On FCT Matters Akpabio Intervened After Wike Sounded as If I Was Going to Harm Him – Kingibe Reveals Heated Phone Clash

A political disagreement between Senator Ireti Kingibe and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, escalated into a tense phone exchange that required the intervention of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, according to the lawmaker.

Speaking on the matter, Senator Kingibe disclosed that the conversation became so heated that Wike allegedly reacted as though he felt personally threatened, prompting Akpabio to step in to calm tensions. The development has added another layer to the growing political friction surrounding governance and administrative decisions in the FCT.

Dispute Over FCT Governance

Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory in the Senate, explained that the disagreement stemmed from issues relating to governance and administrative decisions affecting residents of Abuja. While she did not disclose every detail of the exchange, she indicated that the conversation became unexpectedly confrontational.

According to her account, the minister’s tone shifted during the phone call, leading her to conclude that he interpreted her position as hostile. “He sounded as if I was going to harm him,” she reportedly said, suggesting that the exchange went beyond routine political disagreement.

Kingibe maintained that her concerns were rooted in her constitutional duty to represent the interests of FCT residents. She emphasized that raising questions or offering criticism should not be misconstrued as a personal attack.

Akpabio’s Intervention

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, was said to have intervened to de-escalate the situation. His involvement, according to Kingibe, helped restore calm after the conversation became strained.

Although the precise circumstances that led to Akpabio’s intervention were not fully outlined, the episode highlights the delicate balance of power and communication between the executive arm of government and members of the legislature. It also underscores the intensity of political exchanges surrounding the administration of the FCT.

Observers note that such disputes, while not uncommon in political circles, can have broader implications for cooperation between public office holders. Constructive dialogue, they argue, remains essential for effective governance.

Broader Political Context

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has in recent months been at the center of several high-profile policy decisions and political debates. His tenure has been marked by strong rhetoric and decisive administrative actions, which have drawn both praise and criticism.

The reported clash with Kingibe comes amid ongoing scrutiny of policies affecting the capital territory, including movement restrictions, infrastructural reforms, and administrative directives. Political analysts suggest that tensions may continue if communication between stakeholders remains strained.

Despite the disagreement, there has been no indication of any formal breakdown in institutional collaboration. Both parties remain key figures in the political landscape, and observers expect that dialogue will continue within official channels.