2015: We have defeated opponents of zoning – Gov Aliyu

From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

The Niger state governor Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu has said that those working against zoning arrangement in the state have conceded to superior arguments, adding that they are already working with Zone C for the 2015 governorship race.

Aliyu, who made statement in his address, when 14 female aspirants, canvassing for elective positions, paid a courtesy visit to him at his residence in Minna yesterday.

He said he was delighted women in Niger state have braved all odds to seek for elective positions, saying they must however observe the zoning arrangements which affects all elective positions in the state.

“I am an advocate of zoning formula in Niger state. If not for the zoning arrangement, maybe I wouldn’t be governor today. We have defeated most of the opponents of the existing zoning arrangement in the state but some are still against it but I am happy they are yielding already. Whatever position you are looking for, we must stick with thezoning arrangement.”

He expressed happiness that women are participating in politics, adding that there was the need for women to continue to vie for elective position adding that it will promote girl child education, ensure gender balance and reduce negative impression against women in politics.

Governor Aliyu noted that women have done very well in his administration since 2007, that those who have served as ministers since he assumed office as governor have made the state proud. He also applauded the achievements of women in his cabinet.

The governor therefore expressed optimism that the 14 women will compete favorably well in the primaries and at the polls saying they are qualified academically and administratively to occupy elective positions of their choice.

In her remarks, the leader of the 14 female aspirants, Hajiya Hauwa Usman, thanked the governor, for assisting women in the state to actualized their ambitions in the state., noting that the present administration has recorded the highest number of women in sensitive positions since the inception of Niger state.