A Facebook user recently claimed that the Emir of Katsina, Abdulmumini Usman, rejected President Bola Tinubu's campaign group due to worsening hunger and insecurity in Nigeria. The claim was shared in a video with an overlaid clip showing a crowd of men seated on the floor, with a notable figure on an elevated chair. However, Dubawa's verification found no credible evidence to support this claim.
According to an ARISE News report published on October 23, 2026, the Emir received Abdulaziz Yari, Director-General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council, and his delegation at his palace. The visit was part of consultations ahead of President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid. During the meeting, the Emir criticized politicians for making promises they cannot fulfill and warned that they will be held accountable.
The Emir emphasized that traditional rulers have a responsibility to speak the truth to political leaders and cautioned politicians against prioritizing personal interests over the needs of the people. He also expressed concern that political divisions were weakening unity in the North-West region of Nigeria. Furthermore, the Emir lamented the decline of industries and agriculture in Northern Nigeria and questioned the silence of Northern elders over the region's challenges.
Other news platforms, including Daily Post Nigeria, The Cable, Daily Trust, and The Whistleblower, shared similar reports, none of which stated that the Emir rejected the campaign group. Instead, they confirmed that the Emir received the delegation and offered advice. The reports highlighted the Emir's concerns about the welfare of the people and the need for politicians to prioritize their needs.
Dubawa's findings show no evidence to support the claim that the Emir rejected Tinubu's campaign group. The verification process involved conducting keyword searches and reviewing reports from various news platforms. The results confirm that the Emir received the APC campaign group and used the opportunity to raise concerns and offer advice.
The incident highlights the importance of verifying information before sharing it, especially on social media. The Facebook user who made the claim seemed to have been cheered by others, with some users commenting in support of the claim. However, Dubawa's verification has set the record straight, confirming that the Emir did not reject the campaign group.
The Emir's criticism of politicians for unfulfilled promises and his emphasis on prioritizing public welfare over displays of wealth and foreign travel are significant. As the 2027 elections approach, the Emir's comments are likely to resonate with many Nigerians who are concerned about the performance of politicians. The incident also underscores the role of traditional rulers in speaking truth to power and holding politicians accountable.
Key points
- The Emir of Katsina received Tinubu's campaign group and criticized politicians for unfulfilled promises.
- The claim that the Emir rejected the campaign group is false.
- The Emir emphasized the need for politicians to prioritize public welfare over personal interests.
