At 65, Nigeria must correct historical injustice in Kebbi South, – Abdulhameed Abdullahi

As Nigeria marked its 65th Independence anniversary, a Public Affairs Analyst and Advocate for Political Equity, Abdulhameed Musa Abdullahi has called for urgent correction of what he described as the “historical injustice” against Yauri Emirate in Kebbi South politics.

In a statement he personally signed, Abdullahi said independence should be a time for reflection, not just celebration, particularly for communities that have been excluded from political representation for decades.

“For us in Kebbi South, especially the Yauri Emirate, the story of marginalization is not just political rhetoric; it is a lived reality that has left us economically, politically, and socially disadvantaged,” he said.

He noted that since the return to democracy in 1999, the Senate seat for Kebbi South has been effectively monopolized by Zuru Emirate, leaving Yauri consistently sidelined from the highest legislative office in the zone.

“The absence of Yauri Emirate from this office has meant fewer projects, diminished federal appointments, and less voice in national conversations,” Abdullahi lamented.

According to him, independence without inclusivity is hollow and democracy without equity is fragile. “If after 65 years, a community as historically significant as Yauri still has to plead for fair representation, then independence is not yet complete,” he stressed.

Abdullahi also warned against what he called “political imposition” in Kebbi South, accusing some actors of prioritizing opportunism and defections over genuine service and grassroots support.

“Defection without substance does not strengthen democracy; it weakens it. The people of Kebbi South deserve leaders whose impact is measurable, not aspirants whose ambitions are defined by shifting party loyalties,” he said.

He cautioned political parties, especially the ruling party, against rewarding defectors at the expense of loyal party members, saying such practices could breed resentment, voter apathy, and internal conflict.

“What Kebbi South needs is not imposition but inclusion; not opportunism but service; not favoritism but fairness,” he added.

While recognizing the rich cultural heritage of both Yauri and Zuru emirates, Abdullahi insisted that equity in political representation is key to peace and progress.

“Justice for Yauri is justice for Kebbi South. And justice for Kebbi South is justice for Nigeria’s democracy,” he declared.

As Nigeria reflects on 65 years of independence, Abdullahi urged stakeholders to embrace fairness and inclusivity.

“Independence should mean freedom from marginalization, justice for the excluded, and fairness for all. After 65 years, Yauri Emirate deserves nothing less,” he added.