Senator Lawal Usman Slams Kaduna Elders Forum Over Recall Threat

Senator Lawal Usman, representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, has criticized the Kaduna Elders Forum (KEF) for calling for his recall from the National Assembly, describing their allegations of non-performance as unfounded and politically motivated.

The KEF, through its chairman, Inuwa Rigasa, accused the senator of failing to fulfill his campaign promises and neglecting his constituents during challenging economic times.

Rigasa remarked, “Since his election to the Senate in 2023, Senator Lawal Adamu has failed to speak up or act in the interest of his constituents despite the prevailing economic hardships.

This is unprecedented in the history of senatorial representation in the state.”

In a strongly-worded statement titled “Kaduna Elders’ Forum’s infantile outbursts: Empty barrel making most noise”, Senator Usman dismissed the allegations, labeling them as “laughable” and an attempt by politically motivated individuals to discredit him.

The statement, issued by his Senior Special Assistant, Segun Olatunji, emphasized that the senator remains focused on his legislative duties and will not engage in what he termed “frivolous arguments.”

“I am too busy with my legislative duties to engage in disputatious arguments with frivolous individuals working to achieve the selfish interests of some unserious politicians hiding behind a finger to fight political battles with me,” Usman said.

Referencing a similar recall threat made by a group under the name Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum (KPTF) last year, Usman remarked, “What became of the group’s earlier recall threat with a 14-day ultimatum made to me last year under the cover of the Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum? The rehash of the same threat by the same set of individuals under a new name (KEF) is laughable and curious.”

The senator accused the KEF of advancing the interests of political sponsors rather than representing the people of Kaduna Central.

“I urge the good people of Kaduna Central Senatorial District not to allow themselves to be deceived by the lies being peddled against me by the so-called Kaduna elders, as they lack the morality to continue to pretend to love the ordinary people of the constituency, whereas they have been engaged in their nefarious activities in the interest of their sponsors and paymasters,” he stated.

Achievements and Legislative Record

Defending his performance, Usman outlined his accomplishments over the past 18 months, which include:

• Construction of 100 smart primary school buildings.
• Provision of scholarships and payment of WAEC and UTME registration fees for hundreds of students.
• Installation of boreholes for potable water and solar-powered lights.
• Entrepreneurial training for farmers and training of women in soap making and fish farming, all with startup capital.
• Distribution of N500,000 business startup capital to 500 beneficiaries.
• Payment of registration fees for 1,000 tertiary institution students.

In the legislative arena, the senator highlighted his role in securing Senate approval for the expedited reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressway.

He also noted four critical motions and four bills he sponsored, currently at their third reading stage.

Senator Usman urged his constituents to disregard the recall threat, reaffirming his commitment to their welfare and development.