DEMOCRACY DAY: Gwaram LG Association Of Youth for Yielding Awareness Rates Jigawa Elected Officials

By Ali Rabi’u Ali Jigawa

Politics is a journey to progress and a better life. Today, Gwaram LG Association of Youth for Yielding Awareness (Gayya Ambassadors) use our democratic voice to rate our elected officials based on fairness and real accomplishments.

The time has now come when Jigawa State is on the fast track to greatness with the election of Dr Mal Umar A Namadi FCA, as the Executive Governor.The elected Governor is not only a frontline politician but an experienced technocrat and business notable in the country.

The citizens of Jigawa State have noted with considerable appreciation the fact that he has formed a formidable cabinet and group of advisers who are equal to the task ahead.Closely related to the above merit and capability are the prime parameters that guide the Appointment into key fort folios in the present Government. It is also noted with keen interest that Education, Agriculture, water resourcee, Rural and urban development, Commerce, civil servants, Health and security are receiving unprecedented attention they well deserved.

It is apparent that internal discipline in the way government is run in Jigawa State and the overriding principle of obey to elders and constituted authority are gradually being promoted as cardinal aspects of societal orientation.Secondly: In the past two years (2023 to date), Gwaram Local Government seems unrepresented in the Senate.

Comparing Jigawa Central to other senatorial districts, it’s like there’s no difference between having one and not having one – it’s like a soup that’s only savored by others. Are we lacking intelligence? Or experience politicians? Or is it because the value and challenges of the seat aren’t recognized?Whatever the reason, we hope the Jigawa central Senatorial seat will return to Gwaram LG in 2027.

Thirdly, Hon. Yusuf Shitu Galambi (Ajawan Dutse) is renowned for his effective leadership, people-centric approach, advocacy for Gwaram LG’s rights, development initiatives, women and youth empowerment, and tireless availability to constituents, earning him admiration and respect as a federal representative.

Politically Gayya Ambassadors observed that our State Member House of Assembly made a mistake by switching parties, due to unfulfilled campaign promises, such as:- Failing to bring development projects, economic growth, and improved welfare to his constituents, unlike his predecessors.- Not alleviating the people’s suffering or empathizing with their struggles.

Not engaging with his constituents to build love, understanding, and mutual respect.Perhaps these shortcomings led him to switch to the ruling party without consulting or advising his supporters, political allies, and the people who worked hard to get him elected.

This is clearly a failure in representation, especially for the youth. It’s a betrayal of leadership, especially in such a short time. It’s a lack of political integrity, especially considering the circumstances of his election (2023).Gayya Ambassadors is also shocked to see Malam Habibu Umar Basirka’s name (Mutumin Kirki) among the supervisory councillors of Gwaram LG, considering his Grade lavel in the LG government service.

Instead of appointing someone else, people from Basirka’s constituency would rejoice and feel proud, knowing everyone is being utilized effectively.Therefore, the people of Basirka Ward, Fagam Constituency, and Gwaram LG as a whole, interpret this appointment as nepotism, favoritism, and disregard for the people’s feelings, implying “if there’s hardship, they look for us, but if there’s benefit, it’s for insiders.”We must be cautious about who deserves our trust.

Who are those that, when given opportunities, claim it’s for everyone? Who are those with genuine interaction and empathy for us, not just when their needs are met?”Gayya Ambassadors congratulates Malam Hannafi Yakubu on becoming the Executive Secretary of Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). We pray that Allah guides him.

We hope he’ll utilize his youthful energy and opportunity to support His Excellency the Governor in serving Jigawa State citizens and become an exemplary leader, championing the rights of those he represents.Subsequently, it’s undeniable that Professor Salim Abdulrahman Lawan Isawa’s educational background and teaching experience significantly influenced his leadership style as Executive Chairman of Gwaram Local Government. Many agree that his tenure has surpassed his predecessor’s three-year term in several respects.

The local community values his achievements in education, religion, security, health, agriculture, electricity, infrastructure development, and creating a conducive business environment.

We commend His Excellency Mal Umar A Namadi FCA for recognizing Professor Salim’s potential and entrusting him with public responsibility. However, we respectfully advise the Honourable Chairman to exercise caution and consider additional administrative and political factors to build on the successes achieved so far.

We bring the following points to his attention:- Industrial Harmony: Maintaining a harmonious relationship with the eleven Councillors will accelerate development and minimize unnecessary politicization, promoting internal unity within the government.- Strategic Security Networking: Collaborating with community leaders, opinion leaders, and security formations is crucial to maintaining peace in Gwaram LG, given the general insecurity across the land.- Division of Labour: Inclusive governance involving major stakeholders will articulate and expand the scope of representative democracy, ensuring collective responsibility and preventing dictatorship. Public Address: Leaders must choose their words carefully, especially when interacting with the media, to avoid damaging their image and persona.

A recent statement by the Honourable Chairman has raised concerns about his political integrity.- Provision of Freedom of Information Bill: Adopting an open-door policy and allowing scrutiny of government affairs will promote transparency and accountability.

The financial position of the LG should be subject to scrutiny, and citizens should have access to vital information.- Inclusion of Politics and Politicians: Sidelining politics and politicians since Professor Salim’s assumption of power could undermine democracy and should not continue.Finally, we wish this government every success that will improve the lot of the common man and equally pray for the government Allah’s guidance.

Signed:Fatihu Adamu Kila. PhD Organizing Secretary Gayya Ambassadors 29th May 2025