The African Action Congress (AAC) has formally challenged Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike to substantiate his claim of renovating over 60 schools in the territory with tangible facts.
Wike made this assertion during an inspection of road projects in Gwagwalada and Kwali Area Councils, stating that his administration had renovated more than 60 schools in less than two years. He dismissed allegations that his focus was solely on road infrastructure, emphasizing that quality roads enhance access to education and other essential services .
In response, the AAC FCT Chairman, Agena Robert Ande in a statement on Wednesday called for transparency and accountability, urging the minister to provide verifiable evidence of the renovated schools.
They insist on the provision of specific details for each schoolโs location, such as the area council, nearby landmarks, and the names and contact information of the contractors responsible for the projects.
The party also called for comprehensive financial records, including contract amounts, payment schedules, and disbursement histories, as well as project timelines detailing the start and completion dates of each renovation.
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“We are appalled by Minister Wikeโs deceitful assertion that sixty schools have been renovated across the FCT. This is clearly a calculated move to mislead the people.”
โSuch claims, if left unchallenged, would set a dangerous precedent for accountability and governance in the FCT.โ
“This is not just about politics โ itโs about transparency, public trust, and responsible governance,โ Ande said. โMinister Wikeโs lies will not go unchallenged.โ
“We urge the people of FCT to demand accountability always and transparency from their leaders. Minister Wike’s actions are a clear example of the APC/PDP disregard for the truth and their willingness to deceive the public as usual.”
“If Minister Wike fails to provide the demanded information, it will be clear that his claims are nothing but a web of lies designed to manipulate public opinion. We will not stand and watch while Minister Wike, a puppet of APC attempt to deceive the people of FCT for their selfish political gains.โ
“We must not hesitate to tell the FCT Minister Wike that lies will not deliver FCT to the APC as he stated. The people of FCT deserve better. We demand transparency, accountability, and good governance. Anything less is unacceptable.”
The party’s challenge highlights concerns about the actual impact of the renovations and whether they align with the minister’s claims.
This development comes amid ongoing discussions about the state of educational infrastructure in the FCT. While the administration has committed substantial funds to school rehabilitation, including a N30.9 billion investment for the renovation of 40 schools and an accelerated whole-school rehabilitation approach for 18 schools , there are reports of deteriorating conditions in some schools. For instance, LEA Primary School Barwa in Abuja Municipal Area Council has been described as unsafe and nearly unusable, with broken ceiling boards and leaking roofs .
The AAC’s challenge underscores the need for transparency and effective monitoring of public infrastructure projects to ensure that claims of development are substantiated and that resources are utilized effectively to improve the quality of education in the FCT.
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