By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Mr Samuel Kato, is facing significant backlash for comments he made during a recent interview on TVC regarding the tragic drowning of six schoolchildren in the Ribang community.
In a statement issued by the National Public Relations Officer of the Ribang Development Association (RDA) in Kauru Local Government Area, Comrade Simon Chinge expressed that Kato’s remarks have sparked deep distress and frustration among community members.
During the interview, Kato claimed that the current administration had constructed a bridge in the Ribang area, where the tragic incident occurred. The RDA quickly refuted this assertion, stating that such a statement was untrue and deeply hurtful to the families affected by the tragedy and the Ribang community, which has been advocating for a bridge for years.
“The river that claimed these young lives is a daily reality for us due to the absence of a bridge,” the statement emphasised. “Temphasisedtherwise is an affront to our ongoing struggles.”
The RDA highlighted the long-standing neglect and marginalisation faced by the Ribang community, pointing out that their roads are nearly impassable, schools are underfunded and poorly equipped, and healthcare facilities are virtually nonexistent. These challenges have left the community feeling abandoned by those in power.
“Claiming that a bridge has been built in our community is misleading and dismisses the genuine pain and suffering we endure. This misinformation must be corrected immediately,” the statement asserted.
The Ribang Development Association demands that Engineer Samuel Kato retract his statement and issue a public apology within 24 hours. They believe such an apology is essential for restoring trust and acknowledging the ongoing struggles of their people. If the apology is not forthcoming, the RDA is prepared to explore all available options to hold Kato accountable for his remarks.
The community has called on all well-meaning individuals, particularly those from Southern Kaduna, to stand in solidarity with them as they seek justice and truth. “Our community deserves better, and we will continue to advocate for the development and recognition that has been long denied to us,” they stated.
Additionally, some commentators have voiced their dissatisfaction with Mr Kato’s leadership style, accusing him of acting contrary to the spirit of SOKAPU’s constitution and suggesting that he has turned the organisation into a mouthpiece for government statements.
