Opinion: ‘You Cannot Be Judge and Accused’ — Bago Supporters Push Back Against Bello Camp’s Criticism
By Fodio Ahmed (1PenSpeaks)
A fresh exchange between supporters of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and members of the political structure associated with former Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has highlighted growing tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State ahead of the 2027 political cycle.
The debate followed a recent media chat by Governor Bago in which he referenced "betrayal" in the state's political landscape. In response, members of the Bello political camp rejected the characterization, describing it as an attempt to rewrite political history and divert attention from governance issues.
In an opinion article authored by Fodio Ahmed (1Pen), the writer challenges the Bello camp's response and argues that demands for accountability should not be directed solely at the current administration.
The commentary contends that claims by the Bello camp regarding political support provided to Bago during the 2023 election cycle overlook the governor's own political experience and network developed over multiple terms in the House of Representatives.
According to the opinion piece, efforts to portray political support as detached from subsequent political developments fail to reflect the realities of party politics and power dynamics within the APC.
The article also addresses questions raised by the Bello camp regarding the performance of the Bago administration. While acknowledging that governments should be held accountable for public spending and project implementation, the writer argues that similar scrutiny should be applied to the eight-year administration of former Governor Bello.
Among the issues highlighted are outstanding gratuities, contractor payments, infrastructure projects, and public access to government performance records. The commentary suggests that comparative assessments of both administrations should be based on documented project outcomes and financial records.
The opinion further challenges comparisons between government revenues received during Bello's tenure and those available under the Bago administration, arguing that economic conditions have changed significantly due to inflation, foreign exchange reforms, and the removal of fuel subsidies.
According to the writer, evaluating government performance solely through revenue figures without considering broader economic realities may present an incomplete picture of public finance and project delivery.
The article also reflects on issues of democratic accountability and freedom of expression, arguing that political actors should maintain consistent positions on criticism and public scrutiny whether in government or opposition.
Concluding the piece, Ahmed maintains that no political group should serve simultaneously as both evaluator and subject of evaluation, urging political stakeholders to publish verifiable records of their stewardship and allow citizens to make informed judgments.
The opinion comes amid ongoing discussions over governance, political legacy, and party leadership within the APC in Niger State.
Disclaimer: This opinion article was written by Fodio Ahmed (1PenSpeaks). The views, opinions, arguments, and claims expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of Lapai TV.
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