In a letter dated August 5, 2024, the constituents of Katsina North Senatorial District have formally requested the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to initiate a recall process for their current senator, Ahmad Babba, citing poor representation and failure to address their concerns.Â
The letter, signed by Zaharaddeen L. Kafin’soli, Chairman of Concerned Citizens, Katsina North Senatorial District, underscores the constitutional right of the constituents under Section 69 to recall an ineffective elected official.
“Dear Professor Mahmood Yakubu,” the letter begins, addressing the INEC Chairman, “I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to bring your esteemed attention to the urgent matter of recalling the representative of Katsina North Senatorial District, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.”
The constituents expressed their dissatisfaction with the performance of Senator Ahmad Babba, noting a significant lack of engagement and failure to address their concerns.
They argue that the senator has consistently failed to fulfill his campaign pledges, compromising the welfare and development of the constituency.
“The incumbent senator has consistently failed to fulfill their campaign pledges, compromising the welfare and development of our constituency,” the letter states.
Specific allegations against the senator include a disregard for the constituents’ welfare and a failure to present their concerns in the legislative chambers.
The letter continues, “This lack of engagement has led to a decline in the delivery of basic amenities, as well as the inability to create and implement impactful development projects.”
In addition to these failings, the letter cites several cases of gross misconduct by the senator. “Such disregard for our needs demonstrates a clear departure from the ideals of representation and undermines the principles of a democratic society,” it asserts.
The breach of trust is a significant point of contention for the constituents. “The inability to fulfill the promises made has resulted in disillusionment and an erosion of faith in the democratic process itself,” the letter explains.
The call for a recall was made with a sense of urgency. “We, the undersigned constituents of Katsina North Senatorial District, humbly request the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct a recall process as stipulated under Section 69 of the constitution.”
The letter concludes with a plea for INEC to take swift action. “We kindly urge the Independent National Electoral Commission to undertake the necessary steps prescribed by the constitution and hold a referendum to determine our collective will regarding the recall of the current senator,” it says.
The constituents express confidence in the impartiality and fairness of INEC in handling the matter. “We are confident that with your impartial guidance, this process will be conducted fairly and transparently, allowing the constituents’ voice to prevail in this matter of utmost importance,” the letter states.
The letter further emphasizes the importance of a prompt response and actions to address their concerns.
 “We eagerly await your prompt response and actions to address our concerns. We trust in your commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring the voice of every Nigerian citizen is heard and duly attended to.”
With this formal request, the constituents of Katsina North Senatorial District are hopeful that their grievances will be addressed and that the democratic process will ensure their representation in the Senate meets their expectations and needs.
