By Nasir Abdulkadir
Recently, a misleading article by Ayoola Ajanaku, a self-proclaimed Communications and Advocacy Specialist, was published two days ago in THISDAY, attempting to shift the blame for Kaduna State’s debt crisis from the previous administration to the current one led by Governor Uba Sani. As a concerned citizen, I feel compelled to set the record straight and correct the falsehoods perpetuated by Ajanaku.
Firstly, it is essential to note that Governor Uba Sani was not a part of the decision-making process regarding loans and debts during the previous administration. The $350 million World Bank loan, which Ajanaku tries to pin on Uba Sani, was actually approved by the Senate, where Uba Sani served, but he did not initiate or support the loan alone.
Furthermore, Ajanaku twisted the words of former Governor El-Rufai’s handover speech, portraying it as a justification for Uba Sani’s inaction. In reality, El-Rufai’s speech was a warning about the challenges Uba Sani would face, including the debt burden left behind.
Kaduna State’s debt portfolio is a direct result of the previous administration’s recklessness, not Uba Sani’s. The current administration is working tirelessly to address the financial challenges inherited from El-Rufai’s regime.
Ajanaku’s comparison between Kaduna State’s debt liability and Lagos State’s is misleading. Lagos has a robust economy and revenue base, which Kaduna State lacks. Moreover, the US budget deficit, which Ajanaku cites, is not a justification for Kaduna’s debt crisis, as the US has a strong economy and revenue streams.
In conclusion, Ajanaku’s article is a prime example of misinformation and political propaganda. As a journalist, fact-checking is essential, not spreading lies and half-truths. Governor Uba Sani and his administration are working hard to address the debt crisis and develop Kaduna State; we should support them rather than peddling falsehoods.
