The Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umaru Faruq Bahago, has denied reports attributed to him in which he allegedly urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to probe past leaders and administrations in the country.
The traditional ruler’s rebuttal was contained in a statement signed on his behalf by the Secretary of Minna Emirate Council, Alhaji Garba Kuta, and made available to journalists in Minna on Saturday.
He explained that the statement was made by one of the turbaned chiefs in the emirate, Malam Musa Maikudi (Achaza), the Hadimin Minna, who was misquoted in the news reports during a citizen sensitisation event.
The Emir disclosed that the turbaned chief was calling on the president to intensify the probe of past leaders and administrations in the country to recover looted funds.
” The event was to sensitise citizens on federal government intervention programmes at the state and local government levels organised by the office of the Minister of Information and National Orientation in Minna.
The royal father stated that he was neutral concerning matters of politics in Niger State and the country, saying that as a traditional ruler, he is a father to all and would not side with any social or political group.
Bahago also reaffirmed his and the emirate’s unwavering support for the administration of President Tinubu and enjoined the president to remain focused in his drive to reposition the country’s economy.
“Our goal is to see that Nigeria progresses in all areas of human endeavour regardless of who or the political party in power.
“And I charge all district heads and turbaned chiefs in my domain to also remain neutral and refrain from commenting on issues on my behalf without seeking prior approval and clearance,” he maintained.
Furthermore, the emir commended the ongoing war against banditry and terrorism in the state, particularly in Minna emirate, to safeguard communities whose major activity of farming is affected while commending Governor Umaru Bago for his developmental strides and the ongoing infrastructure development in the state.