Reps assure FCT traditional rulers of improved funding

The House of Representatives has assured traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of its commitment to improving their funding and addressing their concerns.

Chairman of the House Committee on FCT Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, Hon. Fredrick Agbedi, gave the assurance during an interactive session with the FCT Traditional Council in Abuja on Monday.

Agbedi acknowledged the vital role traditional rulers play in cultural preservation, security, conflict resolution, and community development. He assured the council of the committee’s willingness to explore legislative backing for the five percent deduction from Area Council funds for traditional institutions. He also pledged to consider upgrading traditional stools and creating more chiefdoms to enhance their effectiveness.

“We recognize and appreciate the critical role traditional rulers play in fostering peace and stability within the FCT. Your contributions to local development are invaluable,” Agbedi stated.

However, he noted that the current financial framework does not explicitly provide for such an allocation, as funds are primarily designated for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare. He emphasized that any allocation to traditional institutions would require a legislative review and policy amendments.

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Agbedi further disclosed that an Area Councils Administration Establishment Bill recently passed its first reading in the House of Representatives. He assured the council that the committee would engage relevant stakeholders to explore ways of addressing the concerns of traditional rulers, including possible financial support.

In response, Chairman of the FCT Traditional Council, Alhaji Adamu Baba Yunusa (Abaji Chiefdom), highlighted the council’s financial struggles, stating that the 17 graded chiefdoms across the six Area Councils face numerous challenges due to inadequate funding and the absence of a legal framework to strengthen their operations. He appealed for the implementation of a five percent allocation from local government funds, as practiced in some states, to address these challenges.

Meanwhile, Hon. Inombek Abiante expressed displeasure over the treatment of indigenous FCT residents, while Hon. Jonathan Gwefwi criticized the resettlement process, condemning the displacement of people from their ancestral lands without adequate alternative settlements.

The House Committee assured the traditional rulers of continued dialogue and support to ensure their roles are recognized within the broader governance framework of the FCT and its Area Councils.