The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Heebah Kingibe, has criticised the recent imposition of a curfew across the territory by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, describing the action as undemocratic and lacking due consultation.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Matilda Duncan, in which the senator said the decision to enforce a sweeping restriction on residents without broad stakeholder engagement raises serious constitutional and governance concerns.
“The people of the FCT are not subjects under a dictatorship. They are citizens of a democratic republic, Any restriction on their movement and livelihoods must be justified by compelling evidence, subjected to scrutiny, and implemented with transparency.” Kingibe said.
While acknowledging the need to maintain public order, the senator stressed that security considerations must not become a blanket justification for executive overreach.
“Curfews are warranted only when there are serious security breaches. At present, there are none. This is an Area Council election, and such a measure must be proportionate to the threat level,” she stated.
Kingibe also warned of the economic and diplomatic consequences of the directive, noting that small businesses, daily wage earners and families who rely on daily income could face significant hardship.
“This decision risks disrupting livelihoods, previously scheduled weddings and public functions, and official engagements, “International visitors, including ECOWAS Parliamentarians expected for a 10-day extraordinary meeting, may also be affected,” She said.
She further emphasised the need for consultation and adherence to due process in decisions of such magnitude.
“Decisions that affect the entire territory cannot be taken without cause, consultation with stakeholders, and respect for democratic norms,” The Minister must remember he is not the first to administer this territory, and this is not the first election conducted here,” Kingibe added.
The senator called for an immediate review and suspension of the curfew.
“The rights, freedoms, and economic wellbeing of the people of the FCT must never be compromised by arbitrary or draconian executive action,” she said.