Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly, has issued a bold message to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike — urging him to brace for a clear political statement from residents during the upcoming local government elections.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, the outspoken lawmaker made it clear that many people in the FCT feel ignored and misunderstood under Wike’s leadership. According to her, the coming elections—slated for early 2026—will serve as a referendum on the Minister’s performance and approach to governance.
“Local government elections are coming early next year,” she began. “That is when the people of the FCT show Ministers: ‘we like you or we do not like you.’”
She didn’t mince words as she described the mood on the ground: “Nobody controls the FCT. People who have lived here for a long time know that the residents of the capital have independent minds.”
Senator Kingibe, who has long championed the rights of indigenous Abuja communities and ordinary residents, pointed to what she sees as a long-standing issue: ministers coming into office and treating locals with disregard. “The one thing that unites us in the FCT,” she said pointedly, “is our resentment of the Minister.”
Her remarks reflect a deeper frustration among Abuja’s original inhabitants and settlers who often feel sidelined in matters of governance and development. While Wike has been praised in some quarters for his infrastructural push in Abuja, others accuse him of bulldozing through communities—both literally and politically—without listening.
“This isn’t just about development,” Kingibe stressed. “It’s about being treated with respect.”
Her statement has sparked conversations about whether Wike’s strongman style, once effective in Rivers politics, will survive the political temperature of Abuja—a territory known for its diversity, democratic-minded youth, and deep-rooted indigenous communities.
As 2026 draws closer, one thing is clear: FCT residents are preparing to speak with their votes, and Senator Kingibe believes their message will be loud and unambiguous.
