Campaign for Full Democratic Rights in Abuja Gains Momentum

The demand for full democratic rights in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has been renewed by a coalition of Abuja stakeholders. They are insisting that residents must elect a governor for the FCT in the 2027 general elections.

Background of the Demand

The FCT Senior Citizens Forum made this demand at a press briefing in Abuja, reviving the long-running debate over the political status of the Federal Capital Territory. According to the group, the current system of administration in Abuja has outlived its relevance and no longer reflects the democratic expectations of its residents.

The Need for a Governor

Addressing journalists at the event themed “Fulfilling the Democratic Status of Abuja,” coordinator of the Forum, Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, emphasized that the time had come for Abuja to determine its own chief executive through the ballot. He stated, “The demand for full statehood is not just a legal opinion; it is a necessary clarification of the constitutional future of the FCT. For far too long, citizens of Abuja have participated in presidential elections but have been denied the fundamental right to elect their own chief executive and legislative representatives. This democratic deficit must end now.”

Call to Action

Dara called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to begin internal preparations for a possible governorship poll in the FCT. He appealed directly to the electoral chief, saying, “As a distinguished academic and electoral umpire known for your integrity, Prof. Amupitan, we urge you to be prepared to set in motion the processes for a potential FCT governorship election. Voter registration, constituency delineation for a State House of Assembly, and election logistics planning should commence proactively.”

Ensuring Governance Continuity

The Forum also urged President Bola Tinubu to consider governance continuity should Abuja transition to a new administrative structure. They suggested that appointing the current Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, as a potential Interim Administrator of the territory could ensure stability during the transition period. This would allow ongoing projects to reach fruition while granting INEC the time necessary to prepare for a historic gubernatorial election, marking the end of political exclusion in Abuja.

Promoting Inclusiveness

Dara expressed concern over recent displacements affecting both indigenous communities and long-term residents, arguing that any future democratic arrangement must promote inclusiveness. He emphasized that all Nigerians residing in the FCT deserve equality and inclusion in governance and social management, stating, “Only through total inclusiveness can the federal government ensure harmony and justice.”

Conclusion

The agitation for a governor in Abuja reflects a broader national conversation about the territory’s governance model and the need to align it with the spirit of democratic participation. The message from the people of Abuja is unequivocal: the time for a governor of Abuja is now. The Forum pledged sustained mobilisation around the demand and urged relevant authorities to embrace what it described as an opportunity to strengthen democratic accountability.

FAQs

• Q: What is the main demand of the FCT Senior Citizens Forum?
  A: The main demand is for the residents of Abuja to elect a governor for the Federal Capital Territory in the 2027 general elections.
• Q: Why is the current system of administration in Abuja considered outdated?
  A: The current system has outlived its relevance and no longer reflects the democratic expectations of the territory’s residents.
• Q: Who did the Forum suggest as a potential Interim Administrator of the FCT?
  A: The Forum suggested the current Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, to ensure stability during a potential transition period.
• Q: What is the importance of inclusiveness in the future democratic arrangement of Abuja?
  A: Inclusiveness is crucial to ensure equality and justice for all Nigerians residing in the FCT, promoting harmony and reducing cries of marginalization.

Source: theabujainquirer.com