Kingibe dares Wike to publish senate loan approval, says she won’t be silenced

Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the Senate, has challenged the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, to provide documentary evidence that the Senate approved loans obtained for the territory, insisting that no such request was presented before the upper legislative chamber.

Kingibe also declared that she would not be intimidated by insults, threats or political pressure, stressing that her constitutional responsibility is to demand accountability and protect the interests of FCT residents.

In a statement on Thursday, the senator said asking questions about government borrowing, public spending and official conduct should not be seen as an attack on anyone but as part of her oversight responsibilities as a lawmaker.

“”I have never been one to be intimidated by insults, threats, or political pressure, and I will not start now.

“My responsibility as a Senator representing the people of the Federal Capital Territory is to ask questions, demand accountability, and defend the constitutional principles upon which our democracy stands. If I raise questions about public borrowing, public funds, or the conduct of government, it is not an act of disrespect; it is part of my duty as a legislator.”

The senator specifically challenged the FCT Minister to make public the legislative records showing where the National Assembly approved the loans.

“As for not getting approval for the loans, I dare the FCT Minister to show the people of the FCT, and all who have asked, the Votes and Proceedings of the day the approval was given. I cannot speak for the House of Representatives but I know that it was NEVER brought before the Senate. The President from whom the Minister derives his powers has always sought approval for ALL loans from the Senate.”

Kingibe maintained that every public office holder, regardless of status, must remain accountable under the law.

“No Minister, no matter how powerful, is above the law. No public office holder is above scrutiny. And no individual has the authority to decide by personal declaration who the people of the FCT will elect in 2027. That decision belongs solely to the people.”

She also condemned what she described as attempts to intimidate women serving in public office, saying female leaders should not be pressured into silence for carrying out their constitutional duties.

> “I also want to make this very clear: attempts to intimidate, silence, or demean women in government are totally unacceptable. Women who choose to serve in public office must not be expected to remain silent simply because they ask difficult questions or refuse to compromise their principles.”

Reaffirming her commitment to the people of the FCT, the senator said she would remain focused on legislative oversight despite criticisms and political attacks.

“I will not be distracted by personal attacks. I will continue to speak when the interest of the FCT demands it, scrutinise matters that require scrutiny, and stand firmly for the people I represent.

“I did not enter public service to be intimidated. I entered it to serve.

“The will of the people of the FCT will prevail on the day of the election.”

The latest statement comes amid growing political exchanges between Kingibe and the FCT Minister over governance, public spending and the administration of the Federal Capital Territory. The disagreement has drawn national attention as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum.

Under Nigeria’s Constitution, the National Assembly plays a key oversight role over the administration and finances of the Federal Capital Territory, while lawmakers are empowered to scrutinise government policies, spending and borrowing in the public interest.