By Awwal Umar Kontagora Engr. Umar Usman, popularly known as Sai Malam, a candidate for the House of Representatives representin...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Engr. Umar Usman, popularly known as Sai Malam, a candidate for the House of Representatives representing Bosso and Paikoro Federal Constituency under the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), says he has supported several communities with electricity and other development projects.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Usman said the interventions were part of his commitment to community development, stressing that his support for the people was not limited to election periods.
He explained that he had undertaken similar development initiatives in the past, including during his tenure as a councillor, adding that some of the projects continued to benefit residents.
According to him, the impact of those earlier interventions had encouraged him to sustain his efforts to address the needs of communities whenever he had the opportunity.
“Whenever God gives you the opportunity, you should do something for the benefit of the nation. That is patriotism,” he said.
Usman cited electricity access as one of the pressing needs identified during visits to communities. He said residents of Bako, in Kamfala Ward, had struggled for years to secure electricity connections without finding anyone to facilitate the work.
He said electricity had subsequently been connected in two areas of Bako, Kamfala Ward, as well as Unguwan Tukura and Bosso Central I, all in Bosso Local Government Area.
He also disclosed that solar-powered lighting systems had been distributed to communities and public facilities. According to him, five units were provided to Shanu, two to Marikici and two to Kasuwan Dare in Chanchaga Ward. He further said two solar units were donated to vigilante offices in Bosso and Shango.
In another intervention, Usman said residents of Nukuchi Ward in Tungan Malam, Paikoro Local Government Area, had requested financial assistance for development projects, prompting him to provide ₦400,000 in support.
He attributed his commitment to community service to the political philosophy of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, which he said emphasised grassroots development and service to the people.
Usman maintained that meaningful contributions to society did not depend on holding political office, adding that individuals could support development initiatives regardless of their political positions.
He recalled that he was previously a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) when Kwankwaso belonged to the party. He also said he had contested for the Bosso State Constituency seat under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) but was unsuccessful.
He said the electoral setback did not discourage him from pursuing community development initiatives.
On national politics, Usman expressed hope that Peter Obi would win the forthcoming presidential election, arguing that Obi's political philosophy aligned with what he described as Kwankwaso's emphasis on rebuilding Nigeria and addressing the country's challenges.
He criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing insecurity, rising living costs and unemployment as major concerns facing Nigerians.
Usman urged voters not to be swayed by monetary inducements or the distribution of food items during election campaigns, warning that such practices could distract voters from assessing candidates' records and plans for the country.
He also questioned how Nigeria could attract investors amid persistent insecurity and inadequate electricity supply, arguing that both conditions undermined confidence in the country's investment climate.
Reacting to calls for citizens to take personal responsibility for their security, Usman said the government had a duty to protect the population. He urged Nigerians to exercise their voting rights to elect leaders they believe could safeguard the country and restore public confidence.
He further challenged political figures advising Northerners against supporting Obi, asking what alternatives voters should consider if they were unwilling to give him an opportunity.
Usman concluded by warning that another term for Tinubu and his political allies would, in his view, worsen the country's economic and security challenges. He called on Nigerians to consider the consequences of their electoral choices and support leadership they believe would address the nation's difficulties.
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