By Stanley Onyekwere
In a significant backlash against President Bola Tinubu’s recent nomination of Solomon Adodo from Benue State to represent the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the North Central Development Commission, native stakeholders are voicing their discontent, arguing that such a choice jeopardises the interests and representation of FCT.
Adodo’s nomination has stirred controversy, with critics asserting that he lacks the deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by FCT residents.
During a press briefing held on Friday, Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, a prominent leader of the FCT Senior Citizens Forum, articulated the concerns of the residents and natives, urging the President to consider a more suitable local candidate.
“The appointment of an outsider does not only disregard the rich pool of eligible personalities within the FCT but also raises questions about the inclusivity of our governance structure.
“We do not see how someone from Benue can accurately represent the interests of the residents of this city, particularly when addressing pressing issues such as housing, infrastructure, and social welfare,” he stated.
Dara pointedly noted that the FCT is not merely a community that can be represented by anyone picked from outside.
“This is the nation’s capital, a melting pot of diverse cultures and a center of governance. It is, therefore, unacceptable to nominate someone without a genuine connection to the people or a clear comprehension of their needs.
“This is not about personal agendas, but about genuine representation for the people who reside here”, he said.
The FCT has historically been treated as the center of Nigeria’s political activities, but lately, residents have expressed concerns that their voices are often undermined in important decisions affecting their lives.
“It is essential for the President to engage with major stakeholders in the FCT before finalizing such important appointments. This will ensure that those who have a genuine understanding of the challenges faced by citizens are given priority in representing us,” he explained.
He said that the nomination should reflect the holistic interests of the diverse communities and major residents within the FCT.
“There are many prominent and eligible individuals from the FCT who have devoted years to understanding the plights of our people. Why can’t we have someone who possesses a chronological history with the dynamics of our community?” he asked.
In a bid to foster dialogue, Elder Dara emphasised the need for transparency and consultation in the appointment process.
“Sensitive positions such as this should not be dictated by mere party politics or external considerations.
“We hold that there should be a more systematic approach where stakeholders can be consulted, and the most qualified individuals considered for such designations.
“This uproar is not just a matter of representation; it speaks to a larger issue of how Nigeria’s governance is perceived in relation to the voices of its citizens”, he said.
Dara concluded the briefing with a call to action, urging President Tinubu to reconsider his choice and appoint someone with a firm grasp of the realities faced by the FCT’s inhabitants.
“We are a united front in this call. Our request is simple but profound—consider individuals who have a real stake in our community. Someone who understands and can speak for us in our own language”, he stated.
He said that with the looming challenges facing the FCT, from escalated housing deficits to infrastructure decay, marginalisation of the natives, among other things, the residents are clamoring for representation that truly reflects their needs and aspirations.
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