Contrary to a recent call by the FCT Original Inhabitants Group for FCT indigenes to lead the newly established Civil Service Commission, the concerned South-South Youth Network for Sustainability advocates for fairness, equity, and true federal character representation in all FCT positions.
The President of the group, Ebiware Thompson, advises the FCT Minister to disregard sentiments and tribalism demonstrated by the FCT group.
Initially, the concept of the FCT as a new federal character territory, under the administration of General Murtala, aimed to include all Nigerians and make the FCT a place for all ethnic groups in the country.
The efforts by Governor Wike towards establishing a civil service commission, removing the FCTA from the Treasury Single Account, and submitting names of mine directors for upgrading as permanent secretaries are commendable.
Any notion that only indigenous tribes such as Ebira Abaji, Gana Gana, Gbagyi, Gade, Bassa, Gwandara, Pai Fulani, and Koro should receive slots is misguided.
The group urges the minister to beware of saboteurs in his administration and calls for merit awards for performing agencies in the FCT to promote efficiency.
Since inception, the Minister has initiated road rehabilitation in both township and area councils, combated kidnapping and armed banditry through support to security agencies leading to significant arrests, and resolved administrative crises in Abuja markets management, enabling FCT markets to thrive.
Institutions like the FRSC and VIO need reorientation towards a civil approach to traffic matters, as their drastic impounding of vehicles without due process damages the administration’s image.
Strengthening the FCT Water Board is essential for water supply across the FCT, and partnering with electricity distribution companies to ensure constant electricity supply is crucial. The Minister is urged to address arrears owed to staff by Kwali and Gwagwalada area councils and to take over the UTC market, demolished under the last administration, for redevelopment.
Empowering the Abuja agency responsible for markets to build affordable shops is necessary, along with creating mass awareness for the newly introduced park-and-pay system.
Under Governor Wike’s leadership, the FCT is progressing, but more efforts are needed to extend palliatives to the vulnerable, as many are facing difficulties.
Additionally, the FCT Security Services Department should be empowered to monitor surveillance by security agencies at odd spots and flashpoints.”
