FCT minister Nyesom Wike has approved the upgrade of all second-class chiefs to first-class and third-class chiefs to second-class status within the Abuja Council of Chiefs.

Mr Wike announced the approval in Abaji on Tuesday, during his visit to the area to thank the people for supporting Tinubu’s candidates in the February 21 Abuja council elections.

Mr Wike explained that the gesture followed a request by the Ona of Abaji, Adamu Yunusa.

“This gesture is because you have worked hard for it, and you deserve it. All I want from you is to continue to support Mr President, and you will see many good things,” he assured.

The minister, who thanked the Ona for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration, asked the council chairman, Abubakar Abdullahi, to get a design for a befitting palace for the traditional leader.

“We sat down with you and made a request that you should support Tinubu and that the support should begin with the area council elections.

“The election was held on February 21, and you fulfilled your promise. You came out in your numbers and gave Tinubu 133 out of the 135 polling units in the area council.

“What else can we say but thank you. Now that you have done your own, we will do our own too. Abaji people have spoken, and they have spoken very well,” Mr Wike said.

Mr Yunusa commended the minister for upgrading the status of Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, to a first-class chief.

He appealed to the minister to consider upgrading all deserving second-class chiefs to first-class and third-class chiefs to second-class chiefs.

“This will go a long way in ensuring that some of the traditional leaders that are yet to be integrated into the FCT Council of Chiefs will be integrated when upgraded to third-class chiefs.

“Also, in line with the commitment to promoting our traditional institution, I humbly request a new palace that reflects the status of the chairman of the council of chiefs.

“This will not only enhance the institution but also symbolise the rich culture and history of the FCT,” he said.

Mr Yunusa also requested the establishment of a liaison office in the city centre to facilitate better communication and collaboration between the traditional rulers and the government.

(NAN)