FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has approved the promotion of all second-class chiefs to first-class and third-class chiefs to second-class within the Abuja Council of Chiefs.
He made the announcement in Abaji on Tuesday while visiting to thank residents for supporting Tinubu’s candidates during the February 21 Abuja council elections.
Wike said the decision followed a request from the Ona of Abaji, Adamu Yunusa.
“This gesture is because you have worked hard for it, and you deserve it. All I want from you is to continue to support Mr President, and you will see many good things,” he assured.
The minister also thanked the Ona for backing President Bola Tinubu’s administration and instructed the council chairman, Abubakar Abdullahi, to prepare a suitable design for a new palace for the traditional ruler.
“We sat down with you and made a request that you should support Tinubu and that the support should begin with the area council elections.
“The election was held on February 21, and you fulfilled your promise. You came out in your numbers and gave Tinubu 133 out of the 135 polling units in the area council.
“What else can we say but thank you. Now that you have done your own, we will do our own too. Abaji people have spoken, and they have spoken very well,” Wike said.
The Ona of Abaji, Mr Yunusa, praised the minister for upgrading the Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, to first-class chief.
He urged Wike to extend similar promotions to all deserving second-class chiefs and third-class chiefs.
“This will go a long way in ensuring that some of the traditional leaders that are yet to be integrated into the FCT Council of Chiefs will be integrated when upgraded to third-class chiefs.
“Also, in line with the commitment to promoting our traditional institution, I humbly request a new palace that reflects the status of the chairman of the council of chiefs.
“This will not only enhance the institution but also symbolise the rich culture and history of the FCT,” he said.
Mr Yunusa further proposed setting up a liaison office in the city centre to improve communication and cooperation between traditional rulers and the government.
