Governor Uba Sani Applauds Speaker Tajudeen Abbas: “He’s Delivering What Elites Only Promised” — Critics Question Motives

Uba Sani, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, has praised the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, for what he termed a “revolutionary departure from parochial politics.” Speaking during a public event in Kaduna North, Sani lauded Abbas for initiating and extending impactful development projects beyond his immediate constituency of Zaria, an act Sani described as “statesmanship above sentiment.”

According to Uba Sani, Abbas’ infrastructural outreach to other underserved areas like Sabon Gari, Giwa, and parts of Igabi signals a new era of federal legislative inclusion. “This is not Zaria-first politics. This is what representation should look like — embracing all Kaduna State,” he remarked, sparking both admiration and political intrigue across the state’s power blocs.

Critics Accuse Abbas of Political Grandstanding Ahead of 2027

Uba Sani’s endorsement of Abbas has ignited debate among political analysts and opposition figures who suggest that the flurry of projects could be a strategic attempt at repositioning for the 2027 general elections. Some insiders allege that the extended outreach may be part of an undeclared gubernatorial ambition, especially given Abbas’ increasing popularity outside Zaria.

While Uba Sani dismissed such assertions as “cynicism without basis,” critics argue that the allocation of federal resources disproportionately to Abbas’ home state hints at a political agenda cloaked in development. “You don’t extend boreholes and rural roads without a long-term plan. It’s not just charity — it’s chess,” noted one political analyst.

Funding Transparency Sparks Controversy Amid Development Hype

Uba Sani’s praise has also drawn attention to the sources of funding behind the sprawling projects being executed under Abbas’ name. Civil society groups and policy watchdogs are demanding more transparency, citing unclear budgetary allocations and a lack of oversight on some constituency projects.

While Uba Sani insisted that “all due process has been followed,” the Kaduna Good Governance Coalition (KGGC) has requested a breakdown of the financial flows to determine if these projects are “federal interventions, private initiatives, or hybrid arrangements ripe for misuse.” The lack of publicly accessible documentation is fuelling public mistrust.

Traditional Institutions Align with Abbas — Political Neutrality Questioned

Uba Sani noted with satisfaction that several traditional rulers have commended Abbas’ outreach, with district heads in Giwa and Makarfi offering symbolic titles in recognition of his contributions. However, this trend has prompted questions over the neutrality of traditional institutions in an increasingly polarized political climate.

Analysts warn that the alignment of royal figures with serving politicians like Abbas — especially when rewarded with development projects — could set a precedent where political loyalty overshadows community objectivity. Uba Sani brushed off concerns, stating that “development transcends politics,” but the debate remains heated in civic forums.

Internal APC Tensions Emerge Over Abbas’ Rising Profile

Uba Sani’s celebration of Abbas’ efforts has not gone down well with certain elements within the Kaduna APC, who view the Speaker’s growing influence as a potential threat to their political turf. Several anonymous party leaders expressed concern that Abbas is being subtly positioned as a “governorship alternative” without broad-based consultation.

Despite Uba Sani’s attempt to downplay internal rivalry, some party chieftains argue that political structures are being “hijacked in slow motion.” The tension reflects deeper fissures within the Kaduna APC, as stakeholders begin jostling for advantage in the post-2027 realignment.

Public Reaction Split: Applause or Alarm Over Abbas’ Expansionist Politics?

Uba Sani claimed that the overwhelming response from the grassroots has been positive, especially in rural areas previously neglected by federal lawmakers. He highlighted testimonies from women and youth in Kudan and Birnin Gwari, who now have access to potable water, schools, and healthcare centers linked to Abbas’ constituency outreach.

However, not everyone is convinced. Civic leaders and non-partisan groups have warned of the dangers of conflating service with political campaigning. “Development is commendable, but when it’s tied to personality cults and selective visibility, we should be worried,” said Hafsat Umar, a civic activist. The debate over whether Abbas’ actions reflect genuine leadership or strategic branding rages on.