GOV. UBA SANI CHOOSES RECONCILIATION OVER CONFRONTATION, PEACE OVER CRISIS — BOBAI, SSA PUBLIC AFFAIRS . (PHOTO).

 Gov. Uba Sani Chooses Reconciliation Over Confrontation, Peace Over Crisis — Bobai, SSA Public Affairs 

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Uba Sani on Public Affairs, Hon. Victor Mathew Bobai, has defended the Governor's commitment to democracy, peace, and political inclusion, insisting that recent developments within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State demonstrate a leadership style built on tolerance, reconciliation, and respect for divergent opinions.

Speaking with journalists in Sabon Tasha, Hon. Bobai dismissed claims by some political actors that Governor Uba Sani is intolerant of criticism, arguing that the Governor's handling of political disagreements since assuming office has proven otherwise.

According to him, Governor Uba Sani has consistently demonstrated restraint and maturity in the face of provocation, allowing political opponents and critics to freely express their views without fear of persecution.

"Governor Uba Sani is not the tyrant some people are trying to portray him to be. The fact that individuals can openly criticize him, hold meetings, grant interviews, and move freely across Kaduna State is evidence of a democratic environment where freedom of expression is respected. His administration believes in engagement rather than intimidation and reconciliation rather than political witch-hunts," he stated.

The Governor's aide noted that rather than responding to post-primary grievances with exclusion or hostility, Governor Uba Sani has embraced a reconciliation strategy aimed at preserving party unity and strengthening internal democracy within the APC.

He revealed that the proposed Reconciliation Committee being considered by the government and party leadership is designed to address concerns arising from the recently concluded APC primaries, engage aggrieved aspirants, and ensure that every stakeholder remains an integral part of the party's future.

According to Bobai, the committee will serve as a platform for dialogue, consultation, and healing, bringing together respected party elders, stakeholders, government officials, and political leaders to foster understanding and reinforce unity across all sections of the party.

He further described the proposal to refund nomination form fees to unsuccessful aspirants as a bold and unprecedented initiative that reflects Governor Uba Sani's commitment to participatory democracy and inclusive leadership.

"Many aspirants invested significant resources and time in the democratic process. Recognizing their sacrifices and ensuring they remain valued members of the APC family is part of Governor Uba Sani's vision for a party where every member matters, regardless of the outcome of the primaries," he said.

Bobai stressed that the reconciliation initiative goes beyond financial considerations, explaining that its primary objective is to strengthen trust, promote inclusiveness, and prevent political disagreements from degenerating into divisions capable of weakening the party ahead of future elections.

According to him, the proposed refund of nomination fees is not merely a financial gesture but a demonstration of appreciation to party members who invested their resources and confidence in the democratic process. He noted that while many political leaders focus solely on consolidating political victories after primaries, Governor Uba Sani is determined to ensure that all aspirants remain respected stakeholders within the APC family.

The SSA explained that the Governor's approach reflects a broader vision of inclusive and participatory democracy in Kaduna State, where political competition does not translate into political exclusion. He added that every genuine party member deserves a sense of belonging and an opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of the party regardless of the outcome of internal contests.

He therefore called on party members, supporters, and political stakeholders to exercise patience and allow the reconciliation process to run its course rather than engage in inflammatory rhetoric, misinformation, or actions capable of creating unnecessary tension.

"Reconciliation is most effective when all parties act in good faith. It is important for members to wait and understand the direction of the party leadership instead of engaging in actions that could create confusion or encourage division. Governor Uba Sani's priority remains peace, stability, and the collective progress of Kaduna State," he stated.

The SSA also cautioned individuals allegedly being used by external political interests to undermine the reconciliation process, warning that attempts to create discord within the party would not serve the interests of APC members or the people of Kaduna State.

Further defending the integrity of the APC primary process in Kaduna State, Bobai maintained that Governor Uba Sani neither imposed candidates nor denied any aspirant the opportunity to test their popularity within the party.

According to him, the APC leadership encouraged consensus arrangements where possible in the interest of party unity, while also providing opportunities for open and democratic contests where consensus could not be achieved.

"The APC primary election was never an imposition. Governor Uba Sani encouraged consensus and supported an open democratic process within the party. Those who participated should accept the outcome in good faith rather than engage in unnecessary accusations against the Governor. Democracy naturally produces winners and losers, but it should never produce enemies within the same political family," Bobai stated.

He urged aggrieved party members to channel their energies toward strengthening the APC and supporting the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a leader committed to Nigeria's long-term development.

"Governor Uba Sani believes strongly in President Bola Tinubu and his vision for Nigeria. That is why he campaigned vigorously for him across Northern Nigeria and remains committed to ensuring his re-election in 2027. The President has the interest of Nigerians at heart. Every meaningful reform process takes time, but the ultimate objective is victory for Nigeria and prosperity for its citizens," he added.

Reacting to comments suggesting that some political decisions were being treated as unquestionable directives, Bobai rejected attempts to portray Governor Uba Sani as someone seeking absolute authority.

"Governor Uba Sani is not God and has never claimed to be God. It is therefore unfair and misleading for anyone to attempt to compare him to God simply because they disagree with a political outcome. Respect for leadership and constituted authority is a fundamental principle in every democratic society. As Christians, the Bible instructs believers to respect, honour, and pray for those placed in positions of authority while exercising their democratic rights responsibly. It is pure blackmail to compare a leader like Governor Uba Sani to God simply to score political points."

On national politics, Hon. Bobai reaffirmed Governor Uba Sani's unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration, noting that the Governor remains one of the strongest supporters of the President's reform agenda in Northern Nigeria.

He emphasized that Governor Uba Sani has consistently mobilized political support for President Tinubu and will continue to work with party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters to ensure the success of the APC and the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

Bobai further dismissed suggestions that APC was threatened by opposition forces in Kaduna State, expressing confidence in the party's strength, grassroots support, and growing acceptance across the state.

"There is no opposition party in Kaduna State today that is stronger than the APC. We respect all political parties, but we are not intimidated by anyone. Governor Uba Sani will continue to enjoy the confidence of the people because of his commitment to peace, inclusiveness, and development. Likewise, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will win Kaduna State overwhelmingly in 2027."

He concluded by reiterating that Governor Uba Sani's decision to establish a Reconciliation Committee and support the refund of nomination fees for unsuccessful aspirants reflects a leader determined to strengthen internal democracy rather than weaken it.

According to him, the initiative is evidence that Governor Uba Sani believes in inclusive governance, participatory politics, and carrying every stakeholder along irrespective of the outcome of the primaries.

"Governor Uba Sani has chosen reconciliation over confrontation, dialogue over division, and inclusion over exclusion. That is the hallmark of a leader who understands that lasting political success is built not on intimidation, but on unity, peace, and shared purpose," he said.