Controversy has trailed an account circulating on social media alleging that the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Dr Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, challenged President Bola Tinubu’s campaign representatives over insecurity, hardship and political accountability during a visit to his palace.
The account, attributed to Comrade Ibrahim Muhammad Sani, claims that members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign team visited the emir’s palace in Katsina to seek royal blessings and support ahead of the 2027 general election.
According to Sani, the monarch used the occasion to express concern about what he described as the growing disconnect between political leaders and ordinary Nigerians.
The account alleges that the emir criticised politicians for seeking the support of traditional rulers during election periods but failing to maintain meaningful contact with their communities after securing electoral victories.
It further claims that the monarch questioned the emphasis on political campaigns amid persistent insecurity and economic hardship affecting residents of Katsina State.
The account also attributes to the emir concerns about the activities of bandits, the closure of schools, restrictions on farming and the payment of ransom by families seeking the release of abducted relatives.
It alleges that the monarch challenged the visiting politicians to prioritise security and the welfare of residents rather than concentrating on preparations for the next election.
However, the alleged statements and direct quotations attributed to the emir could not be independently verified from the material provided. The identities of the members of the delegation and the precise details of the reported meeting also require confirmation.
In his commentary, Sani criticised the Tinubu administration, citing rising living costs, exchange-rate pressures, high fertiliser prices and persistent insecurity as issues that should take precedence over early political mobilisation.
He argued that politicians seeking re-election should demonstrate measurable improvements in the living conditions of citizens rather than relying on campaign visits and appeals for traditional endorsement.
The writer also urged political leaders to engage directly with communities affected by banditry, particularly residents of vulnerable areas in Katsina State, and address the challenges confronting farmers and other rural dwellers.
Sani maintained that voters could exercise their electoral choices independently, regardless of campaign promises or material inducements.
He called on political leaders to prioritise public service, security and economic relief as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general election.
Verification note: The alleged quotations attributed to the Emir of Katsina remain unverified. The report should not be published as a confirmed account of his remarks until the palace, the campaign delegation or another credible source independently confirms what transpired during the visit.
