Only the people of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, have the power to determine their elected representatives according to Senator Ireti Kingibe.
Firing back on Thursday at the FCT minister Nyesom Woke who.had said she would lose her reelection bid, Kingibe who represents the FVT in the red chamber, and is seeking return,said she would not be intimidated by insults, threats or political pressure.
She said in a post on her X handle: “I have never been one to be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure, and I will not start now.”
She said her duty as a senator is to ask questions, demand accountability and defend democratic principles, adding that questioning public borrowing and use of public funds should not be seen as disrespect but as legislative responsibility.
On the loans obtained by the FCT Administration, she challenged Wike to produce evidence of Senate approval.
“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.
The senator said 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.
Kingibe rejected claims that Wike could decide her fate in the 2027 elections.
“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.
She also condemned attempts to intimidate women in public office, saying women who choose to serve must not be expected to remain silent because they ask difficult questions.
“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.
Kingibe vowed to continue scrutinising government activities and speaking for 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, 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 said.
Wike had earlier said Kingibe would not return to the Senate, calling her illiterate.
