, Idume said he believes the minister will achieve even more by the end of his tenure, citing his strong track record as the former Governor of Rivers State.
"This church is grateful to God for the appointment of a Christian minister from the South who is now rewriting the history of the FCT," he added.
Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), openly supported President Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election and was later appointed FCT Minister in 2024. Despite serving in an APC-led government, Wike has remained vocal about his loyalty to the PDP.
"I have no regrets, and I offer no apologies," Wike stated during another thanksgiving event in Ochigba, organised by the PDP in Ahoada East and West LGAs. "If I had to do it again, I would."
The thanksgiving service in Abuja was attended by top government officials and political figures, including Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri.
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