FCT Minister Criticises Senator Over Constituency Performance
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has reiterated that Senator Ireti Kingibe is unlikely to return to the Senate in 2027, claiming she has failed to deliver projects for her constituents.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike linked his prediction to what he described as Kingibe’s absence from key communities and her inability to show tangible results during her current term.
Wike Challenges Senator on Projects
“I had said it more than one year ago, Senator Ireti, you won’t come back as a senator. That’s why you people don’t like people who tell you the truth. It’s bitter. Let her show one project,” Wike said.
Kingibe, elected in 2023 on the Labour Party platform to represent the FCT, has faced criticism from Wike for reportedly avoiding satellite towns, which he described as high-voter-turnout areas.
“She is not there. Go to the satellite towns where the real voters are. She is not there,” the minister added.
Wike had previously predicted in 2024 that Kingibe would not secure a second term. The renewed comments follow the senator’s accusations that the minister ignored her letters and complaints over worsening insecurity in the territory, as well as alleged shortcomings in water supply and social welfare.
Wike Defends Role in Recent FCT Elections
During the briefing, Wike also defended his presence at several polling units during the recent FCT Area Council elections, rejecting claims that he influenced outcomes.
“I’m the governor of FCT. For security, I have to find out what is going on. I don’t need to be told. I wasn’t a candidate in the election. As the chief security officer, I have the right to have the view of what was going on,” he said.
He added that he visited around ten polling units and dismissed allegations that his presence swayed voters.
“And how does it influence the election? I wasn’t on the ballot and I never said people should vote for any party,” Wike insisted.
