As the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) gears up for its upcoming local council elections, political tensions have escalated following a bold statement by Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the National Assembly. In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, Senator Kingibe declared that the people of Abuja will use the ballot box to send a clear message to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike: “The people will show him who owns the FCT during the council polls.”
Senator Kingibe criticized Minister Wike’s approach to governance, alleging that he has failed to understand and address the needs of FCT residents. “The truth is that the people of the FCT resent Wike,” she said. “They are not happy with his attitude and his failure to meet their needs.” She emphasized that the elections would serve as a referendum on his performance, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, public safety, and youth engagement.
Kingibe contrasted her own grassroots efforts with Wike’s administration, citing her initiatives to provide lighting in underserved communities and respond to local security concerns. “Where I can put one light, the minister can put a thousand,” she noted, suggesting that the minister’s failure to act reflects a disconnect from the realities faced by residents.
Meanwhile, Minister Wike has defended his record, pointing to a series of completed infrastructure projects—including roads, schools, and bus terminals—as evidence of his commitment to development. He recently urged his allies to use these achievements as campaign tools, stating, “The result is the rigging by what we have shown. So, not when you fail, you say you were rigged. Look at the rigging—the project is the rigging.”
With both sides staking their reputations on the outcome of the council elections, the political landscape in Abuja is charged with anticipation. The polls are expected to reflect not only party loyalties but also the broader sentiments of FCT residents regarding leadership, representation, and accountability.