The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has said the peaceful conduct of elections in the territory reflects residents’ commitment to democracy and good governance.

He added that the outcome of the polls exposed what he described as the hypocrisy of politicians who stage-manage interactions with roadside traders in a bid to mislead voters.

“This election has indeed shown that Nigerians now know the ruling party and the real opposition party.

“Also, the election has further exposed the hypocrisy of people who go about buying corn and groundnuts from roadside sellers for the purpose of a campaign just to deceive Nigerians.

“Yesterday, the residents of FCT demonstrated that they cannot be deceived by emergency democrats, who have chosen not to see anything good in our country and its government,” Wike was quoted as saying in a special broadcast on Sunday evening, in a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Lere Olayinka.

The minister praised President Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the election as a reflection of the President’s vision and leadership, and a testament to the optimism inspired by the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“I thank Mr. President for the development he has brought to the FCT. This election is a reflection of the President’s vision and leadership, and a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda has brought optimism and confidence to the people of the FCT.

“No doubt, the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly the residents of the FCT, has not gone unnoticed. The Renewed Hope Agenda has given us hope for a brighter future, and we are confident that under his leadership, the FCT will continue to be a model of development and progress,” he said.

Wike further commended the President for “standing firm in his defence of democracy, particularly in ensuring the amendment of the Electoral Act to strengthen the conduct of credible elections”, describing this as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s democratic process.

He also congratulated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting what he described as a free, fair, and credible election, attributing this to the President’s resolve to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure transparent and reliable electoral processes.

The minister lauded the security agencies for their professionalism and dedication, noting that their efforts ensured the peaceful conduct of the polls and contributed to the success of the democratic exercise.

Wike urged those elected to serve with humility, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.

“Work tirelessly to improve the lives of the residents, and bring development to our communities.

“To the residents of the FCT, especially those in the satellite towns, I once again commend you for coming out in large numbers to exercise your franchise, and for doing so in a peaceful and orderly manner.

“Your participation affirms your trust in our democracy, and I urge you to continue to support the government in its efforts to build a better FCT.

“As an administration, we pledge to continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to FCT residents, in accordance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” he added.