By Erewunmi Peace

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has denied reports that his administration owes contractors the sum of ₦5.2 billion, insisting that the controversial contracts were irregularly awarded by corrupt civil servants without his approval.

Speaking in Abuja, Wike dismissed protests by some contractors who claimed the FCTA failed to pay for works such as refuse evacuation, road repairs, borehole drilling, and emergency projects. He maintained that no such contracts were issued under his leadership.

“These contracts were not awarded with my knowledge. I never approved them, and I will not pay for any job that did not follow due process,” the minister stated.

Wike explained that upon assuming office, he inherited over ₦10 billion in genuine liabilities from previous administrations and has since been clearing those debts systematically. He stressed that only properly approved contracts, backed by budgetary provisions, would be honored.

The minister accused corrupt civil servants of manipulating the system by awarding “phantom contracts” without authorization, warning that those responsible would be held accountable.

While some outlets reported the disputed figure as ₦5.8 billion, the FCTA insists that all verified contracts awarded before Wike took office are being reviewed and paid accordingly.

This development comes amid ongoing efforts to sanitize contract processes in the Federal Capital Territory and ensure transparency in public spending.