Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has informed FCT Minister Nyesom Wike that insults, threats, or political pressure cannot intimidate her, maintaining that no minister stands above the law.
Kingibe further asserted that Wike had no power to decide whether she would return to the Senate in 2027, stating that this choice rested with the people of the FCT.
She made this known on Thursday through a post on her X platform, replying to the minister’s recent remarks about her criticism of the FCT Administration and her political future.
“I have never been one to be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure, and I will not start now,” Kingibe said.
She explained that her duty as a senator was to pose questions, insist on accountability, and uphold the constitutional principles on which democracy was built.
In her view, asking questions about public borrowing, public funds, and government conduct should not be seen as disrespect but rather as part of her legislative duty.
Regarding the controversy surrounding loans taken by the FCT Administration, Kingibe dared Wike to provide the official record proving that the Senate authorized the borrowings.
“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,” she said.
Kingibe also declared that no public official was above scrutiny.
“No minister, no matter how powerful, is above the law. No public office holder is above scrutiny,” she said.
The lawmaker also rejected any suggestion that Wike could determine her political fate ahead of the 2027 election.
“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 further denounced what she characterized as efforts to intimidate, silence, or belittle women holding public office.
“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 said.
The lawmaker vowed to continue scrutinizing government activities and speaking on issues affecting residents of the FCT.
“I will not be distracted by personal attacks. I will continue to speak when the interest of the FCT demands it, scrutinize matters that require scrutiny, and stand firmly for the people I represent,” she said.
“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.”
