In a recent interview on Arise TV, former governor of Zamfara State, Abdul-Aziz Yari, addressed questions about his tenure and efforts to alleviate the high poverty level in the state. The discussion took place in the context of Yari’s bid for the position of Senate President, with TV anchor Rufai Oseni posing probing inquiries about his suitability for the role.
Oseni questioned Yari’s ability to lead as Senate President, citing the failure to reduce the poverty rate of 92% during his time as governor, alongside allegations of leading an opulent lifestyle. In response, Yari began by challenging the notion that his governorship was solely responsible for the poverty situation in Zamfara State, stating,
Before me, how many governors governed Zamfara state? Am I the first governor?”
He implied that poverty was a longstanding issue that had persisted through multiple administrations.
When pressed about specific actions taken to address poverty, Yari emphasized the limitations of his role, asserting,
Am I the first governor? Am I not? It is on record that I was the governor and I have done my best. The issue of poverty is all over the Northern parts of the country. You know it, so it is not the one that I can make a magic.”
The interview has however raised questions about leadership competence and accountability within the Nigerian polity.
