Members of a non-political group, the Katsina Elders’ Forum,  have distanced themselves from a statement made by the group’s secretary, Mohammed Aliyu, regarding Prof. Usman Yusuf’s arrest.

At a recent press conference, Mr Aliyu threatened that the people of Katsina would not support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Mr Yusuf, a former National Health Insurance Scheme boss, was arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Justice Sadiq Abdullahi-Mahuta, a member of the forum and Galadima Katsina, made their stance known during a briefing with journalists in Katsina on Saturday.

Mr Abdullahi-Mahuta, also the District Head of Malumfashi, clarified that the forum was not opposed to calls for Mr Yusuf’s release.He, however, said that the group disapproved of the political nature of Mr Aliyu’s statement.

He said, “This is not an elder’s language. It is not our position. We completely dissociate the Katsina Elders Forum from this statement. Our forum is not for politics. We are a group of respected elders concerned about the development and progress of the state and Nigeria. We are not part of the statement calling for Yusuf’s release or claiming the people of Katsina would not vote for the president in the upcoming elections.’’

 According to him, Mr Yusuf’s arrest and detention is not the solution; he should either be released or face a fair trial in court.

Mr Abdullahi-Mahuta stressed that it was their right to make such calls, adding, “Thanks to Almighty Allah, he has been released.”

He stated that the purpose of the briefing was to make their stance clear — that they wee not part of the political statement and that justice should prevail.

The district head further emphasised that every individual has the right to support and vote for any candidate they believe will meet their needs.

Another forum member, Ali Dangiwa, stated that one of their constitution’s key objectives was to avoid interference in politics.

He said, “Therefore, if any member claims the forum has made a political statement, it is a misrepresentation. Something went wrong at the secretariat, which led to this situation.” 

(NAN)