Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has pushed back against criticisms targeting FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, over the recent flooding in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Agbese argued that holding the minister solely responsible was misplaced, and that residents also need to own up to actions that worsen flooding in the capital.
According to him, attacking Wike over the floods is “like the Israelites turning against Moses after he led them toward the Promised Land.”
“We must learn to appreciate leadership that is bringing change,” Agbese stated. “Government cannot do it all alone. It requires the cooperation of the people to get results.”
The Labour Party lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency in Benue State said since Wike assumed office, there has been renewed focus on roads, transportation networks, drainage systems and other key infrastructure across Abuja and its surrounding towns.
He noted that the FCT Administration has delivered 221 kilometers of roads out of the 317 kilometers awarded in satellite areas since President Tinubu came into office, with work still ongoing in several communities.
Agbese also listed completed and commissioned projects within the city center, including the Gwarinpa-Jahi Interchange, Airport-Kuje Road, Kuje-Gwagwalada Road, and parts of the Outer Southern Expressway.
The federal lawmaker described Wike as “a prophet without honour in his own home,” saying the minister’s efforts in the FCT are being acknowledged outside while some residents dwell on isolated cases instead of the bigger picture of development.
“At a time Wike is getting recognition globally, some people back home are still busy criticizing him,” he added. “We should applaud what is working and at the same time point out areas that need fixing.”
On the cause of the floods, Agbese blamed poor waste disposal habits, saying many residents dump refuse into drainages and waterways, which blocks free flow of water during heavy downpours.
“You can’t throw trash into drainage channels and then turn around to blame the minister when rain falls and there’s nowhere for the water to go,” he said.
He called on Abuja residents to stop using waterways as dumpsites and to alert authorities whenever they notice blocked or encroached drainage channels.
Agbese also urged the FCT Administration to sustain investment in drainage and flood-control projects, while stepping up enforcement against illegal dumping and building on waterways.
“Abuja belongs to all of us,” the UK-trained lawyer said. “We must partner with the FCT Administration to safeguard the infrastructure on ground and keep our environment clean. Government has its role, citizens have theirs too.”
He concluded that the focus should be on building a more resilient FCT that can withstand population growth, climate pressures and rapid urbanization, rather than politicizing every challenge. 
