Today, a delegation of prominent indigenous upgraded chiefs From the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Joshua Chinedu Obika, the member representing Abuja North, and Hon. Abdulrahman Ajiya (Abayaro), the member representing Abuja South, at their National Assembly office. The purpose of the visit was to discuss matters of great importance to the original inhabitants and residents of the FCT.
The royal fathers present at the meeting included:
1. HRH Alh. Haruna Tanko Jibrin (Gomo of Kuje)
2. HRH Alh. Awwal Musa Ijakoro II (Sarkin Bwari)
3. HRH Alh. Ibrahim Usman Abudul’Aziz (Etsu Mi Wako)
4. HRH Alh. Aliyu Ndatsu Yakubu (Etsu Yaba)
5. HRH Alh. Husseini Mam (Agabe of Gwargwada)
6. HRH Alh. Sani Abubakar Pai (Sarkin Pai)
The representatives from Abuja North and Abuja South warmly welcomed the royal fathers and assured them of their unwavering commitment to the welfare and interests of the people they represent, regardless of party affiliation, religion, or tribe. They emphasized their dedication to inclusive governance and addressing the concerns of the FCT’s indigenous population.
During the meeting, the royal fathers expressed their gratitude to Hon. Joshua Chinedu Obika for his efforts in sponsoring bills and motions at the floor of the House of Representatives, which they described as a significant fight for the rights of the original inhabitants and residents of the FCT. The bills and motions highlighted include:
1. Establishment Bill, 2024 (HB. 1707) (1st Reading):
“FCT Displaced Original Inhabitants Resettlement and Integrated Agency”
This bill aims to address the resettlement and integration of displaced original inhabitants of the FCT.
2. Bill to Establish the Federal Capital Territory Scholarship Board (HB 2027):
Passed its first reading on Wednesday, 5th February 2025, this bill seeks to facilitate the provision of scholarships to pupils and students who are indigenes and residents of the FCT.
3. Motion on the Need to Appoint Additional Mandate Secretaries in the FCT:
This motion calls for adequate representation of the area councils in the FCT administration to ensure inclusivity and fairness.
The royal fathers commended these legislative efforts, recognizing their potential to significantly benefit the FCT’s indigenous population and residents. The meeting concluded on a positive and productive note, with both parties expressing optimism about the progress made and the continued collaboration between traditional leaders and elected representatives.
This engagement underscores the importance of dialogue and partnership between traditional institutions and political leaders in addressing the needs and aspirations of the people. It also highlights the commitment of Hon. Obika and Hon. Ajiya to advancing the welfare and development of the FCT community through legislative action.
Obika Media Team.
