Wike had argued that Kingibe was not the legitimate senator, thereby relieving him of any obligation to engage with her.
In her rebuttal, Kingibe referenced Sections 122 and 124 of the Evidence Act, which mandate Wike to recognise her as the official holder of the senatorial seat.
Speaking in an interview on Arise TV’s This Day programme, she also pointed to Section 24 of the Nigerian Constitution, which she argued imposes a duty on the minister, in this case Wike, to acknowledge her legitimate status as senator.
Kingibe emphasised that her assertions were not aimed at targeting any individual but were focused on highlighting the legal obligations that apply to all ministers.
She stressed the importance of adherence to these legal provisions, which are designed to ensure that elected officials are recognised and respected in their official capacities.
The dispute centres on Wike’s refusal to recognise Kingibe as the duly elected senator of the FCT, a stance that Kingibe argues is in direct violation of established legal statutes.
By invoking specific sections of both the Evidence Act and the Nigerian Constitution, she aims to underline the legal basis for her position and the expectations placed upon ministers to comply with these laws.
Kingibe said, “I am the senator, but he (Wike) said in interviews that I claim I am the senator of the FCT, and he’s not obliged to deal with me. But I am saying that under Sections 122 and 124 of the Evidence Act, he’s bound by the judicial notice of the occupier of the seat of the senator of FCT.
“I’m also saying that Section 24 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria impunes on him a duty, that of the honourable minister, but I’m not calling any names because anybody who is a minister is bound by those same laws and duties.”CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
