Nigerians Urged To Scrutinise State Governors And Lawmakers, Sparking Debate.
Former Senator Shehu Sani has called on Nigerians to hold their state governors, senators, and representatives accountable, rather than focusing solely on President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The statement, posted on his verified X account to mark the second anniversary of Tinubu’s presidency, has ignited a lively debate across the country.
Sani, who served as senator for Kaduna Central from 2015 to 2019, encouraged citizens to evaluate the performance of their local and state leaders, including members of the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly. In his post, he wrote, “I have read a lot of positive and negative comments about the two years of President Tinubu. Please, be courageous enough to also write about the governor of your state, the senator and members of the House of Representatives and state House of Assembly members representing you. I know that some of them have online bullies and thugs who know your addresses, but just be bold to express your opinion. That’s your right.”
The call for broader accountability was met with widespread approval from many Nigerians, who praised Sani for highlighting the need to scrutinise all levels of government. Supporters argue that state governors and lawmakers often escape public scrutiny despite wielding significant influence over local policies and resources. “It’s a fair point,” said Tunde Adebayo, a Lagos-based civil servant. “We can’t keep blaming the President for everything when our governors are mismanaging funds right under our noses.”
However, the statement also drew criticism from those who believe Sani’s remarks were an attempt to shift attention away from the Federal Government’s perceived shortcomings. Critics contend that President Tinubu, as the head of the executive arm, bears ultimate responsibility for national policy and governance. “The President sets the tone for the country,” argued Chika Okeke, a trader in Abuja. “If things aren’t working at the top, how can we expect state governments to perform miracles?”
Sani’s comments come at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic challenges, including rising inflation and fuel prices, which have fuelled public discontent. While some view his intervention as a timely reminder of the shared responsibility of governance, others see it as a deflection from the Federal Government’s struggles.
The debate underscores the complexities of Nigeria’s political landscape, where accountability remains a pressing issue at both state and federal levels. As citizens continue to voice their opinions online and offline, Sani’s call for courage in holding leaders to account has struck a chord, prompting renewed discussions about the role of every tier of government in addressing the nation’s challenges.
