The House of Representatives has called for sanctions against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and six Area Council Chairmen for their insubordination and disregard for the House. Rep. Ikonne Ifeanyi of the House Committee on FCT Area Council and Ancillary raised this issue during a committee meeting in Abuja, stating that the Minister and the council chairmen’s refusal to appear before the House shows disrespect and lack of regard for the institution.
Rep. Ifeanyi criticized the Minister and the council chairmen for their arrogance and suggested that the House should not approve any requests from them until they show respect and honor the House’s invitations. He even proposed bringing the issue to the floor of the House to demand an explanation from those involved and suggested recommending Wike’s removal as FCT Minister if the situation does not improve.
Rep. Fredrick Agbedi, the chairman of the committee, expressed that the Minister and the council chairmen’s actions breach their constitutional responsibilities and undermine the committee’s oversight functions, which are crucial for ensuring accountability and good governance. Agbedi pointed out that despite receiving substantial monthly allocations, the six area council chairmen had not initiated, completed, or commissioned any significant projects.
Rep. Adesola Adebayo emphasized that the House of Representatives has the authority to oversee the activities of the council areas and that the council chairmen’s refusal to appear is an affront to the House. He suggested applying maximum pressure to ensure accountability.
The committee members discussed the need for the FCT Minister and the council chairmen to show up as requested, with some members, like Rep. Nurudeen Abbas, suggesting giving them one last chance to comply before taking further action. Rep. Sada Soli proposed breaking into a closed session to discuss the matter further.
The committee aims to ensure that the FCT Minister and the council chairmen fulfill their obligations and respect the legislative process.