The political landscape of Kaduna Central Senatorial District is rife with tension as Senator Lawal Usman faces accusations of non-performance and threats of recall from the Kaduna Elders Forum (KEF). The KEF, led by Inuwa Rigasa, has publicly criticized Usman, alleging a failure to deliver on campaign promises and a detrimental impact on peace within the state. They cite the Senator’s alleged silence and inaction regarding the economic hardships faced by his constituents as justification for their demand for his recall, claiming such inaction is unprecedented in the history of senatorial representation in the state.
Senator Usman, however, has vehemently refuted these claims, dismissing the KEF’s accusations as “laughable” and “infantile outbursts.” Through his Senior Special Assistant, Segun Olatunji, Usman released a statement characterizing the KEF’s actions as politically motivated and driven by “selfish interests of some unserious politicians.” He argues that the KEF, or its sponsors, have engaged in similar recall threats in the past, operating under different names such as the Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum (KPTF), and that their current efforts are merely a rehash of previous failed attempts. He maintains that his focus remains on his legislative duties and that he won’t be distracted by these politically charged accusations.
The Senator’s response goes beyond mere dismissal of the KEF’s claims. He questions the group’s integrity, accusing them of serving the interests of their sponsors rather than the people of Kaduna Central. He urges his constituents to be wary of the KEF’s “lies,” asserting that the group lacks the moral standing to claim concern for the welfare of the constituency. Usman emphasizes his commitment to his constituents by highlighting a list of accomplishments achieved during his 18-month tenure.
Usman’s list of achievements includes substantial investments in education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment initiatives. He cites the provision of 100 smart primary school buildings, scholarships, boreholes for potable water, and solar lights as evidence of his commitment to improving the living conditions of his constituents. Furthermore, he points to entrepreneurial training programs for farmers, sponsorship of students for WAEC and UTME (JAMB) examinations, business startup capital for 500 beneficiaries, payment of registration fees for 1000 tertiary institution students, and training programs for women in soap making and fish farming as further demonstrations of his dedication to empowering the people of Kaduna Central.
Beyond constituency-specific initiatives, Senator Usman also highlights his contributions at the national level. He mentions his successful motion to expedite the reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressway, a project of significant importance to the region and the nation as a whole. He also emphasizes his legislative work, noting four crucial motions and four bills that are currently in their third reading stages, further underscoring his active participation in the Senate’s legislative process. These achievements, he argues, directly contradict the KEF’s allegations of non-performance and demonstrate his commitment to serving both his constituents and the nation.
In concluding his response, Senator Usman appeals for calm among his constituents, urging them to disregard the KEF’s recall threat and treat it with the “disdain it deserves.” He portrays the KEF’s actions as a desperate attempt to undermine his work and distract him from his legislative duties. By highlighting his accomplishments and questioning the KEF’s motives, Usman seeks to reassure his constituents of his commitment to their welfare and solidify his position as their representative in the Senate. The ongoing dispute between Senator Usman and the KEF reflects the complexities and tensions within the political landscape of Kaduna Central, leaving the constituents to assess the competing narratives and determine the future of their representation.
