Comrade Nehemiah Zaka faults the Senator’s “FCT Is for All” statement, insisting that inclusiveness must not be used to undermine the rights, identity and legitimate aspirations of the FCT’s indigenous communities.
Senator Ireti Kingibe has once again raised questions about her commitment to the interests and aspirations of the indigenous people of the Federal Capital Territory.
Her latest statement that the FCT belongs to all Nigerians may sound diplomatic, but it does little to address the concerns of the original inhabitants, who continue to demand recognition, inclusion and respect for their ancestral heritage.
It is unfortunate that, instead of addressing the concerns of the indigenous communities she represents, the Senator appears more interested in making statements that deepen existing divisions.
The FCT is home to both indigenous people and residents from across Nigeria. However, inclusiveness must not become an excuse to disregard the rights, identity and legitimate aspirations of the original inhabitants.
Beyond the rhetoric, what exactly has Senator Ireti Kingibe achieved for the people of the FCT?
The indigenous people and residents who voted for her deserve to see the dividends of representation. They deserve effective legislation, meaningful constituency projects and tangible improvements in their lives.
Many residents are still asking what the Senator has done for them. What significant bills has she sponsored? What projects has she facilitated for our satellite towns and communities? What practical steps has she taken to address the challenges facing her constituents?
The people of the FCT elected her with the hope of experiencing positive change. They deserve more than social media exchanges, political disagreements and divisive statements.
Senator Ireti Kingibe, the people need representation, not rhetoric. They need development, not division.
The FCT is home to all Nigerians, but that must never be used to silence its indigenous people or diminish their legitimate rights and aspirations.
The land on which the Federal Capital Territory stands is the ancestral home of its indigenous communities. Nigeria, as a nation, is grateful for the sacrifice of these communities in making their ancestral homeland available for the establishment of the nation’s capital.
Their rights, dignity and interests must therefore be respected and protected.
The people will ultimately judge Senator Ireti Kingibe’s leadership by her record, not by her social media statements. At the next election, they will have the opportunity to decide whether she deserves another mandate.
Comrade Nehemiah Zaka
FCT APC Youth Leader
