A respected grassroots politician and public affairs advocate, Alhaji Babangida Bature Funtua, has thrown his weight behind Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration, calling for his re-election.
Bature hailed the governor’s achievements across critical sectors, stating unequivocally that he would “swear by God” to vote for Radda if elections were held today.
He said, “He has done an excellent job—an excellent job. Katsina is working again.”
According to Mallam Bature, Governor Radda’s most significant achievement is the administration’s unwavering commitment to accountability.
“Every kobo spent is accounted for—from salaries to contracts,” he explained. “You cannot begin a new project until you close the accounts on the last one. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is active, and due process is strictly followed.”
Bature compared Radda’s governance style to that of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, known for his discipline and grassroots connection.
Mallam Bature also applauded Radda’s interventions to mitigate economic hardship in the state.
He specifically praised the “Rumbu Sobe” initiative—a state-supported, subsidised market system where staple foods such as rice and spaghetti are sold at significantly lower prices.
“Rice that costs ₦2,000 in the open market is sold for ₦700 at these government shops. Spaghetti goes for ₦300 instead of ₦1,000,” he said. “It’s like a flea market, but better—and it is consistent across every local government.”
He noted that Katsina’s agricultural economy and proximity to Niger Republic also help cushion the state against soaring national food prices.
Bature said he was particularly impressed by the administration’s merit-based scholarship scheme, which has sent more than 500 Katsina students abroad to study in countries such as Egypt, Jordan, and China.
“No favoritism. If you don’t pass the exams, you don’t go—even if you’re a big man’s son,” he said. “Selections were made from even the local Islamic schools, proving that meritocracy is now the standard.”
Bature emphasized that security remains an area requiring further investment.
“The government recruited 2,000 personnel, and it has helped,” he said. “But we need even more collaboration with federal agencies. Security is everyone’s business, not just government’s,” he added.
He stressed that improved security would bolster farming, trading, and overall economic activities in rural areas.
Mallam Bature lauded Governor Radda’s commitment to reviving local government administration, describing it as a vital foundation for state-wide development.
“The moment local governments work, education grows, and the economy improves,” he said. “Governor Radda understands this very well, having once been a local government chairman and national ALGON president.”
He also commended the governor’s support for local government autonomy, noting that it has strengthened grassroots development initiatives.
Addressing public sentiment towards the administration, Bature expressed confidence that Governor Radda has earned the trust of the people through visible developmental projects and transparent governance.
“The government is spending on real development, not hoarding money. That’s what people want to see,” he said. “Even though no administration is perfect, this one is responsive—and that counts.”
Drawing comparisons with previous administrations, Bature asserted that Governor Radda is carrying forward former President Yar’Adua’s disciplined, people-centred governance style.
“He checks prices himself to prevent inflated contracts and ensures timely payment of contractors and workers. That’s the kind of leadership Nigeria needs—leadership that acts, not just talks,” Bature said.
“I urge every citizen to continue supporting Governor Radda. When the time comes, we should vote him back into office for a second term. As for me, my family, and everyone within my sphere of influence, Governor Dikko Umar Radda has our votes. Together, we can make Katsina even greater,” he added.
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