From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has urged politicians to differentiate between criticizing government policies and undermining the integrity of the country. He emphasized the importance of patriotism and warned against politicizing security issues for personal gain, particularly by those in opposition, asserting that national interests should take precedence over selfish ambitions.
Governor Sani made these remarks during a courtesy visit from senior directors of the Department of State Services (DSS) at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Friday. He expressed concern over the actions of some politicians who, under the guise of opposing government policies, tarnish the nation’s image in the media, labeling them as “anti-democratic forces.”
The governor pointed out that political office holders will eventually complete their terms and leave, but Nigeria will endure. “As a governor, you can criticize me; however, if you act in a way that incites disaffection, damages the country’s reputation, or disrupts the peace of Kaduna State, you are merely creating conflict,” he stated.
Reflecting on his history as a civil rights advocate, he quoted Chief Gani Fawehinmi, who used to remind activists to distinguish between the nation and its leaders. He noted that many current opposition politicians were absent during the struggles for democracy, which Nigerians now enjoy.
Governor Sani cautioned the elite not to exploit their privileged positions to jeopardize the security of the underserved, emphasizing that many have no real stake in the country. “If any crisis arises, those who live in luxury will escape abroad while the poor and vulnerable face the consequences,” he remarked.
He criticized those who, from the comfort of their air-conditioned homes, encourage the less privileged to protest while safeguarding their own families abroad. He stressed that undermining one’s country in the name of opposition is not just unpatriotic but sacrilegious, labeling such actions as the tactics of conflict merchants.
The governor pointed out that elites in affluent areas live peacefully together, regardless of religious differences, yet some exploit religion for political purposes. “They care little for the safety of the common man, which is truly unfortunate,” he said.
Describing these political elites as “insecurity merchants,” he urged them to stop politicizing security for their benefit.
“What matters to me is our state and its development. Politicians cannot divide us along religious lines. I have communicated clearly to all religious leaders that, whether we agree or not, God has placed us in Kaduna State, both Muslims and Christians. We must work together and embrace one another,” he stated.
“As a governor, I will never judge people based on their religion. I focus on character rather than religious affiliation,” he concluded.
Governor Sani also commended the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, as well as the heads of security agencies and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Ajayi, for their efforts in addressing the country’s security challenges.
