FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared that Senator Ireti Kingibe will not return to the Senate in 2027, amid an escalating dispute over the financing of infrastructure projects in the Federal Capital Territory.

Wike made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking with journalists during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Abuja.

Kingibe had accused the FCT Administration of securing loans without the required approval of the National Assembly. Wike rejected the allegation, insisting that government borrowing is incorporated into the budget and subject to legislative approval.

The minister also backed former senator Philip Aduda for the FCT Senate seat, saying residents had already made their choice ahead of the 2027 elections.

Wike defended the FCT’s borrowing for infrastructure, arguing that the key issue should be whether the funds are being properly used to deliver projects for residents.

The dispute between Wike and Kingibe comes amid broader political tensions over the management and development of the nation’s capital.

The House of Representatives has also dismissed the allegation of unlawful borrowing, with its Deputy Spokesman, Philip Agbese, saying there was no evidence that the FCT Administration violated the required procedures.

Wike, who linked the ongoing infrastructure inspections to the campaign season, said the projects demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to improving roads and economic activity across the FCT.