Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has pledged to introduce the Abuja Residents Empowerment Bill if elected as Senator for the Federal Capital Territory in 2027. She made the announcement on Sunday via a statement posted on her verified X account. The proposed bill includes provisions for rent control, elimination of double taxation, and access to capital through micro-loans funded by a portion of taxes collected in Abuja. Yesufu stated the bill would mandate quotas for youth and women-led businesses in government contracts.
Yesufu, co-convener of the BringBackOurGirls Movement, framed the initiative as a way to ensure residents benefit directly from the city's revenue. She emphasized that the skills empowerment component would equip Abuja residents with practical, market-relevant abilities. "The Rent Control component of my Bill will protect you from unjust rent hikes," she wrote. "Access to Capital mandates that ensure a portion of Abuja taxes is used to provide micro-loans to support businesses."
The announcement marks a formal articulation of her policy priorities ahead of the 2027 elections. Yesufu did not disclose details on how the bill would be funded beyond the proposed reallocation of existing tax revenue. She has not previously held elected office. Her campaign for the senatorial seat is yet to be formally launched.
Aisha Yesufu wants to sponsor a bill ensuring Abuja residents benefit from local taxes, even though she has never held legislative office. The promise of micro-loans and rent control may sound transformative, but without a track record in lawmaking, the proposal remains a political aspiration. Nigerians in the FCT cannot spend promises on rent or business capital. The 2027 election will determine whether her activism translates into actionable policy.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
