Northern Leaders Criticized For Failing To Develop The Region After Decades In Power

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has criticized northern Nigerian leaders for neglecting the development of the region despite holding political power for over 40 years.

Speaking at a town hall meeting for Christian leaders in northern Nigeria, Dogara highlighted the persistent poverty in the region, attributing it to the failure of its leaders to implement meaningful developmental projects. The event, themed “Church and Society: Tax Reforms and Matters Arising,” provided a platform for discussions on governance and societal growth.

Dogara rejected claims that President Bola Tinubu or southern Nigeria posed a threat to the North, urging northern citizens to reflect on the region’s challenges.

“We must acknowledge that President Tinubu or the South is not our problem. The notion that they are here to cheat us is simply untrue. Yes, some argue that Yoruba people are securing more appointments, but let’s look inward.

“For over 40 years, northern leaders were in charge of this country. What did we accomplish? The North remains underdeveloped and plagued by poverty—this is the result of our own leadership,” Dogara asserted.

The former Speaker’s remarks highlight the need for introspection and accountability among northern leaders to address the region’s lingering challenges.