‘Even Buhari Couldn’t End Insecurity’ — Yari Defends Tinubu

Former Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari, has defended President Bola Tinubu over Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, arguing that even former President Muhammadu Buhari, a retired Army General, could not completely eliminate insecurity during his eight-year administration.

Yari made the remarks on Monday during a visit to Kebbi State, where he met Governor Nasir Idris, traditional rulers and All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders to mobilise support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“If a retired general did his best but could not completely tackle insecurity, what do you expect of President Tinubu, who is not a general? Nevertheless, the President has done his utmost best to address the security challenges confronting the country,” Yari said.

The former governor maintained that Tinubu had made efforts to address the security situation, urging Nigerians to recognise the challenges involved and support the administration’s efforts.

Yari also commended Idris and other APC leaders for their mobilisation efforts, expressing confidence in the party’s preparations for the 2027 elections.

“We are leading the campaign for the President’s re-election and other candidates of our party. We appreciate you for bringing the emirs together under one umbrella at the Emir of Gwandu’s palace,” he said.

He further praised governors and party stakeholders for their contributions to the APC’s electoral ambitions, adding that the campaign council would work with individuals and groups willing to support Tinubu’s re-election, irrespective of their positions.

On the economy, Yari acknowledged the hardship facing Nigerians but argued that the challenges were not peculiar to the country. He cited reported declines in inflation and fertiliser prices, alongside cash transfers to vulnerable households, as measures intended to ease the burden on citizens.

He urged Nigerians to support Tinubu’s development agenda, stressing that addressing insecurity required collective responsibility.

Meanwhile, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris reaffirmed his administration’s support for Tinubu, pointing to federal government projects and the influence of prominent political figures from the state.

“We have no reason not to support the President. We have prominent leaders such as Sen. Atiku Bagudu, Sen. Adamu Aliero and Amb. Saidu Dakingari,” Idris said.

He also expressed confidence in the APC’s political strength in Kebbi, declaring the state’s support for the ruling party and the President ahead of the 2027 elections.

Yari’s comments come amid continuing national concerns over banditry, kidnappings and other security threats, with the debate over the Federal Government’s response expected to remain a major issue in the run-up to the next general elections.