Senator Ireti Kingibe, the lawmaker representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly, has made a significant declaration concerning the upcoming 2027 presidential election. She announced her intention to support the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), whomever that may be.
Nationalist Stance Over Personal Loyalty
The senator made this pivotal announcement on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, during an appearance on Channels Television's 'Politics Today' programme. Kingibe framed her decision as one driven by nationalism and a commitment to a robust democratic process, rather than allegiance to any single individual.
"I am a nationalist. The truth is that Peter Obi may be the candidate of the ADC in 2027; he may not be," Kingibe stated. She elaborated, "I joined the ADC as an opposition to support the party and whoever the candidate is; if it's Peter Obi, very well and good, we will work for him. If he is not, whoever it is, we will work for the person too."
She emphasized the critical need for a strong opposition in Nigeria's democracy, warning against the perils of a one-party system. "I've always believed in the opposition; I don't think a one-party state is the best thing for our democracy," she asserted.
Sharp Critique of Tinubu's Economic Management
Kingibe used the platform to deliver a pointed assessment of President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, arguing that they have placed an excessive burden on ordinary Nigerians. She contended that the prosperity promised by the administration has not materialized for the citizenry.
"Nigerians could do with a lot less tax," the senator declared, calling for a comprehensive review of the current tax regime. Responding to the President's assurances that current sacrifices would soon yield positive results, Kingibe expressed deep skepticism.
"I don't know if we are nearing the end. The truth is that there is bound to be some pain, but I think that certain things can be put in place to alleviate the discomfort for the people," she said. She added that while the President's intentions might be good, flawed implementation remains a major hurdle, noting that "policies won't work if they are circumvented."
Explaining the Defection from a 'Factionalised' Labour Party
Addressing her recent high-profile defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the ADC, Kingibe dismissed the notion of political betrayal. She justified her move by stating that the Labour Party is no longer a viable platform due to severe internal divisions.
"The Labour Party is factionalised. There are two Labour Party ships," she explained, insisting that the party's internal crisis rendered it ineffective as a credible electoral vehicle. Kingibe, who won her FCT senatorial seat in 2023 under the LP's banner, stressed that her primary goal is to support a functional opposition.
Furthermore, the senator firmly rejected any suggestion that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, holds sway over her political future. She dismissed speculation that Wike could influence whether she returns to the Senate in 2027, stating he had "no say" in the matter.
Kingibe's declarations signal her strategic positioning within the evolving opposition landscape as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 polls. Her focus on party over personality and her sharp economic critique set the stage for her role in the coming electoral contest.
