N10m reward to councillors not for vote-buying - Wike

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has defended his pledge to award N10 million to councillors who support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections, stating the funds are a reward for political engagement rather than a bid to purchase votes. Wike clarified during a visit to Abuja that he did not ask the councillors to use the money to sway voters, but instead challenged them to work diligently and persuade residents to back the President.

Speaking on Tuesday, Wike addressed concerns over the monetary incentive during an inspection of ongoing development projects. He maintained that his request was for councillors to prove their dedication and rally support for Tinubu, with the N10 million reward promised if they achieved success. The minister announced the N10 million offer at a gathering with political allies, traditional leaders, and councillors in Kwali Area Council on Monday, explaining it as part of the Rainbow Coalition's grassroots strategy to bolster Tinubu's campaign.

Wike defended the initiative by likening the reward to incentives given to athletes for winning international competitions, questioning why such a measure in politics should be deemed as vote-buying. He argued that political parties and candidates routinely spend money on campaign advertisements without facing similar accusations.

"Politicians and candidates lavish money on election advertising without attracting the same criticism," Wike added. He emphasized the distinction between offering money to sway voters and rewarding individuals for their political efforts.