The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has denied allegations that she collected money to facilitate a fake Federal Government contract, describing the claims as false and baseless.

In a statement she personally signed and issued on Tuesday, the lawmaker said she has never requested or received money for any contract, nor authorised anyone to do so on her behalf.

“The publication by The Sun Nigeria alleging that I was “dragged to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over a ₦100 million kickback for a fake contract” is entirely false and raises serious questions about motive, particularly given its suspicious timing.

“According to the report, I was linked to an alleged kickback tied to a so-called “fake contract.”

“Let it be stated categorically, and without ambiguity, I have never been invited, queried, or contacted by the ICPC on this or any related matter.

“At no time has the Commission written to me or sought any explanation regarding any allegation whatsoever.

“Even more fundamentally, as a Senator, I do not award contracts, not even for constituency projects. All such projects are executed strictly by relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government in line with established procedures.

“Any attempt to associate me with contract awards reflects either a fundamental misunderstanding of how government functions or a deliberate act of misinformation.

“What is most telling, however, is the timing. How coincidental that this publication surfaces the very morning after my interview on ARISE Television, where I spoke candidly on the state of the nation and held the government accountable.

“This pattern is not lost on discerning observers. It is becoming increasingly evident that those who choose to speak truth to power must now contend not only with resistance but also with calculated attempts at intimidation and character assassination.

“Let it be made clear, I will not be silenced.

“I remain resolute in my commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. If this is the consequence of refusing to align with the excesses of government, then so be it.

“I fully expect more of such attacks. They will not deter me, because the Nigerian people deserve leaders who will speak boldly, not those who shrink from the truth,” Kingibe stated. (The Sun)