RIGHT OF REPLY TO THE STATEMENT ISSUED BY AHMED IDRIS, CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR OF KEBBI STATE.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief June 26, 2026.
Our attention has been drawn to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Kebbi State, Ahmed Idris, in response to the interview granted by the Senator representing Kebbi South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Garba Musa Maidoki, regarding the circumstances surrounding the APC senatorial ticket.
Ordinarily, such a statement would deserve little attention. However, because it contains claims that seek to mislead the public and portray an inaccurate picture of the security situation and internal democratic processes in Kebbi State, it has become necessary to set the record straight.
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As the official spokesman of the Governor, Ahmed Idris owes the people of Kebbi State a duty to communicate facts with honesty, fairness, and professionalism.
Unfortunately, his repeated attempts to defend every action of the Governor at all costs have undermined public confidence in government communication. A Press Secretary should serve the public with credible information, not political propaganda.
First, the assertion that Senator Garba Musa Maidoki fabricated concerns about insecurity is unfair and inconsistent with the realities experienced daily by many communities across Kebbi State. The persistent attacks, kidnappings, and killings in parts of Kebbi South and other areas remain matters of public concern.
If the Government believes insecurity has been defeated, how does it explain the following incidents repeatedly reported by residents?
1. The recent kidnapping of the wife and child of a prominent political figure in Yauri.
2. The abduction of the daughter of another respected community leader in Koko shortly after the Yauri incident.
3. The kidnapping and killing of the former APC Chairman of Koko Local Government and his companion by armed bandits.
4. Numerous attacks on rural communities, where innocent citizens have lost their lives and many families have been displaced.
These painful incidents demonstrate that security challenges remain serious and should not be dismissed for political convenience.
Ahmed Idris also claimed that farmers have returned safely to their farms and villages. While some areas may have witnessed relative improvement, many communities continue to live in fear. Many farmers still struggle to cultivate their lands because of the threat of bandit attacks.
Public officials should acknowledge these challenges instead of creating an impression that normalcy has completely returned across the state.
Regarding the APC senatorial ticket, many party members and political observers have expressed the view that the process did not reflect genuine internal democracy. There are widespread opinions that there was no transparent and competitive primary election in Kebbi State and that the wishes of party members were not allowed to prevail.
Whether one agrees or disagrees with this view, dismissing these concerns without addressing them only deepens public distrust.
Furthermore, it is difficult to argue that the Governor played no role in determining the outcome of the party’s internal process. In Nigerian politics, Governors are widely regarded as influential stakeholders within their respective parties.
Therefore, it is reasonable for party members to question the extent of executive influence in candidate selection.
Rather than attacking Senator Maidoki for raising legitimate concerns about insecurity, the Government should focus on providing lasting solutions to the problems facing the people. Citizens expect leadership that prioritizes the protection of lives and property above political image management.
Constructive criticism is an essential part of democracy. Responding to criticism with personal attacks instead of addressing the issues does not strengthen public confidence in government.
Ahmed Idris should remember that the office of Chief Press Secretary is not merely a political office; it is also a public trust. Professionalism requires objectivity, respect for differing opinions, and accurate communication with the public. Continuous attempts to dismiss every criticism against the Government risk doing more damage to the Governor’s reputation than the criticism itself.
The people of Kebbi State deserve truthful information, transparent governance, and sincere efforts to tackle insecurity. No amount of public relations can replace effective leadership or erase the suffering of victims of banditry.
History will judge every public official not by the number of press statements issued but by the impact of their service on the lives of ordinary citizens.
Signed;
Concerned Stakeholders for Good Governance in Kebbi State.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JUNE 25TH 2026)
