The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) have said it is compelled to address the recent allegations regarding the fiscal management of Kaduna State, particularly the claims surrounding the state’s significant increase in debt under the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
These claims, suggesting that the Kaduna State Government borrowed a staggering N36 billion within just six months—outstripping the total of N29.6 billion borrowed throughout 2022 and 2023—are both alarming and unfounded.
A statement by the Chairman of NAN Salihu Suleiman said, "We take this opportunity to remind the sponsors of such spurious allegations to refrain from meddling in matters that require acute understanding and constructive dialogue. Speculative pronouncements only serve to destabilize the political landscape and undermine the ongoing development initiatives vital to the prosperity of our state.
"These assertions, claiming that the Kaduna State Government has accrued a staggering N36 billion in debt within a mere six-month timeframe, are not only alarming but fundamentally unfounded. Such a figure dwarfs the total of N29.6 billion borrowed throughout the entirety of 2022 and 2023, raising serious questions about the credibility and motivations of those disseminating these claims".
The Northern group in the statement said, in the wake of these allegations, it is crucial to highlight that responsible fiscal management is an essential aspect of governance, particularly in a state that is striving for sustainable development and economic growth.
It added; Claims that suggest reckless borrowing without regard for the implications on the state’s financial future overlook the complexities involved in state finance and the need for borrowing to facilitate impactful projects and initiatives, stressing that the juxtaposition of an alleged rapid increase in debt against the history of fiscal borrowing presents a misleading narrative that fails to encapsulate the broader economic context in which these financial decisions are made.
"The ongoing development initiatives implemented by the Kaduna State Government are vital to our state’s prosperity. They are designed not only to improve the quality of life for our citizens but also to lay the groundwork for long-term economic sustainability.
"Investments in infrastructure, education, health, and security are necessary components of this vision. It is therefore disheartening to witness attempts to undermine these crucial initiatives through speculation and misinformation.
We draw attention to the nature of governance, which often involves making difficult decisions that can include strategic borrowing as a tool for development.
"It is critical to understand that such decisions, when executed prudently, can foster economic growth and result in a stronger fiscal position in the long term. Misrepresentations of these decisions not only distort public perception but may also engender distrust among investors, stakeholders, and the citizenry.
"These allegations reflect an irresponsible attempt to politicize state finance, eroding the trust that is essential for collaborative governance and community progress. We urge all stakeholders to engage in constructive and informed dialogue rather than resorting to dangerous rhetoric that breeds division. Speculative pronouncements, devoid of understanding and insight, threaten to destabilize the political landscape and detract from our collective goals of advancing the wellbeing of Kaduna State".
NAN therefore, called upon the sponsors of such spurious claims to desist from their campaign of misinformation, adding that it is incumbent upon all of us to engage in dialogue that fosters comprehension and unity rather than division and misunderstanding and as citizens of Kaduna State, we should champion discussions that promote accountability, transparency, and responsible governance.
"It is essential that we remain vigilant and discerning in the face of misrepresentation and fear-mongering. We reaffirm our support for the efforts of the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani as it navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Together, let us build a Kaduna State anchored in trust, dialogue, and a shared commitment to development" the group stressed.
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