Kaduna State Assembly aspirant, Hon. Tom Garba
An aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Lere West Constituency seat in the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Tom Garba, has declared his intention to contest, decrying what he described as years of ineffective representation in the area.
Garba, a native of Lere Local Government Area, said his ambition is rooted in a long-standing desire to reposition the constituency through quality legislative engagement and people-oriented representation.
“This is not a sudden ambition. It is something we have nurtured over time with a clear vision. Our people deserve better representation,” he said.
He expressed dissatisfaction with what he termed a widening gap in the delivery of democratic dividends to the people, noting that recent legislative performance in the constituency has fallen short of expectations.
“Looking back, there were periods of meaningful representation, but in recent years, the story has not been encouraging. There is a clear gap in the benefits our people are receiving,” he stated.
The aspirant further alleged that the constituency has had representation for over a decade without tangible legislative outcomes.
“For about 12 years, we have had representation that cannot point to a single impactful motion or bill that translated into law for the benefit of our people. That is simply representation without impact,” he said.
Garba also raised concerns over internal party processes, warning against attempts to impose candidates under the guise of consensus arrangements.
“Our party provides for primaries or consensus, but it is wrong for anyone to claim to be an ‘anointed candidate.’ Anointed by who? Such claims must be clarified,” he said.
While expressing openness to a consensus option, he insisted that any such arrangement must be transparent, inclusive, and agreed upon by all stakeholders.
“So far, I have not been invited to any consensus meeting, but I am open to a credible and transparent process where everyone is carried along,” he added.
He dismissed rumours allegedly being circulated against him and other aspirants, describing them as politically motivated and aimed at creating division within the party.
“These rumours are baseless and driven by those trying to exploit religious and ethnic sentiments for political gain,” he said.
Garba maintained that he would not compromise his principles in pursuit of political office.
“I am in this race with my integrity intact. My conscience is not for sale. I am not here for negotiation—I am here for the ballot. If I win, I win; if I lose, I lose,” he declared.
He cautioned that unresolved internal wrangling within the APC could weaken its electoral chances, especially in the face of a resurgent opposition.
“If we fail to manage our internal issues and present credible candidates, we risk losing this election,” he warned.
On his legislative agenda, Garba said he would prioritise economic development, agriculture, and healthcare, stressing the untapped potential in Kaduna State.
“Kaduna has vast agricultural and mineral resources. Take ginger production, for instance it can attract foreign investment if supported by the right legislation,” he said.
He also highlighted the economic prospects in mineral resources such as clay, which he said could be developed into viable industries capable of generating employment and boosting internally generated revenue.
“With the right legal framework, Kaduna can achieve rapid economic growth. I am committed to sponsoring bills that will drive development not only in Kaduna but across Nigeria,” he said.
On inclusiveness, the aspirant called for equitable political participation across all segments of society.
“Democracy must promote inclusion and fairness. It should never be about sectional or tribal dominance,” he said.
Garba also defended the involvement of journalists in politics, noting that the profession equips individuals with a deep understanding of governance and societal needs.
“Journalism is a noble profession. Many respected leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, were journalists. They understood the people and governance,” he said.
He added that his nearly two decades of experience in journalism, combined with his background in business and entrepreneurship, have prepared him for effective representation.
“I have the grassroots support and the capacity to serve. I am ready to deliver,” he said.
Garba urged party leaders, including the state governor, to take decisions that would strengthen the APC ahead of the elections.
“I call on our leaders to act wisely in the interest of the party and ensure we emerge stronger and victorious,” he said.
