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From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, has paid N7 million being the withheld entitlements of a former chairman of Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Fa’izu Alfindiki, following what he described as an unjust action by the Kano State Government.
The payment was made on Tuesday evening at the National Assembly, Abuja, where Senator Barau personally issued a cheque to the former local government chairman.
Speaking while presenting the cheque, Senator Barau said the denial of Alfindiki’s entitlements was unacceptable and amounted to a violation of democratic principles, stressing that constructive criticism should not attract punishment.
He described Alfindiki’s ordeal as unfortunate, noting that he was denied his legitimate benefits simply for standing by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and expressing views critical of the state government.
According to the Deputy Senate President, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, freedom of speech and association remain central to democracy and must be protected at all levels of governance.
“Constructive criticism, like that of Fa’izu Alfindiki, is the lubricant of democracy. Without it, this system of government will not flourish,” Barau said. He added that punishing individuals for their political views or affiliations undermines democratic growth and sets a dangerous precedent.
Reacting after receiving the cheque, Alfindiki expressed gratitude to Senator Barau, saying he had no regrets speaking out against the Kano State Government. He described the intervention as a clear demonstration of the APC’s commitment to standing by its members, even in difficult circumstances.
“I want to sincerely thank the Deputy President of the Senate for this great honour. This singular act once again proves that the APC is a party to stand with and a platform worthy of dedication and sacrifice,” Alfindiki said.
He added that he remained confident from the outset that the party would support him, noting that the gesture had justified that confidence.
