Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, yesterday asked Nigerians to challenge candidates presenting themselves as alternatives in the 2027 general election to show their records as public office holders.
He advised Nigerians not to listen to their rhetoric, but demand proof of the actions that should earn them another opportunity to serve.
The Speaker, at the maiden graduation of 4,050 youths at the Kaduna State Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development, in Kaduna, said: ‘Let me speak briefly about politics. I am a politician, and this season demands honesty.
” In 2027, the people of Kaduna State will face a clear choice: to keep moving forward or to return to the past.
‘Before then, the political noise will grow louder. Parties will adopt new logos, politicians will wear new colours, and familiar faces will return with fresh promises. But a change of costume does not create a change of character.
‘So, when they come to you with new stories and promises, listen to what they say, but look closely at what they have done. Anyone asking for your trust must first answer for their record.
‘How did they manage public funds? What did they achieve in office? Did they remain true to their principles, or did their principles change whenever power changed hands?
”As our elders say, no matter how long a lie travels, the truth will eventually catch up with it.
‘Some of those presenting themselves as the alternative have been in power before. So, judge them by their record, not their rhetoric. What did they inherit? What did they spend? What did they build? What did they leave behind? Public office is not a magic show.
”The people have a right to know where their money went.
‘Apply the same standard at the national level. Those who criticise current reforms should explain what they did when they had the authority to act.
‘When any politician comes to your ward, do not be distracted by slogans and symbols. Ask for evidence. Ask what they built, whom they trained and which lives they improved. Promises sound good, but only action builds classrooms, clinics, and workshops.
‘People of Kaduna State must, therefore, judge every candidate by what they have done, not only by what they promise. Look at their character, examine their record, and ask whose lives they have improved. Good leadership does not need a long explanation. The results will speak for themselves.
‘From Zaria to Zangon Kataf, from Birnin Gwari to Jaba, and from Kafanchan to Kudan, let one message travel across our state: Kaduna is making progress under APC and under Governor Uba Sani. Nigeria is making progress under the APC and under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
‘It is our solemn duty and responsibility to sustain this progress. The darkest hour comes just before dawn. Do not abandon the journey when the destination is already in sight. A farmer who abandons the field at harvest time leaves the reward of his labour for others.’
Tajudeen emphasised that the ceremony ‘is the practical expression and realisation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,’ stating that reform earns public confidence when its benefits reach the daily lives of ordinary people.”