Governance
Wike Approves One-Step Upgrade for FCT Second and Third Class Chiefs
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Dr. Nyesom Wike, has approved the upgrade of all second-class chiefs to first-class status and all third-class chiefs to second-class status in the FCT Council of Chiefs.
Wike announced the approval in Abaji on Tuesday during his visit to the area to thank residents for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s candidates in the Feb.
The minister explained that the decision followed a request by the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Adamu Yunusa.
“This gesture is because you have worked hard for it and you deserve it. All I want from you is to continue to support Mr. President and you will see many good things,” Wike said.
He also thanked the Ona of Abaji for supporting Tinubu’s administration and directed the Abaji Area Council Chairman, Mr. Abubakar Abdullahi, to prepare a design for a befitting palace for the traditional ruler.
Wike explained that his visit to Abaji was to appreciate the people for fulfilling their promise to support the President.
Earlier, the Ona of Abaji, Alhaji Adamu Baba Yunusa, commended Wike for upgrading the status of the Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, to a first-class chief.
“This has been part of our prayers to previous administrations. This decision reflects your understanding of the importance of traditional institutions in our society,” Yunusa said.
He appealed to the minister to consider upgrading all deserving second-class chiefs to first-class and third-class chiefs to second-class chiefs, adding that the move will help integrate more traditional leaders into the FCT Council of Chiefs.
Yunusa also appealed to the minister to build a new palace befitting the status of the chairman of the Council of Chiefs as well as requested the establishment of a liaison office in the city centre to facilitate better communication and collaboration between traditional rulers and the government.
“This will not only enhance the institution but also symbolise the rich culture and history of the FCT,” he said.
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