Abuja Stakeholders Demand Inclusive Governance For Original Inhabitants

Following the peaceful conclusion of the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils elections, prominent stakeholders in the nation’s capital have called on the newly elected leaders to prioritise the rights and development of the FCT’s original inhabitants.

The president of the Abuja Original Inhabitants Youth Empowerment Organisation (AOIYEO), Commandant Isaac David, was among the stakeholders who made the call at a town hall meeting in Abuja yesterday.

The gathering brought together community leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to discuss the promotion and protection of indigenous rights.

David described the meeting as a reaffirmation of their collective commitment to justice, inclusion, and sustainable development for the indigenous communities of the FCT.

He noted that while the original inhabitants have made significant sacrifices in the interest of national unity for decades, the need to amplify their voices remains urgent.

“True development is not only measured by infrastructure and urban expansion, but also by how well the rights, identities, and livelihoods of indigenous populations are protected,” he said.

He commended the recent Area Councils Elections, describing the peaceful conduct and active citizen participation as a sign of growing democratic maturity within the communities. However, the president stressed that participation alone is not enough.

“Beyond participation, there is a need to ensure that the outcomes of these elections translate into inclusive governance,” David stated.

He urged elected leaders to prioritise the needs of original inhabitants, specifically calling for action on land rights, political representation, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.

“We call on elected leaders across the Area Councils to prioritise the needs of original inhabitants, especially in areas of land rights, political representation, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment,” he said.

The AOIYEO president reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening the voices of indigenous youth through advocacy and civic engagement.

He urged all stakeholders to move beyond conversations to commitments, building bridges between the government, civil society, and communities.

“Together, we can create a future where development and inclusion go hand in hand,” he added.