By Ahmed Ahmed
Groups under the auspices of Lawyers for the Cause of Bauchi (LAWBA) Bauchi Gari Ya Waye Group, and the Bauchi State Chapter of the Human Rights Community in Nigeria (HURICON) has criticise the withdrawal of traditional titles from individuals who have disagreed with Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.
Usamat Kabir Adam Esq read the statement at a joint press conference held to address the state of affairs in Bauchi State at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Bauchi press Center on Friday.
He cited instances where title holders were removed or suspended apparently at the behest of the PDP-led administration.
“They noted that this has led to a loss of public trust and confidence in the traditional institution,” he said
The groups expressed deep concern over the handling of financial interventions and support packages by the Governor Bala Mohammed-led administration,
“Which they claim has been marred by abuse of power, politicization of the traditional institution, and lack of transparency and accountability.
The groups also raised questions about the distribution of fertilizers and state funds, citing a lack of transparency and accountability.
“They asked why the government admitted to receiving 70 trucks of fertilizers only after whistleblowers exposed the fact, and why the distribution of the fertilizers commenced just a day or two before the local government election.
The groups concluded that Bauchi State is facing a leadership crisis, characterized by a tolerance for little or no opposing views, a preference for playing blame games over showing transparency and accountability, and misplaced priorities.
They however urged the leadership to adjust to the reality on the ground and address the concerns of the citizens.
The groups reiterated that the conference was a call to action, urging the citizens of Bauchi State to hold their leaders accountable and demanding transparency and accountability in governance.
The groups emphasised that Bauchi State belongs to all its citizens, and it is time for the leadership to prioritize their needs and concerns.