FCT Senator, Ireti Heebah Kingibe, has fired back at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, daring him to provide evidence of approval for loans taken by the FCT Administration.
In a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, Kingibe said she would not be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure over her role in demanding accountability.
“I have never been one to be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure, and I will not start now,” the Senator declared.
Kingibe insisted that her responsibility as the Senator representing the FCT is to ask questions, demand accountability, and defend constitutional principles.
“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,” she said
The lawmaker challenged Wike to make public the Votes and Proceedings of the day the Senate allegedly approved the loans.
“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,” Kingibe stated.
She stressed that no public office holder is above scrutiny.
“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,” she said.
Kingibe also condemned what she described as attempts to silence women in public office.
“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 added.
The Senator vowed not to be distracted by personal attacks.
“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,” she concluded
