By Fatima Saka, Abuja
The Senator representing Kebbi South Senatorial District, Garba Musa Maidoki, has alleged that a N1.2 billion federal-funded hospital rehabilitation project and other critical interventions meant for his constituency were blocked by the Kebbi State Government, a development he says forced his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking to journalists shortly after his defection was announced at plenary on Tuesday, Maidoki revealed that the stalled project included N600 million earmarked for drugs and medical equipment, describing the intervention as crucial to reviving a general hospital in dire condition within his constituency.
According to the lawmaker, the inability to execute the project, alongside other denied initiatives such as the construction of a modern veterinary clinic in Zuru, reflects what he termed systemic neglect and marginalisation of Kebbi South by the state government under Governor Nasir Idris.
“We secured N1.2 billion from the federal government to renovate a general hospital. Half of that amount was for drugs and equipment, but the state government denied us the opportunity to execute the project. That money is now lost, and the hospital remains in poor condition,” Maidoki said.
He added that the proposed veterinary clinic project was intended to support the agrarian population in the district, noting that the only existing facility in Zuru dates back to the pre-1960 colonial era and has seen no significant upgrade.
Maidoki explained that his earlier decision to join the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was driven by a desire to align politically with the state government to facilitate development for his constituents. However, he said promises of inclusion and cooperation were not fulfilled.
“We were assured of fairness, inclusion in governance, and support for our people, but none of these promises were kept. Instead, our projects were blocked, and our people excluded,” he said.
The senator further alleged political discrimination within the party, claiming he was denied an automatic ticket while other senators from the state were granted such privileges, attributing the development to his vocal stance on insecurity in Kebbi South.
“My only offence was speaking up about insecurity and calling for help for my people. Instead of addressing the issue, it created hostility,” he stated.
He also raised concerns about the broader implications for democracy, alleging that internal party processes are increasingly controlled by governors, thereby undermining fairness and the will of the people of state.
Maidoki maintained that his defection to the ADC was a strategic move to continue advocating for his constituents, insisting that Kebbi South, despite being politically significant, has remained excluded from key leadership opportunities in the state.
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“Our people are united and politically aware. Despite having over 120,000 registered voters in a recent by-election, only about 4,000 participated, showing strong alignment with our position,” he added.
The senator reaffirmed his commitment to representing the interests of Kebbi South, vowing to continue drawing national and international attention to the challenges facing the district, particularly insecurity and lack of development.
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