‘Send Your Own Children First’: Uba Sani Slams Politicians for Using Poor Youths to Spark Unrest

BY TAIBAT UMMI YAKUBU

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has issued a strong warning to politicians accused of exploiting vulnerable Nigerians for political gain, saying the practice of encouraging poor youths to engage in violence and unrest poses a serious threat to democracy and national stability.

Speaking on Monday during a Special Interfaith Dialogue attended by traditional rulers and Christian and Muslim religious leaders in Kaduna, the governor expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of political actors mobilising disadvantaged young people to participate in disruptive activities while keeping their own families far from the risks involved.

Sani urged religious leaders to play a more active role in discouraging politicians from inciting violence, particularly during election periods. According to him, faith leaders occupy a unique position in society and must help educate citizens on the importance of peace, tolerance and responsible political engagement.

The governor lamented that many of the young people often seen at the forefront of violent protests and political unrest are children from poor families who are easily manipulated by influential individuals pursuing personal ambitions. He warned that such actions not only endanger lives but also weaken democratic institutions and threaten national unity.

Drawing from his own history as a pro-democracy activist, Sani recalled years spent fighting for justice, the rule of law and democratic governance under military rule. He said those experiences had strengthened his belief that meaningful political change should never come at the expense of innocent citizens, especially vulnerable youths.

In one of the most pointed moments of his address, the governor challenged politicians who encourage street protests and confrontations to lead such actions themselves rather than sending other people's children into potentially dangerous situations.

He argued that while many politicians openly call for mass action, their own children are often studying or living comfortably abroad, far removed from the consequences of political instability. Meanwhile, he said, it is the children of ordinary Nigerians who are exposed to violence, arrests and other dangers associated with unrest.

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Sani stressed that political disagreements are normal in any democracy but should never be allowed to descend into hatred, hostility or violence. He noted that citizens have the right to support different political parties and hold varying opinions, but those differences must be managed peacefully and respectfully.

The governor further emphasised that elections are naturally competitive and will always produce winners and losers. However, he maintained that preserving peace before, during and after elections is more important than any political victory.

According to him, safeguarding democracy is a collective responsibility that extends beyond government to include political leaders, religious institutions, traditional authorities and ordinary citizens.

Sani also highlighted the importance of Northern Nigeria maintaining stability and avoiding crises that could hinder development or create divisions within the region. He called on community leaders to continue promoting dialogue, understanding and peaceful coexistence among diverse groups.

The governor urged religious and traditional leaders to keep praying for the country and its leadership, saying Nigeria needs wisdom, unity and divine guidance to overcome its challenges and build a more prosperous future.

He announced that the Kaduna State Government would continue holding the interfaith dialogue on a quarterly basis to create a platform for discussions on peace, security and other issues affecting the well-being of citizens.

In his remarks, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Nuhu Bamalli, echoed the governor’s call for unity and tolerance. He urged Nigerians to respect one another’s religious beliefs, cultural differences and ways of life, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains essential for national progress.

The traditional ruler also encouraged citizens to embrace an inclusive society where people look out for one another regardless of ethnic, religious or political affiliations, noting that mutual understanding and compassion are key to sustaining peace across the country.