‘Development Is Minister’s Job, Not Mine’, Senator Ireti Kingibe Speaks On FCT Projects

The Senator representing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly, Ireti Kingibe, has responded to criticisms regarding the pace of infrastructural development in the nation’s capital, clarifying that her role as a lawmaker does not directly involve execution of projects.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Tuesday evening, the lawmaker explained that her constitutional mandate is limited to lawmaking and oversight, and that the responsibility for physical development in the FCT lies squarely with the Minister of the FCT.

“I am only a Senator. I only make laws, and I am an opposition Senator who has to fight sometimes to be allowed to speak,” she said.

Senator Kingibe noted that her efforts to advocate for the FCT residents have often faced resistance within the Senate due to political dynamics. However, she added that mutual respect has grown between her and her colleagues with time.

“Situations have changed as they’ve gotten to know me, and I’ve gotten to know some of them,” she said. “I tend to be quite disruptive when they don’t allow me to speak, and I feel it is my right—and FCT needs it.”

While reaffirming her commitment to representing the interests of FCT residents, Kingibe emphasised that her powers were limited when executing capital projects or initiating infrastructural development.

“At the end of the day, I’m only one person. The minister is the person who is to bring development,” Senator Ireti Kingibe stated.