A former member of the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Micah Yohanna Jiba, has ignited a firestorm of controversy by demanding the reversal of the proposed occupant of the FCT slot, Mr. Solomon Adodo, in the North Central Development Commission.
Hon. Jiba’s demand is driven by the fact that Mr. Adodo is not an indigene of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) but rather a native of Benue State.
Hon. Jiba alleged that the FCT has been deliberately marginalised in the nomination process. He pointed to the recent approval of the North Central Development Commission members, where not a single indigene of the FCT was nominated. Meanwhile, other states in the North Central zone received multiple nominations, while the FCT was glaringly excluded.
This, he believes, is a blatant case of marginalisation and exclusion.
Hon. Jiba emphasised that the FCT deserves representation by one of its own, citing the principle of federal character and inclusion.
He noted that the FCT is an integral part of the North Central zone and does not have anywhere else to go, making it essential that their interests are represented. He urged the authorities to consider the demand and ensure that the FCT is represented by one of its own.
The former lawmaker cited a previous instance where a nomination was reversed after agitation, hoping for a similar resolution in this matter.
According to Hon. Jiba, the authorities should prioritise the interests of the FCT and consider the demand.
Hon. Jiba’s demand is in line with Mr. President’s renewed hope agenda, which aims to carry everyone along, irrespective of their geopolitical zone.
The nomination of Mr. Adodo, he believes, goes against the spirit of inclusivity and federal character. He urged the authorities to prioritise the interests of the FCT and ensure that the territory is represented by one of its own.
The nomination of Mr. Adodo has significant implications for the representation of the FCT. If the nomination is not reversed, it could set a precedent for future nominations, further marginalising the FCT.
Hon. Jiba’s demand is a call to action for the authorities to prioritise the interests of the FCT.
The controversy surrounding the FCT slot nomination highlights the need for fairness and equity in representation.
Hon. Jiba’s demand for a reversal of the nomination is a call to action for the authorities to prioritise the interests of the FCT and ensure that the territory is represented by one of its own.
“The outcome of this matter will have significant implications for the representation of the FCT and the principle of federal character,” he added.
