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Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has asserted that she does not feel intimidated by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.

The senator emphasized that no single individual has control over electoral results in the territory.

During her appearance on Politics Today, a program on Channels Television, on Wednesday, Kingibe remarked that the voting behavior in the FCT has consistently been autonomous, highlighting that neither Wike nor any other political leader can dictate candidates for the electorate.

She stated that the residents of the FCT have always had the power to choose their leaders, affirming that her political prospects are not reliant on the minister's influence.

Kingibe further minimized the minister's significance in the 2027 elections, suggesting that Wike should concentrate on the ongoing local government elections and his other duties, expressing her belief that the FCT will not be his primary concern as the next general elections draw near.

She stated: “Let’s discuss my position. The reality is that from Obasanjo’s administration to the present, very few individuals can dictate how the people of the FCT vote. Minister Wike cannot ensure my victory, nor can he cause my defeat, just as he cannot impose anyone on the FCT. The FCT is not organized that way, so I am not intimidated by him at all.

“I transitioned to the ADC because it is where we, the candidates from the Labour Party seeking reelection in 2027, decided to go, including those aiming for local council elections from the Labour Party. Many of us encouraged them to join.

“A platform is essential. The ADC represents a crucial alternative to the Labour Party for those in opposition. That is what this is about. It is not centered on Minister Wike. He should first focus on the local government elections before discussing 2027. I believe that by 2027, the FCT will not be his priority, as he will have other responsibilities instead of worrying about who is elected in the FCT.”

What is Senator Kingibe's view on the influence of Minister Wike?

Senator Kingibe believes that Minister Wike does not have the power to control electoral outcomes in the FCT and that the residents will determine their leaders.

Why did Senator Kingibe move to the ADC?

She moved to the ADC as it was a collective decision among those from the Labour Party seeking reelection in 2027, providing a necessary platform for opposition.

What does Kingibe think about Wike's focus on the 2027 elections?

Kingibe suggests that Wike should prioritize local government elections and believes that the FCT will not be his main concern as the 2027 elections approach.