Senator Ireti Kingibe, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, has voiced concerns over being sidelined in the Senate concerning issues related to her constituency, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). As the highest elected official representing over four million people in the nation’s capital, Senator Kingibe expressed her frustration during a Senate session in Abuja.
Senator Kingibe’s concerns were raised under Orders 10 and 11 of the Senate Standing Order. She highlighted that she has not been included in the decision-making processes and discussions regarding the FCT, particularly with respect to the 2024 FCT Statutory Supplementary Appropriation bill. This budget, amounting to N98.5 billion, was presented without her knowledge or involvement.
Addressing the Senate, Senator Kingibe said, “Mr. President, I am the highest elected person in the FCT with over four million people. I am not usually carried along in the issues that pertain to the FCT, especially the matters of budget. The FCT supplementary budget is presented today but I am not even aware of the whole procedure, I was not invited to any meeting where the budget was discussed.”
Her statement underscored the lack of communication and inclusion she has experienced, which she believes undermines her role and the interests of her constituents. Kingibe’s remarks were aimed at highlighting the need for transparency and involvement of elected representatives in key decisions affecting their constituencies.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio responded to her concerns by noting that she should have formally raised the issue through a motion, in accordance with the Senate Standing Orders she referenced. Akpabio’s interruption suggested procedural oversight on Kingibe’s part, implying that her concerns might have been addressed differently if presented through the correct legislative process.
The Senate resolved that Senator Kingibe would present her complaint as a motion on the next legislative day. This decision indicates a recognition of her concerns and an agreement to formally address the issue through the proper legislative channels.
Senator Kingibe’s situation highlights a broader issue within legislative processes, where elected officials sometimes feel excluded from critical discussions affecting their constituencies. The lack of inclusion not only undermines the representative’s role but also potentially overlooks the needs and perspectives of the people they represent.
Kingibe’s call for inclusion is a reminder of the importance of transparent and participatory governance. For a functioning democracy, it is essential that all elected officials, especially those representing significant constituencies, are kept informed and involved in legislative processes. This ensures that the voices of their constituents are adequately represented and that decisions are made with comprehensive input from all relevant stakeholders.
As the situation develops, it will be crucial for the Senate to address Kingibe’s concerns effectively. Ensuring that she is included in future discussions and decisions related to the FCT will not only rectify her current grievances but also set a precedent for greater inclusivity and transparency in legislative processes.
Senator Ireti Kingibe’s plea for involvement in FCT matters sheds light on the need for better communication and inclusivity within the Senate. Her commitment to representing her constituents’ interests calls for a more collaborative approach to governance, where elected officials are integral to the decision-making processes that affect their constituencies. As the Senate prepares to address her motion, there is hope for a more inclusive and transparent legislative process moving forward.
