APC Chairman Reacts As Wike Promises FCT Councillors ₦10 Million

Naija News reports that Yilwatda, who appeared on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, insisted that the offer did not amount to vote buying.

At a political gathering in Kwali Area Council, Wike pledged to give ₦10 million to every councillor who delivers their ward to Tinubu and other APC candidates.

Yilwatda said the pledge was directed at about 60 councillors in the FCT and was meant to spur them to work harder.

When asked if the offer was an inducement, the APC chairman said it was normal for parties to provide money for mobilisation.

“Which political party doesn’t release money for mobilisation? Which political party? So, tell me one. No, it’s not for votes,” he said.

He likened it to a reward for students who excel in examinations.

Yilwatda argued that because the money would be paid only after the results were declared and all legal processes concluded, it could not influence the election outcome.

“It matters because if the money is given after the election has been concluded and the winner has been declared and there’s nothing at stake again… that you legally deliver your ward by giving you ₦10 million,” he said.

Pressed again on whether it was vote buying, he answered, “Never.”

On whether Senate President Godswill Akpabio would retain his seat if re-elected, Yilwatda said it was too early to decide.

“Let’s wait for the election first. I don’t have anybody in mind. The Senate will determine who they want to make the Senate President,” he said.

The APC chairman also sympathised with victims of pre-election violence and said party supporters should not be involved in attacks.

“Our party stands for free and fair elections,” he said.

Copy link Copied! Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Telegram Follow Naija News on Google Author: Enioluwa Adeniyi Adeniyi Damilola is an Assistant Editor at Naija News with nine years of experience covering politics, business, and education. He holds a B.Sc. in Psychology from Ekiti State University, which shapes his understanding of people and public affairs. Contact him at adeniyidamilola2@gmail.com.