A group, the Kebbi Progressive Youth Assembly said the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and Kebbi Central lawmaker, Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero are free to seek elections in the state if they desire in 2027.
The group appealed to youths of Kebbi Central and the State not to be distracted by those allegedly asking the political office holders against contesting elections.
In a statement to LEADERSHIP on Saturday and signed by its Secretary General, Zayyanu Muhammad, the group noted that such persons were only “out to blackmail, spread fake news, and create mischief in order to secure political tickets for Kebbi Central through the backdoor.
“We strongly condemn the attempts to sow discord by spreading lies about the cordial relationship between our able Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, and his predecessors, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero.
“Kebbi is known for its peaceful political culture, and we will not allow faceless propagandists to cause rancor or disharmony,” Muhammad said.
He noted that both Senators Aliero and Bagudu diligently served the state as governors, ministers, and senators. “They remain our heroes and role models, and no amount of blackmail will stop them from exercising their constitutional right to contest for leadership positions if the people so decide.
“Senator Aliero, as Governor (1999–2007), laid the foundation for modern Birnin Kebbi, building access roads, schools, hospitals, and agricultural infrastructure. As FCT Minister, he oversaw road expansion, mass housing, and the provision of ultramodern facilities.
“Similarly, Senator Bagudu, as Governor, transformed Kebbi into Nigeria’s rice production hub through massive support for farmers and the Anchor Borrowers Programme.
“This led to the rise of industries such as WACOT Rice (Big Bull Rice), Lolo Rice Mill, Sajo Rice Mill, Dangote Rice Mill (under construction), and GB Foods in Ngaski LGA, among others — turning Kebbi farmers into commercial producers. He also mentored young leaders, facilitated federal jobs for indigenes, and continues to attract developmental projects to Kebbi as Minister.”
The youths urged leaders in the state to remain vigilant against those they called desperate individuals “sponsoring miscreants to destabilise our polity. Kebbi people know their leaders, and they will decide at the ballot box, not through propaganda.”
Finally, Muhammad reaffirmed that Governor Idris enjoys a harmonious working relationship with Senators Bagudu and Aliero, adding, “This unity is already yielding peace and development, which will continue to attract both local and foreign investment into our state.”
It charged those calling for their withdrawal to desist, saying, “if you want to contest, stop hiding. Come forward openly, join the race, and let the people of Kebbi Central decide.”
