Engagement to Strengthen Grassroots Participation and Inclusive Development in the FCT Chiefdoms
By Theophilus Noah Baba
The Original Inhabitants Development Association (OIDA) has officially launched a sensitization tour across the 17 chiefdoms of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to educate and mobilize natives on democratic participation, constitutional rights, and governance issues affecting the indigenous people of Abuja.
The tour, which commenced today at Esu of Bwari palace of Bwari Chiefdom, aims to raise awareness about key concerns, including the need for a second-tier government in the FCT, land ownership rights, and the establishment of the Abuja Original Inhabitants Development Commission (AOIDC).
During the tour’s opening session, OIDA President, Pastor Danladi Jeji, emphasized the critical need for the original inhabitants of the FCT to actively participate in political processes at all levels. He urged community members to engage in various political parties, stressing that having diverse political representation within every community would strengthen their collective voice in national discourse.
“No community should align with just one party. Every political party must have a representative in every community. No matter how insignificant a party may seem, time will reveal its relevance,” Jeji stated.
According to the OIDA President, increased political engagement will bolster the struggle for a just and equitable Federal Capital Territory, ensuring that the rights and interests of its indigenous people are recognized and protected.
For years, OIDA has remained steadfast in its advocacy for the full emancipation of the FCT natives, pushing for legislative and policy changes that would grant them a status comparable to other Nigerians who reside in recognized states. The association has consistently called for the creation of a state-like structure that would allow the original inhabitants to enjoy the same rights and privileges as citizens in the 36 states of Nigeria.
“We have forsaken frivolous pursuits to maintain a principled stand on securing justice for our people. Our goal is to ensure that one day, the FCT natives will be on equal footing with other Nigerians in terms of governance and resource allocation,” Jeji reiterated.
Following the launch in Bwari Chiefdom, the sensitization tour will continue on February 4, 2025, covering Gwargwada, Rubuchi, and Abaji Chiefdoms. Subsequent visits scheduled to cover all 17 chiefdoms is below, ensuring that the message reaches every indigenous community in the FCT.
The tour is expected to feature discussions, interactive sessions, and legal enlightenment programs aimed at empowering the original inhabitants with the knowledge required to engage constructively in Nigeria’s democratic and governance structures.
As the movement gains momentum, stakeholders and community leaders are encouraged to actively participate and collaborate in advancing the cause of the indigenous people of the Federal Capital Territory.
Today: Bwari Chiefdom Esu Bwari and Sarki Bwari
(3) 11/2/2025
Yaba
Wakwo
Gumuni
(4) 15/2/2025
Kwali
Pai.
Gwagwalada
(5) 18/2/2025
Zuba
Jiwa
Garki
(6) 20/2/2025
1
Karshi
Karu
Kuje
OIDA HERITAGE DAY
VENUE: kubwa.
Date: 1 /3/2025
Cost:- Ten Million (10) Naira only.
OIDA BANK ACCOUNT
GTB 0023701042
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