For Ramalan Yero’s attention
Of all these challenges, the most fundamental and critical aspects of governance is the issue of adequate security which can yield to development, progress and social cohesion. The fragile nature of security challenges in Kaduna state demands a leader who can balance diverse interests and blend them into one, an attribute which you have started […]
Of all these challenges, the most fundamental and critical aspects of governance is the issue of adequate security which can yield to development, progress and social cohesion. The fragile nature of security challenges in Kaduna state demands a leader who can balance diverse interests and blend them into one, an attribute which you have started showing.
In furtherance to our open letter as published in some national dailies, we did highlight some salient issues that needed the attention of the governor. We also promised to be a partner in constructive engagement by using public medium to commend and offer suggestion whenever the need arises.
Consequently, we are inclined to comment with a view to offer suggestions on few steps you have taken so far in an effort to redirect the ship of state. First, you gave cheque of N150, 000 to each victims of post-election violence in the state, appointment of Mallam Ishaq Hamza Dan-mahawayi as Secretary to the State Government and the release of some vehicles to Operation Yaki.
As for donation made to the post-election violence victims, it is a gesture that will impact positively on the living condition of the victims and neutralise the perception that the state government has left internally displaced persons to their fate. However, there is need to go beyond this line of action by finding a means of evacuating those that are still in the Hajj Camp at Mando and other camps elsewhere, by further providing all necessary support for them to be moved out. By so doing, the place will hitherto be rehabilitated and put to public use especially the hajj transit camp. To achieve this, we suggest you create a committee that will assist your administration on peaceful relocation of all the people concerned. The composition of the committee we suggest should comprise of the followings: Secretary to the state government (SSG), representatives Emir of Zazzau, representatives of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, representatives of Kaduna Pilgrims Welfare Board, representatives of JNI, representatives of CAN, representatives of NUJ, State Emergency Management Agency, representatives of Commissioner of Police, and representatives of the Director of State Security Services. Also suggested are representatives of two prominent organisations that assist greatly in the management of displace people at the camp before being taken over by government namely: Red Cross and Hajj Crescent Initiatives. We also suggest you include Dr Bashir Kurfi of ABU Zaria for his vocal role on the plight of post-election victims especially those at hajj transit camp and any other person your Excellency may deem fit.
Secondly, the release of some vehicles to operation Yaki as part of measure to boast its operation is a commendable step. This is meant to ease their mobility. Sir, it is of my suggestion that the welfare of those security personnel be given a top priority.
Furthermore, there is the need to have a reliable free toll line for members of the public to serve as emergency central command line for Operation Yaki security outfit because the line provided by operation Yaki which are the normal GSM line cannot be relied upon in the event of emergencies.
The appointment of Ishaq Hamza Dan-mahawayi as the Secretary to the State Government is commendable owing to the pedigree of the appointee. We hope to see more of such merit based appointments.
Though, we are consciously aware of your tenure length and newness of your administration, there is need to revisit the Millennium City project conceived by Vice President Namadi Sambo with a view to complete it.
It is an understatement to say Kaduna metropolis has become densely populated which has a lot of disadvantages. There is the need to go back to the drawing board in that project as initiated by previous administration of Namadi Sambo. The Dream City of Vice President on completion will be a landmark achievement and a legacy.
Two years is not too short to make a different and we pray that Allah will assist you in making the difference. And be rest assured that we then shall be in the forefront of beating the drum of Mukhtar daram dam dam.
We pray to Almighty Allah to guide you as you captained the ship of the state.
Usman, President of Kaduna Good Governance Forum, wrote from No.3 Malaysia Street, New Layout Kawo Kaduna.