Senator Ireti Kingibe has reacted to recent comments by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, insisting that she will not be intimidated or pressured into abandoning her position on issues affecting the nation’s capital.
The senator maintained that her responsibilities as a lawmaker include questioning government decisions, demanding accountability and scrutinising the use of public funds.
According to Naija News, Kingibe made her position known on Thursday in a social media post responding to remarks attributed to Wike.
She argued that questioning government policies and requesting explanations about public spending should not be interpreted as disrespect, stressing that such actions fall within the constitutional responsibilities of her office.
Ireti Kingibe Challenges Wike Over FCT Loans
The senator also revisited the controversy surrounding loans obtained by the FCT Administration, challenging Wike to present official Senate records confirming that the National Assembly approved the borrowings.
Kingibe said she was not aware of any such approval being brought before the Senate, while clarifying that she could not speak on behalf of the House of Representatives.
Her demand places renewed attention on the approval process for public borrowing and the need for transparency in government financial decisions.
Senator Insists No Public Official Is Above Scrutiny
Kingibe further stated that ministers and other government officials must remain subject to the law and public accountability, regardless of their positions or political influence.
Responding to the remarks attributed to Wike, she said:
“I have never been one to be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure, and I will not start now. As for not getting approval for the loans, I dare the FCT Minister to show the people of the FCT, and all who have asked, the Votes and Proceedings of the day the approval was given.”
She continued:
“I cannot speak for the House of Representatives but I know that it was NEVER brought before the Senate. No Minister, no matter how powerful, is above the law. No public office holder is above scrutiny.”
Kingibe Speaks on FCT Leadership and 2027 Election
The senator also addressed the issue of political influence over the future leadership of the Federal Capital Territory, arguing that the authority to choose elected representatives belongs to the people.
She rejected the idea that any individual could determine who residents of the FCT would elect in 2027 through personal declarations.
Kingibe also highlighted the importance of women in public office being able to ask difficult questions and defend their principles without facing pressure to remain silent.
She said:
“Women who choose to serve in public office must not be expected to remain silent simply because they ask difficult questions or refuse to compromise their principles.”
‘I Will Continue to Speak for the People of the FCT’
Concluding her statement, Kingibe said she would remain focused on her responsibilities as a senator and continue to raise concerns over issues affecting the Federal Capital Territory.
She maintained that personal attacks would not distract her from scrutinising government decisions or advocating for the interests of the people she represents.
“I will not be distracted by personal attacks. I will continue to speak when the interest of the FCT demands it, scrutinise matters that require scrutiny, and stand firmly for the people I represent,” she stated.
The senator added that she entered public service to serve rather than be intimidated, expressing confidence that the people of the FCT would determine the outcome of the 2027 election.
