During a Senate plenary session on Thursday, Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), exited the chamber in protest after Senate President Godswill Akpabio denied her the opportunity to present a motion concerning ongoing demolitions in Abuja

The session had been proceeding without incident until Senator Kingibe raised a point of order to discuss the demolition of structures in the FCT, actions reportedly initiated by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. She expressed concerns that these demolitions were causing significant hardship and property losses for residents.

Senate President Akpabio interrupted her, noting that the motion was not listed on the day’s order paper, which is required by Senate rules. Despite Senator Kingibe’s explanation that she had submitted the motion to the Committee on Rules and Business, the committee’s chairman, Titus Zam, stated that no such submission had been received.

Frustrated by the situation, Senator Kingibe collected her belongings and left the chamber. In her absence, fellow senators, including Asuquo Ekpenyong and Oyelola Ashiru, appealed to the Senate President to reconsider. Subsequently, Senators Augustine Akobondu and Idiat Adebule were dispatched to persuade Senator Kingibe to return.

Upon her return, Senate President Akpabio requested that she apologize for her earlier departure. Although initially hesitant, Senator Kingibe eventually complied. She then proceeded to present her motion, highlighting that the demolitions were not in accordance with due process and had resulted in substantial losses for affected individuals.

The Senate granted her motion and established an eight-member ad hoc committee to engage with the FCT administration regarding the demolitions. The Senate also resolved that the Federal Capital Development Authority should suspend ongoing demolitions, except those mandated by court orders, until the committee concludes its discussions.

This incident underscores the tensions within the Senate over the FCT’s demolition activities and the importance of adhering to procedural rules during legislative proceedings.