A Kano-based lawyer and politician, Barrister Salisu Salisu Umar, has accused the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, of deliberately frustrating the confirmation of Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
Addressing journalists in Kano, Barr. Umar alleged that Senator Barau’s opposition stems from envy and a lack of commitment to the revival of Kano’s moribund industries and youth development efforts.
“Most of our industries have collapsed due to poor electricity supply, and many women’s small-scale businesses have also suffered. Instead of supporting solutions that could revive these sectors, Barau is working to ensure Ramat is not confirmed. His actions show he doesn’t want Kano to progress,” Umar stated.
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He described Ramat’s nomination as a symbol of hope for young Nigerians, particularly those from Kano, warning that attempts to block his confirmation would be viewed as opposition to the advancement of youth and the state’s industrial revival.
“If Ramat loses the NERC chairmanship, we will mobilize against Barau politically — whether in Kano North, South, or Central — even if he contests for governor or president. We will ensure he is retired politically,” Umar vowed.
The lawyer further criticized Barau’s approach to Kano’s federal appointments, describing it as self-serving. He said while many positions given to Kano indigenes were minor, the NERC chairmanship was one that could genuinely benefit the people, making Barau’s resistance particularly disappointing.