Key Takeaways
- Governor Uba Sani received commendation from both Christian and Islamic clerics for his commitment to fulfilling promises made to citizens.
- The Governor provided houses and educational support to the families of Mrs. Sarah Achi and Malam Usman Aliyu, who lost spouses to insecurity.
- Archbishop Timothy Yahaya and Sheikh Haliru Maraya praised Governor Sani's integrity and compassion in a rare display of interfaith unity.
- The gesture is part of the Kaduna State government's ongoing policy to support victims of banditry and insecurity.
- Clerics expressed prayers for lasting peace in Kaduna State and divine blessings for the Governor's administration.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has garnered significant praise from prominent religious leaders, both Christian and Islamic, for his unwavering commitment to fulfilling promises made to citizens, particularly those affected by the pervasive insecurity plaguing the region. This rare bipartisan commendation highlights a leader who "keeps his words," a quality often sought but rarely found in contemporary politics.
A Testament to Compassion and Action
The heartfelt testimonies came from Most Rev (Dr) Timothy Yahaya, the Archbishop of Kaduna Province, and Sheikh Haliru Maraya, the Northern Coordinator of the Global Peace Foundation. Both leaders lauded Governor Sani for his recent actions in providing tangible support to families who have endured immense tragedy.
Tragedy Strikes, Governor Responds
The specific acts of kindness that drew such widespread acclaim involved Mrs. Sarah Achi and Malam Usman Aliyu. Mrs. Achi's husband, Ven Edwin Achi, tragically lost his life after being abducted, while Malam Usman's wife, Malama Ummulkhairi Aliyu, an Islamic teacher, was brutally mobbed to death in Maraban Jos last June. Following these devastating incidents, Governor Uba Sani personally visited the bereaved families, offering condolences and making solemn pledges: to purchase a house for each family and to ensure the education and upkeep of Ummukhairi's four orphaned children.
Promises Delivered: New Homes and Hope
Demonstrating a profound commitment to his word, Governor Sani recently fulfilled these promises. At a brief ceremony held at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, the title documents for the new homes were officially handed over to Mrs. Achi and Malam Usman. This act of compassion goes beyond mere financial aid; it provides stability and a renewed sense of hope to families shattered by violence, showcasing a government that stands by its citizens during their darkest hours.
Interfaith Leaders Laud Governor's Integrity
The joint praise from leaders of different faiths underscores the unifying impact of the Governor's actions and his perceived integrity.
Archbishop Yahaya's Heartfelt Gratitude
Expressing his profound gratitude, Archbishop Yahaya stated that "the lexicon of words look very inadequate to express our feelings from our heart of hearts, and to express our thanks." He emphasized the rarity of leaders fulfilling promises in the Nigerian context, noting, "it is one thing for leaders in our clime to make a promise, and it’s another thing to keep that promise. But God has so blessed us with a Governor that when he says something, he follows his promise and keep his words." The clergyman concluded with prayers for the Governor's administration, saying, "as you put smiles on the faces of this family, the Lord will put smiles on your government in the name of Jesus." He also prayed for lasting peace in Kaduna State, hoping such troubles would never recur.
Sheikh Maraya Commends Empathy and Support
Sheikh Haliru Maraya echoed these sentiments, recalling Governor Sani's "usual kindness and mercy" in visiting Ummulkhairi's family. He confirmed that the Governor's pledge of a monetary donation, reportedly N10 million, had been fulfilled. Furthermore, Sheikh Maraya highlighted the Governor's directive to officials to find a "befitting quality school" for Ummulkhairi's children and the successful acquisition of a "befitting three-bedroom bungalow" for the family. "We thank you immensely for always ensuring that your words are in tandem with your actions," Sheikh Maraya affirmed, praising the Almighty Allah for a "compassionate Governor" who has become a "fountain of mercy" to the people of Kaduna State.
Government's Broader Commitment to Victims
In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani reiterated his administration's steadfast policy of supporting victims of banditry and insecurity since assuming office. He recalled that his government had previously handed over 50 houses to families affected by banditry attacks in Kaduna State last year, affirming, "I’m also happy today we are continuing with that very important policy." The Governor assured the public, "As a government, we will not let the families of the victims of insecurity in Kaduna State down; we will always be with them." He also expressed happiness that Mrs. Achi, who had been hospitalized for many months, had recovered.
Why This Matters
Governor Uba Sani's consistent fulfillment of promises to victims of insecurity is a crucial step towards rebuilding trust between the government and its citizens in a region deeply scarred by violence. Such actions not only provide immediate relief and stability to affected families but also send a powerful message of empathy, accountability, and hope, fostering a sense of security and unity essential for long-term peace and development in Kaduna State.