A prominent traditional ruler in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has urged the federal government to create additional local government councils and senatorial districts for Abuja, arguing that the current structure no longer meets the needs of the growing population.
The monarch, whose name was not disclosed, emphasized that expanding the administrative framework would ensure better representation, improved governance, and more equitable resource distribution for residents. He noted that Abuja’s rapid urbanization and increasing population demand a restructuring of its political and administrative divisions.
Currently, the FCT has six area councils and just one senatorial seat, unlike other states with multiple senators and larger local government allocations. The traditional leader stressed that granting Abuja more councils and senators would enhance grassroots development and bring government closer to the people.
This appeal comes amid ongoing debates about the political representation of the FCT, with some stakeholders advocating for statehood. The monarch’s demand aligns with broader calls for constitutional reforms to address the unique governance challenges of Nigeria’s capital.
Analysts suggest that such changes could lead to greater autonomy and accelerated development in the FCT, though the proposal would require legislative approval. The federal government has yet to respond to the request.
