RIGHT OF REPLY: SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON THE CLAIMS MADE BY IBRAHIM A. JOMBALI AND THE SO-CALLED SPOKESMAN OF MAIDOKI’S SUPPORTERS.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline
Northern Bureau Chief
July 18, 2026
The article titled “From a Bridge Builder to Becoming the Bridge: APC’s Growing Appeal Under Governor Idris” written by Ibrahim A. Jombali is nothing more than political propaganda carefully crafted to create a false impression that the people of Kebbi State have overwhelmingly embraced the APC administration. It is unfortunate that instead of presenting verifiable facts, the writer chose exaggeration, misinformation, and political praise singing.
First, the claim that over 10,000 supporters of the ADC and PDP defected to the APC raises serious questions. Anyone who attended or closely observed the event could see that the venue itself could not accommodate such a number. There were visibly many empty seats inside the hall. It is therefore difficult to understand how such a figure was arrived at.
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The people of Kebbi deserve truthful information, not inflated statistics designed to create artificial political momentum.
Equally misleading is the claim by one Bello Doya, who purported to speak on behalf of Senator Garba Musa Maidoki’s supporters. Bello Doya neither represents nor has the mandate to speak for the supporters of Senator Garba Musa Maidoki. His personal political decision should not be presented as the collective position of thousands of loyal supporters across Kebbi State. The overwhelming majority of Senator Maidoki’s supporters remain firmly committed to him and will continue to support his political journey.
Rather than investing time in attacking Senator Garba Musa Maidoki, the Kebbi State Government should focus on explaining to the people how the huge allocations and grants received from the Federal Government have translated into meaningful improvements in their daily lives. The citizens deserve transparency and accountability regarding the utilization of public funds.
Security remains one of the greatest concerns facing Kebbi State today. Families across several communities have experienced tragic losses due to insecurity. Many citizens continue to express concern over the safety of lives and property. Instead of political celebrations and endless publicity campaigns, the government should prioritize restoring peace and protecting the lives of its people.
It is also disappointing that Senator Garba Musa Maidoki continues to be the target of unnecessary political attacks. Is he the only politician in Kebbi State? Why is so much attention devoted to undermining his efforts instead of promoting healthy democratic competition? Democracy thrives on the free participation of all political actors without intimidation or obstruction.
The people of Kebbi have not forgotten Senator Garba Musa Maidoki’s efforts to attract development to the state. His attempts to provide hospital beds and support the renovation of healthcare facilities were widely acknowledged by many residents. Development initiatives that benefit ordinary citizens should be encouraged irrespective of political affiliation, not frustrated because of partisan interests.
The repeated claim that Governor Nasir Idris has united the APC also deserves scrutiny. Reports of disagreements over candidate selection and dissatisfaction among party stakeholders suggest that all may not be well within the ruling party. These are issues that deserve honest engagement rather than attempts to portray an image of complete unity.
Employment opportunities are important, and every job created deserves recognition. However, after three years in office, many citizens believe much more is expected from a government entrusted with managing the resources of an entire state. Beyond employment figures, the people are interested in broader economic opportunities, improved security, quality healthcare, better education, and sustainable development.
Senator Garba Musa Maidoki has consistently demonstrated resilience throughout his political career. Those who once claimed he had no political structure were proven wrong when he won election to the Senate. Today, despite political obstacles, he remains a respected leader with widespread grassroots support. His decision to pursue his political ambition under the ADC reflects his democratic right, and ultimately it is the people—not political propaganda—that will determine the outcome of the 2027 elections.
Political campaigns should be based on ideas, policies, and measurable achievements, not personal attacks or manufactured narratives. The people of Kebbi State are politically aware and capable of distinguishing between genuine public support and carefully staged political events.
We therefore urge political commentators, government officials, and party spokespersons to uphold truth, fairness, and integrity in public discourse. Democracy is strengthened by honest debate, respect for opposing views, and accountability to the people.
Finally, we call on all political actors to promote peace and avoid inflammatory rhetoric. Kebbi State belongs to all of us, regardless of political affiliation. The future of our state will be built through unity, transparency, responsible leadership, and the collective will of its people—not through propaganda or attempts to silence political opponents.
Signed:
Alhaji Kabiru Ahmed Musa
President, Kebbi State Concerned Citizens.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JULY 18TH 2026)
