Uba Sani

I would like to start by expressing my profound admiration for your work. I must admit that I have always been a great fan of yours, appreciating your leadership skills and vision more than any politician in Kaduna State.

Your impressive work ethic, policy foresight, demonstrated competence, and ability to resist criticism and implement what you consider the right thing earned you a place in my heart.

(Un)fortunately, I’m not the kind of fan who always praises his favourites and considers any criticism an attempt to discredit his master.

Sir, your recent actions, remarks, and holier-than-thou attitude have led some to speculate that you are suffering from Out-of-Office syndrome. However, I prefer not to believe them.

In your recent interview with Arise TV,  you said things that, had I not watched the interview, I would have dismissed as typical political propaganda.

Firstly, you defined “friendship” as  “someone that has the fidelity to some ethical and moral standards, and will be there for you when you need him, not when it’s time to party or enjoy.”

Of course, I agree with you to some extent. However, in this context, are you suggesting that you prioritise loyalty over accountability, even if it means ignoring the concerns of those who elected you?

I believe that, by your definition of “friendship,” Uba Sani should prioritise being a “friend “ to the people of Kaduna who are struggling to get a meal due to these “economic reforms “ (which you said you supported and are the right orthodox policies…) rather than showing loyalty to his predecessor.

In your interview with Charles, you mentioned that the Late Yar’adua invited you to join his cabinet, an offer you declined. This remark reminded me of another instance in which you used his death as a mocking tool to brag about your resilience.

Your allegations against Nuhu Ribadu and his subsequent response reveal a lot about your dynamics with him. They raise questions about who has maintained the values of true friendship and who has not. I won’t elaborate further.

Sir, as you are probably approaching the last decade of your active political career, I would advise you to focus on nurturing your private life (considering your frequent references to prioritising it) rather than investing time and energy in making new (or perceived) enemies.

Do not dwell too much on criticism and allegations; do what Kwankwaso did: allow your track record to speak for you.

Lastly, may your famous political slogan — “MURUS” — not be used against you.

Best regards,

Ukasha Sani Idris

Facebook: Ukasha a Kofarnassarawa.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has issued a 7-day ultimatum to Kaduna Electric and threatened to withdraw its services entirely due to ongoing disputes, including the issuance of ‘service no longer required’ notices to several affected staff members.

Despite intervention from the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, the situation remains unresolved and left employees and the public in a state of uncertainty.

The NUEE has made it clear that unless their concerns are addressed within the stipulated timeframe, they will take further action.

The potential withdrawal of services could result in power outages affecting residents across Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto states, who are already bracing for another possible blackout.

As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Kaduna Electric and the state government to find a resolution before the situation escalates.

By Ukasha Sani Idris

Recently, strange “activism “ by former governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai on his social media platformshas reaffirmed the rumor that he’s no longer on good terms with his successor, the current governor of Kaduna State.

On X (formerly Twitter), El-Rufai responded to a follower’s claim that he would be arrested if he returned to Nigeria.

Malam responded by saying, “ …Your post below refers. I have been hearing these same rumors of arrest, detention and torture in some dungeon in the NSA’s office (where Emefiele was allegedly tortured to resign as CBN governor), since July 2024 when the so-called report of the Kaduna Assembly began circulating…”

El-Rufai VS His benefactors

This development has sparked renewed interest in El-Rufai’s history of betraying his benefactors. Farooq Kperogi’s August 2023 column highlighted El-Rufai’s “serial betrayals,” noting that he turned against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who brought him into the national spotlight, and later betrayed former President Obasanjo. In it, he mentioned:

“Of course, El-Rufai later betrayed Obasanjo—and everybody else that has propelled his career or extended favors to him.”

“El-Rufai seems congenitally incapable of being loyal to people who feather his aspirations. “

“What’s happening to El-Rufai now actually pales in comparison to the depth of his serial betrayals of his benefactors. It’s a case of live by the sword, die by the sword.”

Who is the biggest casualty?

When Madina Maishanu questioned Bello El-Rufai on BBC Hausa about the current feud between his father and former boss, the worry lines suddenly appeared on his face. Still, he tried to maintain a neutral stance and replied, “It’s not most desirable, but it’s part of life. Couples divorce. Friends fall out…”

When pressed on whether he would mediate a reconciliation between them, he stated that it is not his responsibility to mediate between his father and Governor Uba Sani; his responsibility is Kaduna North.

He also reaffirmed that Uba Sani is still his boss after reemphasising his strong bond with his father.

Where is Dadiyata?

In another response to the same diehard fan, Malam wrote:

“Be careful, Imran @IU_Wakilii……the Kaduna Kidnapping Team (I will reveal this next week, in sha Allah) will either try implementing the Danbilki Commander (abduct, whip and then offer money) or the Bashir Saidu (abduct and imprison) treatment on you. Please keep away from Kaduna and stay safe wherever you are.”

MALAM shouldn’t only reveal the “Kidnapping Team” without telling us when and how it started and the architect behind this torture, perhaps his information would take us back to Dadiyata’s abduction that occurred when he was the sitting governor of the state where Dadiyata was abducted.

Life Lesson:

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

1. El-Rufai’s recent social media outbursts seem to be a reflection of his own bitter experiences. Many are suggesting that he’s facing the consequences of his own actions.
2. If the biological son of MALAM can maintain a neutral stance, at least in our view regarding this matter, why are the sons and daughters of “Nobody” so eagerly rushing to inherit other people’s feud?

I cherish the virtues of honour, respect, and integrity; however, I am in no way justifying betrayal and distrust. I also pray I never find joy in someone’s downfall.

Ukasha Kofarnassarawa wrote via ukasha_sani@yahoo.com.

By Safiyanu Ladan 

The Kaduna State government recently announced that it has entered a peace deal with notorious bandits, particularly in the Birnin Gwari and Giwa Local Government Areas. The aim of the deal is to end banditry in the region. This development is a positive step forward.

For years, bandits have wreaked havoc on local communities, resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions. Their actions have severely disrupted the socioeconomic activities of these areas.

According to the government, the peace deal is yielding positive results. Relative stability has returned to the affected regions. A cattle market that had been closed for decades has resumed operations, and residents can now go about their daily activities without constant fear of attacks or kidnappings.

However, although relative peace has been observed in the northern part of the state over the past few months, the situation in the southern part is significantly different. Recently, residents of Anguwan Ate in Kachia Local Government Area have staged protests due to the ongoing attacks and kidnappings carried out by bandits.

The resurgence of kidnappings in certain areas of the state following the peace deal is concerning. The government and other stakeholders involved in brokering this peace agreement need to reassess the situation and address any existing loopholes to prevent an escalation of violence.

Safiyanu Ladan wrote from Kaduna.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former members of the Kaduna State Executive Council (2015-2023) have vehemently rejected corruption allegations leveled against them by the Uba Sani-led administration.

In a statement released on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, the ex-officials described the accusations as a politically motivated smear campaign.

The controversy stems from a report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which claims that N423 billion went missing under the leadership of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The report, which was first issued in June 2024, resurfaced this week, with some media outlets treating it as “breaking news.”

However, the former officials insist that they debunked the allegations in June and July of 2024, proving that the claims lack credibility.

According to the ex-officials, many of the loans listed in the report were not acquired during their administration, while others were disbursed after their tenure.

They further argue that certain loans were double-counted, and even a railway loan that was never contracted was included in the accusations.

In their statement, the former officials dismissed the idea that 40% of Kaduna’s earnings over eight years simply disappeared.

“Only those inclined to fiction can believe such a claim,” they remarked.

They also accused Governor Uba Sani’s administration of misrepresenting El-Rufai-era achievements, including projects funded by the AGILE initiative, the World Bank CARES infrastructure program, and the RAAMP roads program, all of which were initiated under El-Rufai’s tenure but are now being credited to Sani.

Beyond the allegations, the former officials claim that the Uba Sani government is targeting El-Rufai’s allies.

They cited the cases of Bashir Saidu and Jimi Lawal, both of whom have allegedly been detained unlawfully despite fulfilling bail conditions.

Furthermore, the government has reportedly blocked their release through administrative measures, including suspending land verification services.

The former officials argue that the real aim of these actions is to tarnish El-Rufai’s political legacy.

They contend that since the N423 billion claim remains unproven, the Sani administration is using media propaganda and criminal charges to create the illusion of corruption.

The statement concluded by highlighting the accomplishments of El-Rufai’s administration, including significant increases in Kaduna’s internally generated revenue (from N13 billion in 2015 to N58 billion in 2022), public service reforms, and key infrastructure projects.

“We will not be silenced,” the former officials declared. “We will continue to defend our legacy and expose this smokescreen of deceit.”

By Anwar Usman

The Kaduna State Government has approved N548 million to the Nigeria Union of Teachers Endwell Fund, resolving a long time dispute between the state government and the union.

The dispute, which had been ongoing for several years, was resolved following the intervention of the state governor, Uba Sani, who directed the immediate release of the funds to the NUT.

The acting Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board, Mubarak Mohammed, made this known at a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday.

He said, “I am pleased to announce that Governor Uba Sani has successfully resolved the long-standing dispute between the Kaduna State Government and the NUT regarding the NUT Endwell Fund”.

The NUT Endwell Fund is a statutory deductions from teachers’ salaries, aimed at supporting them during service and retirement.

Mohammed further explained that the dispute was resolved as a result of a series of negotiations between the state government and the NUT.

“Under the agreement, all litigation related to the NUT Endwell Fund will be discontinued, and the sum of N548 million will be released to the NUT to manage the Endwell Fund independently,” he said.

He further revealed that the NUT Endwell Scheme will undergo a structural reform to ensure improved efficiency and accountability.

He said, “Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to education and teacher welfare has been evident since his assumption of office in May 2023.According to the chairman SUBEB, the resolution of the dispute is expected to reinvigorate the relationship between the Kaduna State Government and the NUT and to enhance the overall quality of education in the state.

“This resolution paves the way for a renewed, cordial relationship between the Kaduna State Government, the NUT, and the teachers of Kaduna State,” Mohammed said.

The resolution of the dispute has been welcomed by the NUT, which has commended the governor for his intervention.

The Chairman of the NUT in Kaduna State, Ibrahim Dalhatu, acknowledged that the released N548m would surely improve the welfare of teachers in the state.

He also expressed their gratitude to Governor Uba Sani.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to wipe out poverty in Nigeria.

Sani made this known at a town hall meeting and sensitization event on Tuesday in Kaduna for the N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund and Loans Scheme for SSMEs, which the Federal Government organised in collaboration with the Bank of Industry.

He was represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Mr Ibrahim Muhammad.

He said the fund, which includes the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme and loan options for MSMEs, is designed to boost Nigeria’s economy by empowering local entrepreneurs.

“This massive presidential initiative is proof that President Tinubu is a listening leader.

“Through these stimulus packages, small businesses and manufacturing enterprises will be revitalized, significantly benefiting both sub-national economies and Nigeria as a whole.”

He also emphasised the importance of MSMEs in driving job creation, innovation, and economic resilience, noting that Kaduna’s government is committed to fostering a supportive business environment.

The governor praised the timing of the fund, calling it a valuable support for Kaduna State’s ongoing efforts to boost the local economy, create jobs, and encourage entrepreneurial growth.

He urged all stakeholders to spread awareness of the initiative to maximize its impact.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Caroline Bala, one of the grant beneficiaries, expressed gratitude for the financial assistance that enabled her to start a soya milk business after she lost her previous job.

Bala said her business has been thriving, with daily earnings between 10,000 to 15,000 Naira.

She urged the organisers to sustain the initiative and ensure that deserving citizens continue to benefit from the grant, which she described as a life-changing opportunity.

Another beneficiary, Mr Albert Ibrahim, said he utilised the grant to purchase herbicides for his farm, resulting in a bumper harvest.

He expressed hope that others would also have the chance to benefit from this scheme.

Similarly, Summayya Ibrahim thanked the government for the support, adding that she looked forward to more assistance to enable broader outreach to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Muktar Aliyu, a cartoonist, said he used his grant to purchase specialised software to enhance his creative work.

He also appreciated the scheme, noting that it has greatly impacted his career.

Additionally, Mrs. Joy Oghiadomhe of the Bank of Industry outlined the eligibility criteria for both the grant and loan schemes, emphasizing the administration’s intent to tackle economic challenges through MSMEs as a key sector for development.

By Suleiman Usman

Is our democracy sinking so low that few truly grasp the seriousness and future impact of what happened today in our beloved Kaduna State? Let’s be clear: there was no actual election in Kaduna State on the 19th of October 2024.

What happened sets a dangerous example that has wholly destroyed democracy in the state. Governor Uba Sani, a self-proclaimed Hero of Democracy, oversaw this tragedy disguised as an election. This is not just a disappointment but a calamity of epic proportions. 

Although I have friends running for positions, mainly from the APC, that I supported, hoping for a fair election, I cannot stay silent or be part of this open robbery, political deceit, and the destruction of what little respect remains in our weak democracy. I refuse to accept any of those wrongly declared (as chairmen and councillors) through this unfair process, regardless of our friendship. 

How can those wrongly elected people comfortably assume these roles without feeling guilt or shame? If what happened in Kaduna is seen as democracy, then we are facing something worse than slavery. 

Many in the government are unhappy about this but remain silent for their ‘daily bread.’ But is life solely about sustenance and comfort? Should we tacitly condone this heinous act to safeguard our livelihoods? Do we even think about what message we are sending our children by staying silent in such situations, especially those of us who claim to be educated?

Since stepping down as the National Chairman of the Youth Party (YP) and joining the APC, I have chosen not to comment on political matters, especially in Kaduna State. But after today, any Nigerian hoping for a better future will be deeply disappointed. There was no actual election in Kaduna; we cannot ignore this. 

We will do everything within the law to push for a change in this sham of an election. I challenge anyone with a conscience to accept or celebrate what happened in Kaduna today as a legitimate election.

I know many may question my stance. But when discussing a better nation with a firm and fair democracy, what we saw in Kaduna today was never part of that vision. I understand the consequences that may affect my actions. 

As a Sociologist, I have been trained to be impartial and address issues for the betterment of society rather than individuals. As a Muslim, I am obligated to rectify wrongs through my actions, words, or silent disapproval. I, therefore, owe nobody any apology for being blunt in this enterprise.

Suleiman Usman Yusuf wrote from Kaduna, Nigeria.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has revealed that N4.7 billion is being deducted from the state government’s federal allocation each month to pay off debts he inherited. 

He said, “In Kaduna, we are paying N4.7 billion in debt every month; go and check and see our allocation. You will agree with me that we started paying this debt in June 2023. Currently, what we are receiving is about N8 billion, while we should be receiving around N12 billion compared to what other states are getting within Northern Nigeria. 

“We are trying our best to manage what we have. Yes, I agree with you that governance is about reducing costs. Since I became governor, I have maintained that we have not purchased a single vehicle for anyone—whether myself, the Deputy Governor, or my commissioners. We have also reduced the performance bonuses and salaries of our commissioners and the Deputy Governor. Today, I am only receiving half of my salary because we have to make sacrifices, considering the challenges we face. 

“People may ask about our IGR (Internally Generated Revenue). Our IGR account is with Zenith Bank; you can check it. Every month, Zenith Bank deducts about N800 million at source because I inherited that debt.” 

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Kaduna State Security Council under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, after a thorough review of the security situation in Kaduna and Zaria towns and environs, has unanimously agreed to relax the 24-hour curfew earlier imposed on Monday 4th August 2024.

By this review, the curfew will now be in effect from 6pm to 8am daily. This implies that citizens may move freely and carry out their legitimate activities between 8am and 6pm, and will revert to the curfew from 6pm to 8am

The Kaduna State Security Council reiterates its total commitment to the peace and security of the State, and will continue to take all steps deemed necessary for their preservation.

Furthermore, the security forces will continue to vigorously enforce the curfew from 6pm to 8am, and will be decisive in confronting actions which may lead to a breakdown of law and order during periods of movement as well as restriction.