In response to recent concerns and disapproval from Northern senators and youths, the Presidency clarified on Wednesday that there are no plans to relocate the Federal Capital of Nigeria back to Lagos.
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The government labeled the rumors as a creation by “mischief-makers” aiming to sow ethnic mistrust.
The controversy arose following the relocation of the Department of Banking Supervision of the Central Bank of Nigeria to Lagos and the directive to move the head office of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria to the same city.
Critics, particularly from the North, expressed dissatisfaction, considering it a move to disadvantage their region.
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial, accused President Tinubu of being misinformed by “political cartels” and warned of potential political consequences.
However, the Presidency, through Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, dismissed these claims, emphasizing that Abuja’s status as the Federal Capital is legally binding.
Onanuga attributed the rumors to political opponents who failed to prevent Tinubu’s presidency, accusing them of playing divisive politics. He clarified that the relocation of certain agencies to Lagos does not signify moving the Federal Capital.
Additionally, Senator Karimi Sunday disagreed with Ndume’s sentiments, asserting that the relocation aims for cohesion and improved service delivery, urging leaders to avoid divisive utterances.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s spokesperson, Doyin Okupe, cautioned Ndume, considering his comments provocative.
Meanwhile, Udengs Eradiri, a former President of the Ijaw Youth Council, appealed to President Tinubu to consider relocating key federal agencies involved in the oil business to the Niger Delta region. Eradiri emphasized the need for decentralization and development, suggesting it would contribute to the region’s growth and prevent attacks on oil facilities.
