· Want alternative administrative system
· Say FCT ministers are ‘autocrats’
By Sarah NEGEDU
Original inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, are demanding an alternative governance structure for the FCT, as they claim the existing governance framework lacks democratic attribute.
This request is coming from various community leaders and natives who expressed growing concerns over what they term “unchecked powers” wielded by FCT ministers, whom they describe as “emperors in disguise.”
They insist that the current structure is skewed in favour of FCT ministers, who are unelected, but allowed to preside over decision making processes on behalf of the people.
They, therefore, called on the federal government to establish a democratic governance structure that would allow for inputs from residents, while also ensuring proper checks and balances for officials operating in the territory.
The call for this change was made during a press briefing organised by stakeholders, including youth groups, women associations, and grassroots organisations, convened to voice their grievances.
One of the major stakeholders, who spoke on behalf of the natives, Elder Danjuma Dara, maintained that the existing governance framework in the FCT undermines the principles of accountability and transparency.
“As a territory administered directly by the federal government, Abuja does not have an elective representation. This results in decisions being made without the input or consideration of the people directly affected by those decisions.
“We, the people of Abuja, have a right to voice our opinions in matters that affect our lives, yet we find ourselves sidelined in the decision-making process. FCT ministers operate with little oversight, leading to widespread impunity in the exercise of their powers.
“They act with the authority of emperors, making decisions that impact our lives without accountability. This is no longer acceptable,” he said.
Dara highlighted specific concerns regarding land allocations, environmental regulations, and urban development plans that seem to benefit a select few while neglecting the broader interests of the community.
“We are living in a democracy, yet we are treated as if we are under an autocracy. This must change. We believe that the absence of a structured, democratic approach allows for these corrupt practices to thrive,” he said.
He recounted how his efforts through media campaigns to engage with FCT officials regarding pressing issues have been met with indifference.
“Our people have written letters, staged peaceful protests, and held community forums, yet our voices remain unheard. If this unresolved situation continues, we will have to take more drastic actions,” he warned.
He said that if the federal government fails to implement a democratic structure for the FCT, the natives will have no option but to mobilize residents and invoke the power of their ancestors.
“We have deep-rooted traditions and ancestral powers. If those in positions of authority continue to abuse their powers, we will call on our ancestors to take action against families committing acts of impunity in our territory,” he said
The natives also cautioned serving military and paramilitary to desist from engaging in enforcement functions leading to forceful demolition of properties owned by Nigerians.
“We, Abuja people accommodate visitors with genuine intent and we deal otherwise to those with opposite. FCDA management must learn how to do things right to avoid a crisis in future,” Dara said.
Clamour for mayor for Abuja
For long, residents of the territory have clamoured for an elected mayor that will be accountable to the people rather than a delegated authority of the president to the FCT minister.
In 2019, the House of Representatives considered a constitution alteration bill to change the administrative structure of the FCT.
The bill was sponsored by Dachung Bagos and sought to remove the President as the Chief Executive Officer of the FCT and replace him with an elected Mayor, who will administer the FCT as the Chief Executive.
Bagos’ bill proposed the deletion of sections 301 (a and c) and 302 and introducing the new part II into the constitution.
The bill was introduced to the House on November 5, 2019.
Also, in February 2024, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, gave the indication that the parliament will would focus on the creation of the office mayor for the Federal Capital Territory, amongst other items.
Abbas stated it at the inauguration the House Special Committee on Constitution Review.
But for now, it is still a long walk to realizing that.
