…as they prepare to drag FG, FCT authorities to court over alleged unfair treatment
By Deborah Onyofufeke, Abuja
Indigenous communities of the nation’s Federal Capital Territory, FCT, have reached out to their sons and daughters in legal practice to help them achieve their aim as they prepare to take the federal government and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) authorities to court over alleged unfair treatment.
The 858 communities of the FCT, in an appeal to their indigenous lawyers, alleged non-establishment of proper functionaries and political structures for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as well as alleged continued failure of relevant authorities to uphold the guiding principles of the Federal Character in the appointments of FCT residents and Original Inhabitants at both the federal and FCT administration levels.
The youths of the communities, operating under the aegis of Abuja Original Inhabitants Youth Empowerment Organization (AOIYEO), conveyed the appeal on Wednesday, in a letter signed by the Executive Director of AOIYEO,
Commandant Isaac David.
It read:” The Abuja Original Inhabitants Youth Empowerment Organization (AOIYEO, is inviting you to join our cause. We are currently aiming to address two major issues that are of great concern to our organization and the good people of 858 Communities in FCT as a whole.
“Firstly, we took legal action against the President and the National Assembly to urge them to establish the proper functionaries and political structures for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. As residents of FCT, we believe that it is essential for the FCT to have its functional governing bodies to better serve the needs of our people in FCT.
“Secondly, we are considering suing the relevant authorities due to their failure to uphold the guiding principles of the Federal Character in the appointments of FCT residents and Original Inhabitants (OIs) at both the federal and FCT administration levels. The Federal Character principle aims to ensure fairness, equity, and inclusivity in the distribution of public offices and services across the nation. However, we have observed a lack of adherence to this principle in the appointments made in the FCT, leading to a sense of underrepresentation and marginalization among the FCT Residents and indigenous people in the FCT.
“We firmly believe that these matters need to be addressed through legal means to ensure transparency, accountability, and fair representation within the FCT. By joining AOIYEO, you will be able to actively contribute to this important cause and work towards creating positive change in our community.
“We encourage all indigenous lawyers in Abuja to step forward and lend their expertise to help us pursue these legal actions. Your legal knowledge and skills will be crucial in navigating the complexities of these cases and presenting a strong argument on behalf of the Abuja community.
“Your involvement or partnership with AOIYEO would not only be beneficial to our ongoing efforts, but it would also serve as an opportunity for personal growth and development. By participating in these legal actions, you will gain valuable experience, expand your professional network, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of Abuja residents.
“If you are interested in joining or partnering with AOIYEO, and if you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are more than happy to provide you with additional information and discuss how you can contribute to our cause.
“Let us come together as FCT Residents Lawyers and indigenous lawyers of Abuja to fight for our rights, to uphold the principles of fairness and equity, and to ensure that the needs and aspirations of our community are met. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for the people of Abuja.”
