Senator Ireti Kingibe demands an apology from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike following his threats to unseat her in the 2027 elections. Their strained relationship has led to public disputes, with Kingibe calling for respectful dialogue to move forward.
Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for an apology from Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister, following Wike’s recent threats to unseat her in the 2027 elections. Their strained relationship has been marked by public disputes and mutual criticism.
Wike, during a July 1st event at the Mabushi Bus Terminal in Abuja, questioned Kingibe's legislative contributions and suggested she would not be re-elected. “If you are very popular, in 2027, come and run under Abuja; we will fail you,” Wike said, criticizing her performance in office.
Kingibe responded, stating that Wike’s comments were disrespectful and inappropriate. She emphasized that, despite their differences, she is open to collaborating with Wike if he issues an apology. “He doesn’t understand the concept of courtesy. It’s nothing personal, but he should speak to me with respect,” Kingibe said in an interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm. She expressed willingness to move forward if Wike acknowledges his remarks and apologizes.
The senator, who won her seat in 2023 by defeating Wike’s ally Philip Aduda, has been vocal about feeling sidelined by the FCT Minister. She has also accused Wike of ignoring her attempts to address issues affecting the capital city. The ongoing feud highlights the broader tensions within Nigerian politics, particularly regarding representation and respect among political figures.