Indigenes of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have come together to beseech President Bola Tinubu for a ministerial slot or a prominent role as the head of a Federal Government agency. The call for representation was made during a press briefing organized to advocate for the recognition and inclusion of FCT natives in the nation’s political landscape.
At the press conference held on Monday, spokesman for the FCT natives, Amos Danlami, expressed deep concern over what he described as the long-standing marginalization of their people since the country’s return to democracy in 1999. The lack of representation in key government positions has left the FCT community feeling excluded and disheartened.
Danlami emphasized the urgent need for an indigene to be appointed to a significant governmental role, stating, “The longer the appointment of an indigene is left unattended to, the more we feel left out and deprived of joy that we are supposed to be recognized as a people and community in the FCT.”
Criticizing past administrations for neglecting the FCT natives, Danlami highlighted the capabilities and qualifications of their community members, expressing their desire to contribute to the development and progress of Nigeria. He implored President Tinubu to offer them the opportunity to serve and make a difference in various sectors.
“Our culture shows how much we have come to terms with the universe; we always aspire to give life a meaning no matter the situation we find ourselves,” added Danlami, emphasizing the unique perspective and values of the FCT natives.
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Supporting the call for inclusivity, Lazarus Zaka, a former Director of Human Resource Management in the FCT, urged the youth to remain patient and calm. He lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to democracy and inclusiveness, expressing confidence in his leadership to elevate the nation to greater heights.
“Tinubu is a man of his words who has contributed significantly to the growth and development of democracy in Nigeria. His pedigree attests to the fact that he can pull the nation to greater heights,” asserted Zaka.
He further emphasized President Tinubu’s role as a consummate democrat and leader of progressives who fought for the establishment of democratic rule in the country. Zaka expressed his trust in President Tinubu’s ability to include the FCT natives in his administration, recognizing them as peace-loving, transparent, and accommodating people.
As the Senate awaits the second batch of ministerial nominees, the appeal from the FCT natives for fair representation in government has brought their longstanding struggle to the forefront. The plea for inclusivity seeks to foster a more equitable political landscape and ensure the active participation of all regions in shaping the nation’s future.