FCT Elections: Nigerians have had their say, Keyamo fires back at critics

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has commended residents of the Federal Capital Territory for participating in the just-concluded area council elections, insisting that the outcome reflects the true voice of Nigerians.

The minister also warned individuals and groups against arrogating to themselves the right to speak on behalf of the country without any legitimate mandate.

Keyamo made the remarks in a blunt reaction to post-election debates, which he shared via his official handle on X.

He said, “The real Nigerians have now spoken for themselves; not those who pose for cameras in front of the National Assembly, claiming to speak for Nigerians; not some funny journalists who don’t know the polling units in their villages, seated comfortably in some studios and claiming to speak for Nigerians; and not the clueless opposition claiming to speak for Nigerians.”

Emphasising the difference between personal opinion and national representation, the minister added, “Everyone or any group have a right to their opinions, but never claim to speak for ‘Nigerians’ when there is no yardstick to ascertain your claim.

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He further urged commentators to be clear and transparent about whose views they are expressing when engaging the public.

“When you make your point, clearly state it is your own belief or the position of your NGO or organisation, but do not pose as some Voltron defending majority of ‘Nigerians’. That is just my point,” Keyamo said.

The FCT area council elections were conducted on Saturday across the six councils—Abuja Municipal Area Council, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali. The exercise was largely peaceful, with voter turnout recorded across polling units and results gradually collated and announced on Sunday.

The polls, which determine grassroots leadership in the nation’s capital, are widely regarded as an important indicator of political strength and public sentiment within the Federal Capital Territory.

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