By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused wealthy residents of Abuja of evading taxes and acting as though they are above the law.
He made this known during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Monday, calling on Nigerians to pray for him daily as he tackles powerful interests resisting accountability.
Wike expressed frustration over the attitude of influential individuals living and doing business in highbrow areas such as Maitama, Wuse, Garki, and the Central Business District, accusing them of deliberately avoiding their civic responsibilities.
According to the Minister, many of these elites project themselves as defenders of the poor while living in some of the most exclusive neighborhoods.
“How many poor people live in Maitama or Wuse?” he asked. “The rich hire people to speak in the media as if they’re representing the poor, but how many poor people own homes or businesses in these areas?”
He emphasized the critical role taxation plays in governance, noting that developed nations often treat tax evasion as a more serious offense than many crimes.
Wike warned that despite the backlash, the FCT Administration would not back down on enforcing tax laws.
“You should be praying for people like us every day because of what we go through,” he said. “When we make tough decisions, there’s a lot of noise. But the public needs to ask questions when the high and mighty resist the law.”
Wike reiterated his commitment to holding all residents accountable and ensuring that those who benefit most from the city’s infrastructure contribute their fair share.
