The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has criticised the Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu, saying any government that fails to protect citizens and provide opportunities for employment does not deserve to remain in power.
Kwankwaso made the statement on Friday in Jos, Plateau State, during an event organised by the Middle Belt Youth Council for the Obi/Kwankwaso campaign team.
He expressed concern over the decline of factories and industries that previously provided jobs for Nigerians, lamenting that many of the country’s former industrial establishments were no longer operating.
“You can’t find any factory or industry that is working and can employ people in this country, including Plateau State. The factories we had before are gone, and nobody is paying attention to that,” he said.
Kwankwaso also condemned the persistent killings across the country, accusing the authorities of failing to show sufficient concern for the lives lost to insecurity.
He said Nigerians continued to lose their lives in attacks by bandits, Boko Haram insurgents and during communal conflicts, warning that the victims should not be treated as though their lives had no value.
“Unfortunately, in this country, you wake up and find that 10 people, 20 people, 100 people, or even more, are killed like they’re not even human, and nobody cares,” he said.
The former Kano State governor stressed the need for leaders who would protect every Nigerian regardless of religion, ethnicity or geographical location.
“But these people who are killed by bandits, Boko Haram, or in tribal clashes are human beings. They are just like us.
“We need leaders who care about every person, no matter their religion, tribe, or region,” he added.
Kwankwaso maintained that protecting lives and property was a constitutional responsibility of the government.
“We need leaders who will protect the lives and property of the people of this country, and that is part of our Constitution.
“Any government that can’t do that isn’t a responsible government and doesn’t deserve to be in power again,” he declared.
He subsequently urged residents of Plateau State to participate in the election and vote for the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, as well as other candidates contesting under the NDC platform.
Kwankwaso expressed confidence that the people would turn out to support the candidates, urging them to defend their votes during the electoral process.
“You have to stand up for these votes. You’ve done it before, and I’m sure you will do it again,” he said.
