By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar
A prominent political elder in Daura zone, Alhaji Rabe Yusuf, has distanced himself from the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged imposition of candidates for the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in the area.
Rabe Yusuf, who also holds the traditional title of Sarkin Sudan of Daura, made the clarification during an interview with journalists, including Katsina Times, on Saturday. He stated that reports suggesting certain candidates were being imposed on the people without their consent have no connection to him.
“I have no involvement in the claim that candidates were selected without the approval of the people. I only heard about it like everyone else,” he said.
Reacting to speculations about the possible endorsement or nomination of Yusuf Buhari as a candidate, Yusuf said he had no knowledge of such a move and was not part of any related decision.
“On the issue of Yusuf Buhari, I am not aware of it. I have no involvement. What you heard is exactly what I also heard,” he added.
Speaking on reports that the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Nasiru Yahaya Daura, may contest for a senatorial seat, Yusuf said he had personally discussed the matter with him. According to him, the Speaker indicated that he was being urged by constituents to run.
“I asked him whether anyone was sponsoring him, and he said no. He told me it was the people calling on him to contest, and he cannot ignore their demand,” Yusuf explained.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to contest for political office, stressing that no individual should be prevented from exercising that right.
“Politics is about choice. No one should be forced to run or withdraw. Anyone interested should seek the support of the people, who will ultimately decide through the ballot,” he said, adding that he plans to meet with stakeholders to reaffirm this position.
Yusuf also expressed concern over rising tensions in Daura Local Government Area, noting that other parts of Katsina State remain relatively peaceful.
“What surprises me is that there are no issues in other areas, yet Daura is experiencing this tension. What has gone wrong?” he queried.
He dismissed allegations that he is backing any particular aspirant, insisting that he would never act against the law or the will of the people.
“I will never instruct anyone to contest or withdraw. But if the people show support for a candidate, I will stand with them,” he stated.
Yusuf further argued that it is undemocratic to restrict political participation to a single individual, describing such a notion as unacceptable.
In conclusion, he said his role as a stakeholders’ leader is purely to serve the people of Daura, not for personal gain. He challenged anyone with evidence of him benefiting improperly from public office—such as through contracts, allowances, or financial gains from government officials—to present it publicly.
He also stated that anyone dissatisfied with his leadership is free to follow due process to seek his removal.
“I am always ready to step down if asked to do so,” he concluded.
