Uba Sani Cautions Politicians Against Turning Security Into Politics

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has called on politicians to draw a line between offering fair criticism of government policies and actions that could threaten Nigeria’s unity and stability.

He made the statement on Friday at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna during a courtesy visit by top officials of the Department of State Services (DSS). The governor expressed concern that some opposition politicians were using security challenges to score political points, warning that such behaviour could harm the country.

Governor Sani noted that some political figures deliberately tarnish the image of the country under the guise of opposing government policies. He described such conduct as unhealthy for democracy and said those involved were acting against the interest of peace and national progress.

The governor reminded politicians that public offices are temporary, but the country remains permanent. He stated that while leaders can be criticised for their actions, it becomes dangerous when such criticism turns into behaviour capable of causing unrest or disunity in the state or country.

Recalling his years as a rights advocate, Sani said he was taught to separate Nigeria’s identity from that of its leaders. He expressed disappointment that some elites now in the opposition were absent when the struggle for democracy was ongoing but have now become critics of the system they did not help build.

The governor also warned privileged elites not to endanger national security for personal or political gains. He said many of those who exploit religion and politics for division often have the means to leave the country when crises arise, leaving the poor to suffer the consequences.

According to him, it is wrong for the wealthy to incite unrest while living comfortably in secure neighbourhoods or sending their children abroad. He described those who exploit insecurity for political advantage as “conflict merchants” who lack true patriotism.

Governor Sani reaffirmed his commitment to promoting unity among all residents of Kaduna, saying that both Christians and Muslims must live and work together in peace. He stressed that his administration would not judge people based on religion but on their integrity and character.

He praised the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Director General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, and other security chiefs for their efforts in tackling insecurity across the country, noting that their work had brought improvement to Kaduna State and beyond.