By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Gbagyi Elders Forum (GEF) has called for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to be granted statehood, emphasising the need for enhanced political representation.

The forum expressed dissatisfaction with the FCT’s sole representative in the national cabinet, asserting that statehood is essential for achieving balanced representation and increased opportunities for the region.

Chief Peterson Kaura, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gbagyi Elders Forum, stated: “We are working diligently on this, and a movement is overseeing our efforts. Soon, we will make our call for the FCT to attain state status, as outlined in the Constitution, clearly heard in public. We are not entirely satisfied. No one can claim satisfaction, not even the larger tribes of Nigeria. With only one representative in the cabinet, we need more.

“Our efforts represent a movement towards the peaceful realisation of sustainable development for the Gbagyi people, helping us identify those who benefit from our disunity.”

This call was made over the weekend during the maiden Gbagyi Day Celebration in Abuja, where Emeritus Professor of History Enoch Oyedele delivered a lecture addressing the community’s challenges and opportunities.

Other speakers included Professor Andrew Zamani, Dr Balarabe Wakili, Dr Isa Baba, and Ambassador Esther Audu, all of whom highlighted the importance of unity and development.

Established four years ago, the GEF aims to unite Gbagyi groups across Nigeria and the diaspora, fostering mutual respect and shared goals for development.

Professor Oyedele warned that the Gbagyi people risk marginalisation if they do not address the leadership vacuum within their community.

“In my paper, I aim to convey to the Gbagyi people that there is a significant challenge ahead, and their leaders must rise to fill the leadership vacuum facing their ethnic group. If they do not, their land risks being overtaken by the ruling class and other ethnic groups. They must unite,” he said.

Retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Dan-Azumi Job Doma stressed the importance of unity and security, recalling efforts to combat banditry and insurgency in the region. He called for continued government support for the Gbagyi people.

“We will speak with one voice and strive to secure all benefits for Gbagyi land. Change will not happen overnight, but I assure you that in the years to come, the story of the Gbagyi people will be different. The Gbagyi people should no longer be marginalised,” he affirmed.

The GEF also announced plans to host Gbagyi Day annually on 8 February to celebrate the culture and wisdom of their elders and traditional leaders.