.Says ‘Gwamnati da Jama’a’ is about people, not politics
..By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse
The Jigawa State Government has dismissed criticisms from opposition parties, asserting that its Citizens’ Engagement Programme, Gwamnati da Jama’a, is focused on addressing the genuine concerns of residents rather than pursuing political advantage.
Dr. Sagir Musa Ahmed, Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, made this statement in Birniwa Local Government Area during the latest leg of the programme, which aims to foster direct dialogue between the government and citizens across the state’s 27 local councils.
The initiative, launched by Governor Umar Namadi, is designed to provide a platform for residents to voice their needs and grievances directly to the executive, while also serving as a channel for the government to communicate its ongoing developmental projects.
However, the programme has faced criticism from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), who claim that it has deviated from its original purpose by marginalising dissenting voices and prioritising partisan loyalty over inclusivity.
In response to these claims, Dr. Sagir rejected the criticisms, emphasising that the government is not seeking approval from the opposition but is rather focused on improving the lives of the people.
“The government isn’t expecting praise from the opposition. What matters most to us is meeting the expectations of our citizens,” he said to journalists.
He further stated that the programme has ensured broad representation, drawing participants from all political wards, civil society organisations, transport unions such as NURTW and NATO, farmers’ groups, and local development associations.
“I don’t think it’s necessary to focus on what the opposition is saying. In anything you do, there will always be critics. But what’s important is that, for the first time in Jigawa’s history, the Governor, alongside members of the executive, judiciary, and legislature, are coming together to engage directly with the people and seek their input,” he added.
Sagir reiterated the Namadi administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, underlining that it will continue to respond to the voices of the people, regardless of political affiliation.
“We are focused on the good people of the state, and we’re pleased to see that they are happy and satisfied with what the government is doing. Everyone is entitled to their opinion; it is a democracy,” he said.
The Citizens’ Engagement Programme continues to tour other local governments in what government officials describe as “an unprecedented open-door governance approach” aimed at strengthening trust and accountability between citizens and their leaders.