RIGHT OF REPLY
THE PEOPLE DESERVE MORE THAN POLITICAL RHETORIC: WHY KEBBI NEEDS REAL CHANGE IN 2027.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief
August 6th, 2026.
A Response to “Touching Lives Beyond Politics: Why Public Trust Is Governor Nasir Idris’ Greatest Political Capital” by Mustapha Ibrahim Birnin Kebbi.
The article titled “Touching Lives Beyond Politics: Why Public Trust Is Governor Nasir Idris’ Greatest Political Capital” presents an overwhelmingly positive assessment of the current administration in Kebbi State. While every citizen has the constitutional right to express support for a government, the article unfortunately paints only one side of the picture and overlooks the daily realities confronting many people across our state.
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Democracy flourishes when opinions are tested against facts and when citizens are free to offer alternative perspectives. Public trust cannot be proclaimed through newspaper articles; it must be reflected in the lived experiences of the people.
The writer repeatedly claims that Governor Nasir Idris has earned the confidence and love of the people of Kebbi State. Such a sweeping conclusion cannot represent the diverse opinions of millions of citizens. Across towns and villages, many residents continue to express concerns over economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and the slow pace of development in several communities. These voices deserve to be heard as much as those celebrating the government.
The article speaks of infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education, and rural development. However, many citizens are asking legitimate questions: Have these investments translated into meaningful improvements in their daily lives? Are farmers receiving adequate support in the face of rising production costs? Are young graduates finding employment opportunities? Are healthcare facilities and schools meeting the expectations of the people? These are important questions that cannot be dismissed with broad declarations of success.
More importantly, security remains one of the greatest concerns of many communities in Kebbi State. While efforts may have been made by government and security agencies, many residents still desire greater safety, protection, and peace. Security is the foundation upon which development is built, and citizens naturally expect continuous improvement in this critical area.
Similarly, the economic challenges confronting families across the state cannot be ignored. Rising costs of living and limited economic opportunities have placed enormous pressure on households and small businesses. These realities shape public opinion far more than political commentaries.
The author argues that continuity is the path to development. That is one perspective. Another legitimate democratic view is that meaningful progress sometimes requires a change in leadership and fresh ideas. Democracy is strengthened not by permanent political dominance but by healthy competition and accountability.
As Kebbi approaches the 2027 general elections, many citizens are openly discussing the need for political change. Increasingly, voices across the state are expressing support for a transition from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), believing that new leadership could offer a different direction for governance. Among the names frequently mentioned in public political discussions is Mallam Abubakar Malami, SAN, whose supporters believe possesses the experience and capacity to provide alternative leadership for Kebbi State. Ultimately, it is the electorate—not newspaper commentators—who will determine whether that vision gains majority support.
This debate should not be about personalities or political propaganda. It should focus on measurable improvements in the welfare of ordinary citizens. The true measure of any administration is not the number of glowing tributes written about it but the quality of life experienced by the people.
No government is above constructive criticism, just as no opposition should be denied the opportunity to present an alternative vision. Democracy gives citizens the right to compare records, assess promises, and choose the leadership they believe will best serve their interests.
As 2027 draws nearer, the people of Kebbi State will evaluate all political parties and all aspirants based on their records, their plans, and their ability to address the pressing challenges facing the state. Their decision will be made at the ballot box, where every vote carries equal weight.
The future of Kebbi belongs to its people. Their voices, their aspirations, and their democratic choices must remain supreme.
Signed:
Concerned Citizens for Democratic Change in Kebbi State.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER 5TH AUGUST, 2026)
