By Onyeanya Immaculata
A coalition of indigenous groups and residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to begin preparations for a governorship election in Abuja ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The demand was made on Tuesday in Abuja at a press briefing organised by the FCT Senior Citizens Forum, which cited a pending court ruling that could elevate the FCT’s political status and grant residents full democratic rights, including the election of a governor.
Speaking at the briefing, the forum’s coordinator, Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, said FCT residents have been denied the right to elect their chief executive despite participating in presidential elections, describing the situation as a democratic imbalance.
The group also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider appointing the current FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, as an interim administrator if a transition process begins, to ensure continuity of governance.
The forum further expressed concern over alleged forced displacements in parts of the FCT and called for inclusive governance and equal treatment of all residents.
It said it would continue to mobilise support to advance democratic governance in the nation’s capital.
