Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has demanded an apology from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike following comments threatening to unseat her in the 2027 elections.
The call for an apology comes amid ongoing tensions between the two politicians.
Kingibe, who has had a contentious relationship with Wike since both assumed office, expressed her dissatisfaction with Wike’s remarks made during the flag-off of the Mabushi Bus Terminal construction in Abuja on July 1.
Wike had criticized Kingibe’s performance, stating, “You said there are no schools and hospitals. You, as a legislator, what have you done? How many bills have you sponsored for us to improve our education and health sectors? I challenge that legislator. If you are very popular, in 2027, come and run under Abuja; we will fail you.”
In response, Kingibe took offense, asserting that Wike’s comments were disrespectful and unwarranted.
Speaking on Channels Television’s ‘Political Paradigm’, she remarked, “He doesn’t obviously understand the concept of the FCT. If he did, it is nothing personal. He says ‘I don’t want to be her friend.’ How does governance translate into friendship?”
Kingibe emphasized the need for courtesy and respect, saying, “I’m actually willing to do everything to work with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory as long as he apologises first for saying I should go and hang on a transformer.”
She added, “With all due respect, I am so much older than him. Even courtesy demands he should speak to me like that.”
The feud between the senator and the minister has been marked by mutual criticism.
Wike’s remarks followed accusations from Kingibe that he had been ignoring her calls and not considering the interests of FCT residents.
Additionally, Kingibe has accused Wike of sidelining her, partly due to her defeat of his ally, Philip Aduda, in the 2023 elections.
Wike, on his part, has attributed the conflict to Kingibe’s frustration over not being appointed as the chairperson of the Senate Committee on the FCT.
Kingibe has stated that while she is open to collaboration with Wike, it is contingent upon a formal apology.
“Once he does that, it is all over. We can start afresh but until then, everybody stays in your lane,” she declared.