FCT Senator Addresses Criticism and Advocates for Empowerment at VOW Conference
Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has shared her experiences as a woman in the National Assembly, highlighting the significant challenges she faces in advocating for progress on various issues. Despite these obstacles, Kingibe has made notable strides in her role.
Her remarks come in the wake of criticism from rural women and female farmers in the FCT, who feel neglected after supporting her during the elections. Speaking anonymously at the 8th edition of the Voice of Women (VOW) conference and awards in Abuja, one woman expressed disappointment, stating that there has been a lack of follow-up engagement, training, or empowerment initiatives for local women who campaigned for Kingibe.
The woman lamented, “Last year, during the political campaign, we mobilized our communities to support female candidates, but since then, there has been no avenue for communication, no town hall meetings, and no acknowledgment of our support.”
She further noted that local women, who were enthusiastic about voting for a woman in the FCT, feel abandoned after the elections. “We were looking for a way to engage and support those who campaigned for us, but we have received nothing in return,” she said.
In response, Kingibe expressed her frustration with misconceptions surrounding governance, emphasizing that she is the only woman elected in the FCT. “There is a misunderstanding of what governance means. For me, it’s about bringing the most benefits to the people,” she asserted.
Kingibe acknowledged that while she may not have personally reached out to every voter, her focus has been on broad initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents in the FCT. She also addressed the difficulties women face in the National Assembly, stating that she must continuously lobby ministers to secure funding for essential projects.
Despite the challenges, Kingibe remains committed to advocating for her constituents and ensuring that the voices of women in her region are heard.
