Call For Character, Shame, Respect, And Decency: Wike And Akpabio's Inevitable Apology To Senator Ireti Kingibe

In the intricate dance of political alliances and rivalries, a recent public spat between Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and Senator Ireti Kingibe, the senator representing the FCT, has sparked a significant response from Senate President Godswill Akpabio. This incident, which unfolded against the backdrop of the official flag-off ceremony for the construction of Kugbo Bus Terminal in the Federal Capital Territory, has brought to the fore the complexities of navigating democratic principles, ethical considerations, and the psychological aspects of leadership.

Senator Kingibe's public airing of grievances on Arise News Network, where she accused Minister Wike of excluding her from decision-making processes, set the stage for a deeper exploration of the dynamics at play within the political landscape. Her allegations, though specific, resonate with broader themes of inclusion, communication, and the ethical responsibilities of leadership within a democratic framework.

Senate President Akpabio's intervention, while firmly siding with Minister Wike, also serves as a critical moment for reflection on the ethical dimensions of political discourse. By urging Wike to disregard Kingibe's criticisms, Akpabio not only endorsed Wike's leadership but also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on one's duties amidst public scrutiny and criticism. This stance, however, also raises questions about the role of empathy, understanding, and reconciliation in political leadership.

As the narrative unfolded, the ethical imperative for both Akpabio and Wike to consider the psychological impact of their response on Senator Kingibe became evident. The path to reconciliation, in this context, was not merely about political expediency but also about acknowledging the value of dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect in the democratic process.

Nigeria has supposedly adopted the American political, presidential, and constitutional system but has often practiced it poorly. In the United States, it would be unimaginable for officials to ignore a senator from a state like New York because senators play a critical role in representing their constituents' interests and ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Even the President would not be able to ignore a senator. In fact, when a President visits a state, it is customary for them to include the senator in the visit as a form of respect, acknowledging the senator's knowledge of and responsibility for the area.

In a healthy democracy, senators wield considerable power and influence. They propose, debate, and vote on new laws, playing a crucial role in shaping the legal framework of the country. They represent the interests and concerns of their constituents, ensuring that their voices are heard in the national government. Senators provide oversight of the executive branch, ensuring that government agencies and officials are acting within the law and in the best interests of the public. They participate in the approval of the national budget, making decisions on how government funds should be allocated. Additionally, senators assist constituents with issues they may have with federal agencies, helping to resolve problems and provide information.

The disregard shown to Senator Kingibe by Wike and Akpabio is not only a personal affront but a violation of the democratic principles that should guide their actions. It is especially disheartening given that Kingibe is the sole senator representing the FCT, making her an essential voice for the region's residents.

What is truly sad is that these two men, Minister Wike and Senate President Akpabio, are treating the one and only senator of the FCT with such disdain, likely because she is a woman. This gender bias is further highlighted by Wike's actions. Instead of collaborating with Senator Kingibe, Wike has been making rounds in the Abuja territory with the former male senator whom Kingibe defeated in the last election, seemingly to provoke and undermine her. This behavior exemplifies the deeply ingrained male domination and lack of respect for women that persists in many African settings.

The issue of male dominance and the marginalization of women in African politics is a significant barrier to true democratic progress. Women like Senator Kingibe face an uphill battle not just against political opponents but against a system that often fails to respect their authority and contributions. It is imperative for the advancement of democracy and equality that this systemic bias be addressed and rectified.

There is a pressing need to practice real senatorial business. Nigeria has only one senator in the FCT, and it is high time to stop spitting on this woman. Respect and recognition should be extended to Senator Kingibe by making her the chair of the Senate FCT Committee. This would not only honor her position but also reinforce the principles of democratic fairness and gender equality.

Furthermore, Minister Wike has been criticized by many individuals and groups for threatening to unseat Ireti Kingibe, as if he were the Abuja electorate. Such threats highlight the problematic nature of electoral corruption, which many assertwill not work in Abuja. Critics argue that Wike’s antagonistic approach will likely result in his removal from the position of FCT Minister before 2027.

In a detailed critique, Ikechukwu Amaechi described Wike as irascible and quarrelsome, traits unbecoming of a good leader. His tenure as governor of Rivers State was marked by constant conflict and a refusal to accept constructive criticism. Wike's confrontational nature has continued in his role as FCT Minister, creating unnecessary conflicts with Senator Kingibe.

Wike’s vow to ensure that Kingibe does not return to the Senate in 2027, delivered during the flag-off of the construction of Mabushi Bus Terminal, underscores his combative stance. This statement not only reveals Wike’s disregard for democratic processes but also his intent to manipulate political outcomes through intimidation.

Kingibe, elected by an overwhelming majority of the Abuja electorate, desires a collaborative relationship with the FCT Minister for the benefit of the territory. Her frustration, expressed in a recent television interview, reflects the broader dissatisfaction of her constituents. She acknowledged Wike's achievements but lamented that his efforts have not sufficiently benefited the masses. Wike’s focus on building roads, bus terminals, and government houses, while neglecting what Kingibe referred to as the people's basic needs such as schools, residences, water, electricity, and markets, highlights a disconnect between infrastructure projects and the essential services that directly impact the daily lives of the people.

Wike's antagonism towards Kingibe, coupled with his thin-skinned responses to criticism, highlights his unsuitability for a leadership role that requires humility and cooperation. His threats to undermine Kingibe’s political career further reveal a troubling inclination towards authoritarianism, an approach that stands in stark contrast to the democratic ideals Nigeria aspires to uphold.

Moreover, Wike's use of deeply disrespectful and harmful language towards Kingibe, such as telling her to "go and hang yourself in a transformer," reveals a level of contempt and aggression that is unbecoming of any public official. Such statements not only display a lack of basic decency and respect but also incite negative sentiments that have no place in a democratic society. Wishing ill upon a colleague, including suggesting that Kingibe's blood pressure will rise due to her criticisms, is a gross deviation from the standards of respectful political discourse.

Even though we are in Africa, specifically Nigeria, Wike needs to understand that a senator is a senator with considerable powers. His behavior is not just disrespectful but detrimental to democratic principles. With his bad behavior, it is likely that Wike will not remain the FCT Minister for much longer, as constituents are speaking out to protect their senator.

This incident, therefore, serves as a pivotal moment for reflection on the deeper ethical and psychological underpinnings of political leadership. It challenged Akpabio and Wike to consider the broader implications of their actions and the potential for a more inclusive and empathetic approach to political discourse. As the dust settled, the hope remained that this episode would lead to a deeper understanding and a commitment to ethical leadership that prioritizes democratic values, inclusivity, and the psychological well-being of all stakeholders involved.

In the end, the journey towards reconciliation and the evolution of political discourse in the FCT and beyond will be measured not just by the projects inaugurated but by the ethical and psychological ground covered in the pursuit of a more inclusive and empathetic political culture.

In the heart of the political tempest, where the winds of disrespect and arrogance howl, there lies a curse, ancient and potent, waiting to be awakened. This is not a curse of the ordinary kind, but one that is woven from the very fabric of women's spirits, a collective power that has been underestimated for far too long.

Should Wike and Akpabio, in their infinite hubris, choose to dismiss the call for apology and reconciliation with Senator Kingibe, they will find themselves entangled in the most formidable of adversaries: the wrath of women's spirits. This curse, once invoked, will not simply fade away with the passing of days. It will become their constant companion, a specter that haunts their every step, turning the streets of Abuja and the vast expanses of Nigeria into a labyrinth of remorse.

At night, as they seek refuge in sleep, the spirits will descend upon them, transforming their dreams into nightmares. Visions of her—a figure that embodies the strength and fury of all women scorned—will torment their slumber, a relentless reminder of the price of disrespect. This is not a mere fancy but a chilling reality, a testament to the power that lies dormant within the collective spirit of women, waiting to be unleashed upon those who dare to trifle with their dignity.

Let this serve as a stark warning: underestimate the women's spirit at your peril. For in doing so, you invite a curse that will not rest until justice is served, a spectral force that will pursue you to the ends of the earth, ensuring that the debt of disrespect is paid in full.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, public policy psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at Weldios University, Nexus International University, and Walden University. John.Oshodi@mail.waldenu.edu

   Comments0