The political disagreement between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe escalated on Thursday as the lawmaker challenged the minister to publish evidence that the Senate approved loans obtained for the FCT.
Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the Senate, insisted that she would not be silenced by political pressure or personal attacks, saying her duty is to ensure transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
In a strongly worded statement, the senator said questioning public borrowing and government spending is a constitutional responsibility, not an act of hostility.
> “I have never been one to be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure, and I will not start now.
> “My responsibility as a Senator representing the people of the Federal Capital Territory is to ask questions, demand accountability, and defend the constitutional principles upon which our democracy stands. If I raise questions about public borrowing, public funds, or the conduct of government, it is not an act of disrespect; it is part of my duty as a legislator.”
Kingibe dismissed claims that the required legislative approval had been obtained for the loans, challenging the minister to make the official records public.
> “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. I cannot speak for the House of Representatives but I know that it was NEVER brought before the Senate. The President from whom the Minister derives his powers has always sought approval for ALL loans from the Senate.”
She argued that no government official should be exempt from public scrutiny, regardless of position or influence.
> “No Minister, no matter how powerful, is above the law. No public office holder is above scrutiny. And no individual has the authority to decide by personal declaration who the people of the FCT will elect in 2027. That decision belongs solely to the people.”
The senator also condemned what she described as attempts to intimidate women in public office, warning against efforts to silence female leaders who demand accountability.
> “I also want to make this very clear: 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.”
She reaffirmed her commitment to representing the interests of FCT residents and said criticism would not stop her from carrying out her constitutional duties.
> “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.
> “I did not enter public service to be intimidated. I entered it to serve.
> “The will of the people of the FCT will prevail on the day of the election.”
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