Tension erupts in senate as prominent senator protests over FCT demolitions

Drama unfolded in the Senate on Thursday as Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), exited the chamber in protest after being denied the chance to present a motion addressing ongoing demolitions in Abuja.

The plenary session began smoothly until Senator Kingibe raised a point of order, urging the Senate to address the hardship caused by demolitions allegedly sanctioned by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. She emphasized that these actions had inflicted severe property losses on residents.

However, Senate President Godswill Akpabio interrupted her, stating that the motion was not listed on the day’s order paper, a prerequisite under Senate rules. Senator Kingibe countered, explaining she had submitted the motion to the Committee on Rules and Business. The committee’s chairman, Titus Zam, refuted her claim, saying no such submission was received.

Visibly frustrated, Senator Kingibe gathered her belongings and left the chamber. Her departure prompted interventions from fellow senators, including Asuquo Ekpenyong and Oyelola Ashiru, who urged the Senate President to reconsider. Senators Augustine Akobondu and Idiat Adebule were also sent to convince Senator Kingibe to return.

Upon her return, Senate President Akpabio requested an apology for her earlier walkout. While hesitant at first, Senator Kingibe eventually apologized. She then presented her motion, arguing that the demolitions lacked due process and had caused immense losses for affected residents.

The Senate ultimately approved her motion, forming an eight-member ad hoc committee to engage with the FCT administration on the matter. Additionally, the Senate directed the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to halt all demolitions, except those mandated by court orders, until the committee concludes its discussions.