Former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, in this interview, speaks on his governorship ambition in Nasarawa State, his plans for security, infrastructure, and economic development, as well as his views on state police, zoning and grassroots governance. Sunday Aborisade brings excerpts.
What informed your decision to contest the Nasarawa State governorship election?
My decision is rooted in my experience and understanding of the challenges facing not just Nasarawa State, but the entire North-central region. Security issues are not isolated; what happens in Nasarawa affects neighbouring states like Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Kaduna and Niger.
Having worked at the highest level of policing in this country, I have been part of advising and implementing strategies to tackle insecurity. I now believe the time has come for me to be in a position where I can directly apply political solutions to these challenges. Security is not just about force; it requires political will, economic planning and community engagement.
You mentioned political solutions to insecurity. Can you elaborate on what you mean?
Yes. The mistake we often make is to think that security can be solved purely through force. That is not sustainable. The root causes of insecurity which are, poverty, unemployment, and social dislocation, must be addressed. When people do not have legitimate means of livelihood, they resort to crime. So, political solutions involve creating opportunities, addressing grievances, and building trust within communities. If we do that, the pressure on security agencies will reduce significantly.
What are the key security challenges in Nasarawa State, and how will you address them?
The major issues in Nasarawa are farmer-herder conflicts and kidnapping. These are not unique to the state, but they are particularly pronounced in the North-central region. To address them, we must first understand their causes. For instance, conflicts between farmers and herders often arise from competition over resources and, in some cases, deep-seated mistrust.
My approach is multi-layered. First, we will create jobs, especially for the youth, through agriculture and mining. Second, we will promote dialogue and conflict resolution at the community level, bringing farmers and herders together to agree on acceptable norms. Third, we will strengthen community policing by working closely with traditional institutions. They understand their people and can provide valuable intelligence.
What is your position on the controversial issue of state police?
The Constitution provides for one police force, but in reality, we already have different forms of policing. When you look at vigilante groups, neighbourhood watch, and other local security arrangements, they are performing policing functions. So, whether we formally call it state police or not, it already exists in practice.
The real issue is not whether to create state police, but how to strengthen and regulate these existing structures to make them more effective and accountable. Some people fear that governors may misuse state police, but even now, local security outfits are being used in various ways. What we need is a proper framework to ensure professionalism and oversight.
Beyond security, what are your priorities for the state?
Economic development is a major priority. Nasarawa State has enormous potential, particularly in agriculture and solid minerals. Unfortunately, these resources are not being fully utilised. With the right investments and policies, we can create jobs, increase revenue and improve living standards.
During my consultations, I visited all 147 wards in the state. I saw the challenges firsthand including youth unemployment, lack of opportunities for women, and inadequate infrastructure. These are areas that require urgent attention. If we empower the youth and women, we will not only improve the economy but also reduce insecurity.
You mentioned infrastructure. What specific challenges did you observe?
The infrastructure deficit is significant. For example, electricity supply is unreliable, even in the state capital. Small businesses depend on power to operate, and when it is not available, their livelihoods are affected.
Road infrastructure is another major issue. While there are some good roads in urban areas, rural roads are in poor condition. Farmers find it difficult to transport their produce to markets, which affects both their income and food supply.
Water supply is also a challenge. In many parts of the state, including the capital, residents cannot rely on public water systems and have to depend on boreholes. This has implications for public health and overall quality of life.
What are your plans for the state capital, Lafia?
Lafia does not reflect the status of a state capital. It still looks more like a glorified local government headquarters. This is largely due to the lack of consistent focus on urban development by previous administrations.
My plan is to transform Lafia into a modern city with proper infrastructure and urban planning. We will also develop satellite towns to accommodate the growing population, especially given the state’s proximity to Abuja. This presents a unique opportunity that has not been fully exploited.
How do you intend to address the situation in Mararaba and other densely populated areas?
Mararaba is a product of historical developments. It started as a temporary settlement during the construction of Abuja, but it has grown into a densely populated area without proper planning. However, that does not mean it cannot be improved.
We will focus on urban renewal by creating new, well-planned settlements and upgrading existing ones. We will also develop alternative road networks to ease congestion and improve connectivity. With proper planning and investment, Mararaba can be transformed.
What is your position on zoning in Nasarawa politics?
Historically, Nasarawa State has not strictly practised zoning. Leadership has emerged based on political dynamics rather than regional rotation. While some stakeholders advocate zoning, I believe the position of governor should be open to any competent individual from any part of the state.
What matters most is the ability to deliver good governance. Restricting leadership based on zoning may limit the pool of capable candidates.
Do you have the support of key political stakeholders in the state?
In politics, the most important stakeholders are the people. I have taken my campaign directly to the electorate. I visited all the wards, engaged with party officials and community leaders, and listened to their concerns.
While political endorsements are important, they are not decisive. Ultimately, it is the people who determine the outcome of an election. I am confident in the support I have received at the grassroots level.
Critics say you are more of a technocrat than a politician. How do you respond to that?
Politics is not limited to campaigning or holding political office. It involves understanding systems, managing relationships, and resolving conflicts. Throughout my career, I have engaged in these activities at various levels.
Even as a police officer, I was involved in negotiations, conflict resolution and strategic decision-making. These are all elements of politics. So, I would say I bring both technocratic experience and political understanding to the table.
What is your stance on local government autonomy?
Local government autonomy is essential for grassroots development. In any functional democracy, the three tiers of government must operate effectively. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, local governments are often dependent on state governments, which limits their ability to deliver services.
If the law provides for autonomy, it should be implemented fully. Local governments should have access to their resources and be held accountable for how they use them. This will bring development closer to the people.
Will you probe your predecessors if elected?
Governance should not be driven by vendetta. If there are issues that require investigation, there are established institutions to handle them. My focus will be on moving the state forward. However, accountability is important, and due process should always be followed.
What have you personally contributed to Nasarawa State?
I was born and raised in Lafia, and my roots are firmly in the state. As Inspector-General of Police, I contributed to national security efforts that also benefited Nasarawa.
Specifically, I facilitated recruitment into the police, established a Police Mobile Training School in the state, and supported the development of police secondary schools and hospitals. I also contributed to infrastructure development. So, I have already given back to the state in various ways.
Why should the people of Nasarawa State vote for you?
Leadership is about service and results. I bring experience, vision and a deep understanding of the challenges facing the state. I have a clear plan to address insecurity, create jobs, improve infrastructure and promote development.
I have also engaged directly with the people and understand their needs. If given the opportunity, I will work tirelessly to improve their lives and move Nasarawa State forward.
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