Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory has strongly responded to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, stating that she will not be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure. In a post on her verified social media account, Kingibe emphasized her role as a senator to ask questions, demand accountability, and uphold Nigeria's democratic principles. Her comments were in response to Wike's recent insults and warning that she would not win a Senate seat in 2027.
The political clash between Kingibe and Wike began when Kingibe accused Wike of taking out a loan for the FCT without Senate approval during a national TV interview. Kingibe challenged Wike to provide proof of the National Assembly's approval for the loan to the people of the FCT. Wike had called Kingibe illiterate and repeated his warning that she would not win a Senate seat in 2027.
Kingibe stated that she has never backed down from insults, threats, or political pressure and won't start now. As a senator, her job is to ask questions, seek accountability, and protect the constitutional values that support Nigeria's democracy. She emphasized that questioning public borrowing, public funds, or government actions is part of her duty as a lawmaker.
Kingibe dared Wike to show the people of the FCT and all who have asked for the Votes and Proceedings of the day the approval was given for the loan. She noted that she cannot speak for the House of Representatives but knows it was never brought before the Senate. The President, from whom Wike derives his powers, has always sought approval for all loans from the Senate.
Kingibe also emphasized that no minister, no matter how powerful, is above the law, and no public office holder is above scrutiny. She stated that attempts to intimidate, silence, or demean women in government are totally unacceptable. 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.
Kingibe made it clear that she will not be distracted by personal attacks and will continue to speak when the interest of the FCT demands it. She will scrutinize matters that require scrutiny and stand firmly for the people she represents. Kingibe emphasized that she did not enter public service to be intimidated but to serve.
Kingibe concluded by stating that the will of the people of the FCT will prevail on the day of the election. The decision on who will represent the FCT in 2027 belongs solely to the people, not to any individual. Kingibe's response to Wike has been seen as a strong stance against intimidation and a commitment to her duties as a senator.
Key points
- Senator Ireti Kingibe responds to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike's insults and threats.
- Kingibe emphasizes her role as a senator to ask questions and demand accountability.
- The political clash between Kingibe and Wike began over a loan taken out for the FCT without Senate approval.
