Yes, I Found Irregularities In FCTA’s Project Execution, But No Plan To Probe Ex Minister – Wike

The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike has said that though he found irregularities in the ways projects were executed during the eight year administration of the immediate past minister, Muhammad Musa Bello but that he is not contemplating of asking that he should be probed.

Wike was reacting to recent online media reports, claiming that he plans to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate Musa Bello, in relation to certain irregularities in the award of contracts and other such matters.

In a statement today, September 9, by the Director of Press in the minister’s office, Anthony Ogunleye, the minister “categorically and unequivocally state that these reports are entirely baseless and without any merit whatsoever.”

He however admitted that during his routine inspections of various projects within the FCT, he has cause “to express concerns and frustrations regarding irregularities in the procurement and execution of certain projects, amongst other observations which he very publicly expressed.

“However, at no point did I contemplate or authorize any action by anyone within or outside the FCT Administration to invite the EFCC or ICPC to investigate the former FCT Minister in connection with these or any other matters.”

The statement said that the online story in question is nothing more than a product of the imagination of its authors and is clearly designed to mischievously sow discord and confusion among the general public.

“We view such misinformation with great concern and urge the public and well-meaning Nigerians to exercise caution and discernment when encountering such unfounded reports.”

The Minister said that he remains focused on his responsibilities to ensure the efficient and transparent administration of the capital city, saying that any action or decision taken by the administration in this regard will be communicated through official channels and in accordance with due process.

“We hereby advise the general public to disregard the story in its entirety, as it is nothing but a deliberate attempt to spread fake news and create unnecessary tensions.

He vowed to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability in the discharge of his duties.