The Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to stop misleading Nigerians about the country’s condition, warning that insecurity is preventing farmers from accessing their farmlands while economic challenges persist.
The monarch made the remarks during a visit to his palace in Katsina State by Senator Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari, Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
In a Hausa-language video of the meeting, Usman urged Yari to communicate the realities facing ordinary Nigerians to political leaders rather than allow partisan interests to overshadow the country’s challenges.
“Director-General, you are now in a position of leadership. This is not just about this place; it concerns the entire country. We are all children of this nation, and we must stand for the truth,” the Emir said.
He stressed that political leaders should prioritise citizens’ welfare, tackle insecurity and create conditions that enable Nigerians to earn a living.
Emir Warns Against Political Dishonesty
Usman criticised political conduct driven by false claims and attempts to undermine opponents, arguing that public engagement should focus on addressing national challenges.
He said politics should be based on dialogue, consultation and persuasion rather than hostility or efforts to discredit rivals.
“What is politics? You convince me to accept your conviction. You must be wise enough to listen to what I have to say or consider my point of view. That is politics. It is not fighting or condemning others,” he said.
The monarch questioned why political actors appeared more focused on attacking one another than cooperating to address Nigeria’s problems.
He also invoked religious teachings, urging public officials to place the interests of others above personal ambition and material gain.
Usman warned that leaders should not assume they would escape the consequences of treating others unfairly. He called for greater accountability and genuine concern for the people they serve.
Insecurity Prevents Farmers From Accessing Farmlands
The Emir expressed concern that insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria was preventing farmers from freely accessing their farmlands, threatening livelihoods and agricultural production.
“Why are we drifting apart? Farmers have been prevented from carrying out their activities,” he said.
He urged political leaders to take practical steps to restore security and protect rural communities whose livelihoods have been disrupted by threats and violence.
The monarch’s comments highlight concerns about the impact of insecurity on farming and the economic well-being of communities that depend on agriculture.
Katsina Emir Raises Concerns Over Industrial Decline
Usman also lamented the decline of industrial establishments in Kaduna State, citing the DIC and Peugeot company as examples of businesses whose fortunes should concern political leaders and regional stakeholders.
“If you go to Kaduna, look at the DIC and the Peugeot company. Where are they now? They have all collapsed. Why?” he asked.
“We have to speak. We have to speak. We must stand up and take action.”
The Emir called on traditional rulers, politicians and other influential figures to speak out and take action on insecurity, economic difficulties and other challenges affecting Nigerians.
Yari, a former Zamfara State governor and serving senator, is leading the APC Presidential Campaign Council’s preparations for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
The meeting placed the monarch’s concerns about insecurity, farmers’ access to land and industrial decline before a senior figure in the ruling party’s campaign structure.
