Aisha Yesufu pushes for three senators, six reps for FCT

Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has explained why she believes the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, deserves more representation in Nigeria’s National Assembly, arguing that the territory’s growing population and size justify an increase in elected officials.

Speaking during a grassroots mobilisation event, Yesufu said Abuja has developed beyond its current level of representation and should be treated in a manner similar to states that currently have multiple lawmakers representing them at the federal level.

According to her, the FCT now has a population larger than at least 10 states in Nigeria and also covers a land area bigger than eight states. She argued that these factors show that the territory has expanded significantly over the years and requires broader political representation to address the needs of residents.

Yesufu stated that the FCT should have three senators instead of one and should also be allocated at least six seats in the House of Representatives. She maintained that increasing representation would help improve governance and ensure that the concerns of people living across the various area councils receive greater attention.

She said more lawmakers would create additional channels for residents to communicate their challenges and expectations at the National Assembly, adding that a larger representation structure could help attract more attention to issues such as infrastructure, education, security, healthcare and development projects in the nation’s capital.

“The FCT has gone past the stage where we have to struggle for one senator. FCT should have three senators. It will be for the betterment of Abuja as a whole,” she said.

She further noted that with three senators and more members in the House of Representatives, residents would have stronger voices during legislative discussions and policy decisions affecting the territory.

Yesufu acknowledged that changing the existing arrangement may require constitutional and political processes but insisted that the goal remains achievable through sustained advocacy and public support.

Her comments come as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 general elections, where she is seeking to represent the FCT in the Senate. She also stressed that her political ambition would not replace her advocacy work but would serve as another platform to push for reforms and improved representation for residents.

The proposal has added to ongoing conversations about governance, population growth and political inclusion within Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.