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The issue of securing twenty five percent in the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT), has been a topical issue in the ongoing Presidential elections tribunal proceedings.
Some on one side of the divide say you don’t need to get 25% in the FCT to be declared winner. Others on the other side of the divide say it is a constitutional requirement to secure victory ,citing previous supreme court judgements.
The main thrust of the argument of those who say 25% is not required is that FCT has equal status with other States. I think this is not true.
The FCT is a microcosm of Nigeria. The FCT in it’s original concept belongs to all Nigerians.
Many may not be aware that in 1980, when it was being developed, FCT land was shared among the States of the Federation.
I was involved in the allocation (by balloting) of then Bendel State share under Governor Prof Ambrose Alli. In which other states of the Federation do Nigerians have land statutorily allocated to them.
Constitutionally, the President is the governor of the FCT. The FCT Minister is acting on his behalf.
The President not having 25% in the FCT is like a governor not having 25% in his state elections.
This was the intent of those who drafted the constitution.
This is my humble submission
C.A Adodo is a Pharmacist writes from Benin city
