Uses Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as Reference
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A coalition of concerned natives from Lere Local Government Area (LGA) in Kaduna State has strongly reaffirmed their cultural and historical ties to Southern Kaduna and their membership in the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU).
The statement, signed by Comrade Stephen Sale, Comrade Engr. S.I Mori, and Comrade Bitrus Elisha, was issued in response to claims made by the Lere Local Government Unity Association Forum, which disputed the categorization of Lere’s political leaders as members of Southern Kaduna during the Southern Kaduna Cultural Festival (SKFEST) held in December 2024.
The Unity Association, led by Barrister Nasiru Bello Dembo and Secretary Mal. Ahmed Idris, had argued that Lere LGA belongs politically to the Northern Senatorial District and should not be identified with Southern Kaduna. They warned against what they described as improper categorizations during public events, urging organizers to avoid creating confusion.
Coalition’s Rebuttal
In a detailed rebuttal, the coalition acknowledged the political placement of Lere in the Northern Senatorial District but emphasized that this classification does not negate their historical, cultural, and emotional ties to Southern Kaduna.
“We are unequivocally part of Southern Kaduna,” the coalition declared, referencing the deep historical and cultural roots shared by Lere and Southern Kaduna communities, dating back to the Nok civilization over 500 years ago. They pointed out that the current political structures, designed to fragment communities, cannot erase these bonds.
The coalition highlighted that Lere and Kauru LGAs were part of the old Saminaka LGA before its division in 1989 for strategic political realignments. They argued that the historical connection to Southern Kaduna remains intact, despite these administrative changes.
Affiliation with SOKAPU
The coalition stressed that their affiliation with SOKAPU is a matter of personal and cultural identity. They noted that political officeholders from Lere, referenced during SKFEST, did not deny their Southern Kaduna roots, even if political reasons influenced their silence.
The group also addressed freedom of association, questioning why their membership in SOKAPU has caused discomfort for the Unity Association. They challenged any investigative authority to verify the historical facts supporting their claims.
The coalition listed various ethnic groups in Lere LGA, including Amo, Piti, Kinugu, Kahugu, Akurmi, Gure, Dingi, Janji, Lemoro, and Jere, all of whom have participated in SOKAPU activities for decades.
Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as Reference
Drawing a parallel with Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who traced his roots to Mauritania while retaining his Nigerian citizenship, the coalition argued that their identification with Southern Kaduna is equally valid. They called on political leaders, including Senators Ibrahim Khalid and Sunday Marshall Katung, to champion a bill addressing the political restructuring of their region.
Call for Action
The coalition criticized the Unity Association’s press statement as an attempt to undermine their identity and defend political leaders who avoid addressing the issue. They reaffirmed their determination to uphold their cultural and historical affiliations with Southern Kaduna, calling on leaders to protect their rights and interests.
The statement concluded with a strong message: “We are firmly part of Southern Kaduna and SOKAPU. No external pressures can rewrite this historical fact.”
The SKFEST event, which promotes cultural unity and patriotism, was praised as a platform for fostering harmony and inclusive governance. Leaders such as Governor Uba Sani, Governor Diri Douyi of Bayelsa State, and Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State have all supported its peace-building objectives.
The coalition’s statement reflects the resilience and determination of the people of Lere LGA to assert their identity and heritage, standing firm against any attempts to undermine their ties to Southern Kaduna.
