By John Umeh
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that Senator Ireti Kingibe will not secure re-election in the 2027 general elections, citing what he described as her lack of visible achievements while representing the territory.
Wike made the remarks during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, where he openly challenged the senator’s record in office. According to him, his stance was not new, as he had expressed similar doubts about her political future over a year ago.
“I made it clear long ago that Senator Ireti would not return to the Senate. People may not like hearing the truth, but facts remain facts. Let her point to a single project she has executed,” Wike said.
Kingibe, who was elected in 2023 under the platform of the Labour Party, currently represents the Federal Capital Territory in the National Assembly. However, Wike argued that her presence and impact have not been felt across key communities, especially in the satellite towns where a large portion of the electorate resides.
He alleged that the senator has not maintained strong engagement with residents in those areas, suggesting that such disconnect could weaken her chances in future elections.
The FCT minister’s latest comments come amid rising tensions between both political figures. Kingibe had recently accused Wike of failing to respond to her official communications regarding security concerns and other pressing issues affecting residents of the capital. She also raised concerns about ongoing water shortages and broader welfare challenges within the territory.
Responding to separate criticisms over his presence during the recent FCT area council elections, Wike defended his actions, insisting that his role as the territory’s chief security authority justified his involvement in monitoring the process.
He explained that his visits to multiple polling units were purely for oversight and security purposes, not to influence the outcome.
“As the person responsible for security in the FCT, I have every right to observe developments during elections. I was not a candidate, and I did not campaign for any political party,” he said.
Wike further dismissed allegations that his presence affected the integrity of the polls, maintaining that observing electoral activities is part of ensuring peace and order across the territory.
The exchange highlights ongoing political friction in the FCT as political actors begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections, with debates over performance, leadership, and public accountability already shaping the conversation.
