ABUJA – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said Nigerians should consider themselves fortunate to have a leader like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a President who upholds the rule of law and tolerates criticism.

Wike made the remarks on Thursday during the flag-off of the Arterial Road N1 project in Wuye District, Abuja. He noted that while criticisms are a natural part of democracy, some recent public comments had crossed boundaries, citing a social media post by activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.

“This is a country where somebody on social media will say Mr President is a criminal, and nothing will happen,” Wike said. “You are lucky you have a President who believes in the rule of law. Continue to be lucky. There are those you will meet that you won’t be lucky again.”

The minister emphasized that even in countries with strong democratic traditions, such as the United States, citizens rarely go as far as describing their President as a criminal.

Wike also dismissed rumours that he had suffered a heart attack and travelled abroad for treatment. “I hear they said I had a heart attack. God will continue to help them to have a heart attack,” he said. “It is my prayer that I will sign their condolences.”

On the ongoing strike by resident doctors in the FCT, Wike disclosed that the administration has earmarked ₦25 billion for health sector projects in the 2025 budget, while stressing the need to follow due process in addressing issues of allowances and recruitment.

“The SSS called me that people said they will demonstrate, that we are paying attention to roads and not to health. I told them demonstrations are allowed everywhere. Nobody will blackmail me or stop me from doing what is right, at the right time,” he said.

He further cautioned against politicising the FCT Civil Service, urging civil servants to separate political affiliations from official duties.