Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senator Ireti Kingibe made headlines on Thursday when she walked out of the Senate chamber in protest after being denied the opportunity to present a motion addressing the ongoing demolitions in Abuja.
Focus on Controversial Life Camp Estate Demolition
Kingibe’s motion sought to halt demolitions in the FCT, specifically targeting an estate in the Life Camp area owned by the late Colonel Paul Ogbebor. These demolitions have sparked public outrage, with many residents accusing the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) of acting without due process or consideration for the displaced families.
The demolitions are part of a larger urban renewal agenda under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who has pledged to rid the capital of illegal structures and restore the Abuja master plan. Critics argue that the policy disproportionately affects vulnerable residents, with little to no provision for relocation or compensation.
Procedural Block Sparks Protest
Despite Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s assurances that she could present the motion, Kingibe discovered it had been excluded from the order paper, which is a prerequisite for motions under Senate rules.
The Senate Committee on Rules and Business Chairman, Titus Zam, claimed the draft motion was never submitted to his office. However, Kingibe strongly refuted this, asserting she had fulfilled all requirements. Frustrated by the procedural block, Kingibe left the chamber in protest, packing her belongings as she exited.
Return, Apology, and Resolution
Following interventions from colleagues and directives from the Senate President, Kingibe returned to the chamber but was asked to apologise for her abrupt departure. While initially reluctant, she complied, allowing discussions on her motion to proceed.
In response, the Senate formed an eight-member ad hoc committee to engage the FCT administration and Minister Wike on the matter. The committee has been tasked with investigating the demolitions and presenting its findings. In the meantime, the Senate passed a resolution directing the FCDA to suspend all demolitions, except those ordered by the courts, until the committee concludes its work.
Kingibe’s Advocacy for Accountability
Senator Kingibe has been vocal in her opposition to the ongoing demolitions, stressing the need for a more humane approach. She argues that many affected residents are law-abiding citizens who deserve fair treatment. Her motion seeks to balance urban renewal efforts with the protection of fundamental human rights, advocating for transparent processes and adequate compensation for those affected.
Demolitions Under Scrutiny
The demolition drive in Abuja has been widely criticised for its heavy-handed execution. Reports of forceful evictions and destroyed homes have left many questioning the FCDA’s methods. While Minister Wike maintains that the demolitions are necessary to uphold the integrity of Abuja’s master plan, activists and community leaders insist that due process and empathy must guide such actions.
