By Paul Joseph
Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe has strongly criticized the curfew imposed on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, describing the directive as authoritarian, undemocratic, and harmful to residents.
Kingibe faulted the decision, arguing that it was implemented without consultation with key stakeholders, including elected representatives and community leaders. According to her, such sweeping restrictions should not be enforced unilaterally in a democratic setting without broad engagement and clear justification.
The senator maintained that the curfew would negatively affect the local economy, particularly small and medium-scale businesses that depend on evening commercial activities for survival. She warned that restricting movement without what she termed “serious and verifiable security concerns” risks undermining public trust and economic stability in the nation’s capital.
“It is unacceptable to impose restrictions that affect millions of residents without due consultation and compelling reasons,” she said, adding that governance must prioritize the welfare and freedoms of citizens.
Kingibe called for the immediate lifting of the curfew, insisting that it disregards the well-being of FCT residents and does not appear to be backed by any pressing security threat that would warrant such extraordinary measures.
The development has sparked debate within political and civic circles in Abuja, with observers noting the tension between security management and civil liberties in the administration of the Federal Capital Territory.
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