Marafa’s resignation pledge has drawn fresh criticism in the Zamfara governorship race. Suleman Ahmad Tudu, a media aide to the Zamfara State Government, questioned the plan in an opinion article titled “The Candidate Campaigning With a Resignation Letter.” The article targets Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, the governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The debate at a glance
| Candidate | Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, NDC |
| His pledge | Resign if security targets are missed within two years |
| Target reported | At least 75 per cent of security objectives |
| Critic | Suleman Ahmad Tudu, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Secretary to the State Government |
| Type of piece | Opinion article |
| Marafa’s response | None found |
Marafa promised to resign if his administration fails to deliver on security within two years. Reports from September say he set a target of at least 75 per cent of his security objectives. Tudu says Marafa made the declaration in an interview with DCL Hausa. Other reports place the pledge at a media chat with NUJ journalists in Gusau on 16 September.
Tudu argued that a resignation pledge does not give voters a clear strategy for tackling banditry. He said candidates should present practical plans and measurable targets rather than rely on promises to step down. He also referred to Marafa’s resignation as Commissioner for Education in 2008. Tudu questioned how relevant that experience is to his governorship ambition. Marafa, however, has cited that resignation as an example of taking responsibility.
The article contrasted the pledge with the record of Governor Dauda Lawal. According to Tudu, the governor’s six-point rescue agenda covers security, agriculture, education, healthcare, the economy and empowerment. He listed a Security Trust Fund and Community Protection Guards known as Askarawa. He also cited equipment and logistical support for security agencies.
Tudu also cited the settlement of salary arrears and examination fees owed to WAEC and NECO. He mentioned the recruitment of staff into public schools and hospitals. In addition, he cited about ₦14 billion paid in outstanding pension and gratuity entitlements. He argued that these steps show an approach based on policies and interventions rather than threats to resign.
Tudu concluded by calling for continuity in Zamfara’s governance. He urged voters to weigh candidates’ proposals, records and plans for security and development.
The article reflects the views of its author, who works in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government. Sojworldnews has not independently verified the claims about the Lawal administration. We also could not find a response from Marafa to the article.
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