…Says Funds Targeted At Payment Of Teachers’ Salary

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday defended his decision to withhold 10 per cent of the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) meant for the six Area Councils.

Wike said that since the Council Chairmen have constantly failed in their responsibility of paying teachers, he had to intervene to prevent a recurrence of strike actions that were almost grounding the education system.

Speaking during a live media parley with journalists in Abuja, the Minister noted that those criticising his decision are ignorant of the policies and implementation of his administration.

He said, “Nobody is complaining because those affected understand what is going on. We are collecting 10 per cent for a defined period to solve a problem that has kept our children at home,” he said.

The minister explained that the funds are being channelled directly towards clearing outstanding entitlements owed to teachers, particularly at the primary school level, where salary arrears and poor welfare conditions have triggered repeated industrial actions.

“Our children have been at home because teachers are not paid. That is unacceptable. We have to step in and ensure that these obligations are met,” he added.

Wike stressed that the arrangement includes structured monthly payments aimed at settling accumulated liabilities, noting that the FCT Administration would not allow the situation to deteriorate further.

“We are paying a fixed amount every month until the arrears are cleared. If we return that money without solving the problem, the strikes will continue. We will not allow that,” he said.

He rejected claims that the deductions would undermine infrastructure development or deprive contractors of funds, arguing that human capital development must take priority.

“What is the use of building infrastructure when children are not in school? Education is critical, and we must fix it first,” Wike stated.

The minister also insisted that area councils lacked the capacity to independently resolve the crisis, necessitating intervention from the FCT Administration.

“Some of these councils cannot handle the burden. That is why we stepped in. The goal is simply to get the teachers back to the classrooms and stabilise the system,” he said.

Wike reaffirmed that the measure is temporary and targeted, assuring residents that the administration remains committed to balancing infrastructure development with social services.

“This is not forever. It is a solution to a specific problem, and once it is resolved, normal processes will continue,” he added.