Tinubu Threatened to Sack Wike Over FCT TSA Removal Request

President Bola Tinubu has revealed an intriguing conversation that led him to issue a political warning to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. The discussion, which revolved around a major financial policy change, nearly cost Wike his position in the cabinet.

Speaking on Sunday, when Wike led FCT residents on a Sallah homage to the State House in Abuja, Tinubu disclosed that Wike had requested an exemption for the FCT from the Treasury Single Account (TSA). This request, according to Tinubu, was meant to enable the minister to work more effectively and deliver on his mandate. However, the president saw a political dimension to the request and issued a stern warning to Wike.

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FCT TSA Request Sparks Political Tension

During the gathering, Tinubu recounted how Wike approached him with the request to remove the FCT from the TSA framework. The TSA, which was implemented to ensure transparency and centralized financial management, limits the independent spending power of ministries and agencies.

Wike’s argument was that exiting the TSA would provide the FCT with greater financial flexibility, allowing him to execute projects more efficiently. However, Tinubu saw beyond the administrative implications and questioned whether the request had political undertones that could favor Wike’s party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), over the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“He (Wike) came up with a lot of good ideas. I remember the day Nyesom Wike came to me and said, ‘Please take us out of this problem of TSA so I can do more work and achieve more.’ And I said, ‘Show me what you are about to do,’ and he presented himself,” Tinubu explained.

However, the president’s response was a mix of political strategy and governance oversight. Tinubu recalled asking Wike, “Would that give me any opportunity for my party to win elections in FCT? I know where you are coming from, your own party or my party, but if this thing goes too much in your own favor, you will lose your job.”

The statement, though delivered humorously, carried a serious undertone. It highlighted Tinubu’s political acumen and his determination to ensure that policies enacted under his administration did not compromise the APC’s political standing in the capital city.

Wike’s Political Position and APC’s Interests

Wike, a prominent member of the PDP, played a significant role in the 2023 general elections. Despite being a member of the opposition party, he openly worked against the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. His actions were pivotal in ensuring that Tinubu secured critical votes. This strategic alignment led to his appointment as the Minister of the FCT, a position usually reserved for close political allies of the sitting president.

By accepting the FCT ministerial role under an APC-led government, Wike positioned himself in a unique political space. However, Tinubu’s recent revelation shows that the president remains cautious about Wike’s moves, ensuring that his administration’s decisions align with APC’s broader electoral strategy.

Wike’s response to Tinubu’s warning was both diplomatic and humorous. He reportedly replied, “We will settle that, Oga,” suggesting that he was aware of the political implications and willing to navigate them carefully.

TSA Exemption: A Political or Developmental Move?

The Treasury Single Account is a critical financial reform policy designed to centralize government revenue collection, improve accountability, and reduce corruption. While some argue that the TSA restricts quick financial decisions, others believe it is a necessary measure to ensure transparency and prevent mismanagement of public funds.

Wike’s request for the FCT to be exempted from the TSA raises questions about financial management in the territory. If granted, it would have given the minister greater control over funds, allowing him to bypass certain bureaucratic bottlenecks. However, the potential risks of financial mismanagement and reduced federal oversight may have outweighed the benefits.

From Tinubu’s perspective, approving Wike’s request without ensuring political benefits for the APC would have been a strategic miscalculation. His cautious approach underscores his commitment to balancing governance with political strategy.

Implications for Future Political Alliances

The exchange between Tinubu and Wike highlights the complex political dynamics at play in Nigeria’s current administration. It also signals that while Wike enjoys a strong working relationship with the president, his position is not guaranteed if his actions do not align with APC’s political interests.

Moving forward, Wike’s role in the FCT will be closely monitored, especially regarding financial decisions and project execution. His ability to deliver on his mandate while maintaining political neutrality will determine his long-term relevance in Tinubu’s cabinet.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, the FCT’s political landscape will likely become a battleground for both the APC and PDP. Tinubu’s remarks indicate that every policy decision will be weighed not only on its developmental merits but also on its potential electoral impact.

In conclusion, Tinubu’s warning to Wike serves as a reminder that in Nigerian politics, governance and political survival are deeply intertwined. While Wike may have good intentions for the FCT, his actions will continue to be scrutinized through a political lens. Whether he remains in Tinubu’s cabinet in the long run will depend on his ability to balance administrative performance with political loyalty.