Stakeholders and residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have rejected the nomination of Solomon Adodo from Benue State as the FCT representative on the board of the proposed North Central Development Commission.
The nomination, made by President Bola Tinubu, has sparked outrage among native communities, who argued that the choice undermines the principles of equity, inclusion, and effective representation for the FCT.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, leader of the FCT Senior Citizens Forum, described Adodo’s nomination as both inappropriate and dismissive of the rights and aspirations of indigenous residents.
“The appointment of an outsider not only disregards 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 said.
Dara pointedly noted that the FCT is not merely a community that could be represented by anyone picked from outside.
“This is the nation’s capital, a melting pot of diverse cultures and a centre 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 agenda but about genuine representation for the people who reside here.
“The FCT has historically been treated as the centre 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 finalising such an important appointment. 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 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, 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 urged 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.
