Minister Wike Refutes Claims Of Acquring Bullet-Proof SUV Worth N300m

On Wednesday, after a tour of the Abuja Metro Station, Idu Station, and Airport Station on the Abuja Light Rail project alongside journalists, Minister Wike responded to allegations of acquiring Bullet-Proof SUV worth N300m

This response was prompted by recent claims about a Lexus LX 600 SUV, bearing the plate FCT 01, reportedly purchased several weeks ago by FCT Permanent Secretary, Olusade Adesola, for Wike, inaugurated as minister just this Monday.

Addressing the speculations, Wike remarked, “There’s talk on social media suggesting the FCTA Permanent Secretary bought me a N300 million bullet-proof vehicle. I urge the media to verify if the car is indeed bullet-proof. It’s important that we are cautious and refrain from maligning others.”

He continued, “Upon my arrival, the Permanent Secretary informed me of a vehicle allocated for my use, which is the one in question. I haven’t authorized the purchase of any vehicle, nor am I using an official bullet-proof one. While I did use bullet-proof cars as governor, it was appropriate for the position. But as the FCT Minister, I am not using one. It’s vital we report facts and not aim to tarnish reputations.”

During his visit to the metro station, Wike was joined by the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, and Adesola. He expressed his intentions to focus on transportation to alleviate the city’s traffic issues.

Furthermore, he voiced concerns about initiating a new rail project when ongoing works on Lot 1 and Lot 3, which cover 45.245 kilometres and were inaugurated in 2018, are yet to be completed.

He did, however, confirm that the Abuja Light Rail project is set to be unveiled for public use in the forthcoming months.