Senator Girei Scores Tinubu High, Backs State Police, Commends Fintiri’s Courageous Leadership

May 15, 2025

YOLA, NIGERIA — Former Senator and prominent APC chieftain, Abubakar Girei, has given President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a “pass mark” for his performance in office, urging Nigerians to be patient with ongoing economic reforms while calling for urgent restructuring of the country’s security architecture, including the creation of state police.

In a recent exclusive interview, Senator Girei praised Tinubu’s policy direction in areas like agriculture and security, highlighting the administration’s willingness to take bold, though unpopular, steps to correct Nigeria’s economic course.

“Despite the hardship, President Tinubu has shown leadership. His decision to allocate over N1.5 trillion to agriculture shows he’s listening. There are visible efforts in security and the economy. I give him a pass mark,” Girei said.

The former lawmaker admitted that Nigerians are experiencing difficulties due to subsidy removal, forex instability, and rising electricity tariffs, but emphasized that long-term benefits are underway.

Calls for State Police and Multi-Layered Security

Senator Girei strongly advocated for decentralized policing, stating that a centralized federal police system has proven inadequate in addressing local security challenges.

“We need community, local, state, and federal police. Without local engagement, we can’t fight insecurity effectively. I’ve supported state police since 2003,” he stated.

Girei also linked the nation’s insecurity to weak local government structures, calling for full autonomy and better funding for grassroots governance.

Opposition Weakness and EFCC Allegations

Responding to claims that the ruling APC is pushing Nigeria toward a one-party state, Senator Girei said the strength or weakness of the opposition is not the ruling party’s responsibility.

“Every party wants to grow. APC isn’t responsible if others are disorganized. Defections are constitutional. It’s part of politics,” he argued.

On the EFCC allegedly being used to intimidate opposition figures, Girei dismissed the allegations, noting that such accusations have always followed anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.

“Unless wrongdoing is proven in court, it’s just speculation. EFCC’s work shouldn’t be politicized,” he said.

Reconciliation Within Adamawa APC

On developments within the Adamawa State chapter of the APC, Senator Girei revealed that NSA Mallam Nuhu Ribadu is leading efforts to unify the party ahead of the next general election.

“Our reconciliation committee has submitted its report. Once implemented, APC in Adamawa will regain its strength. Even Governor Fintiri might join us eventually,” he said with optimism.

Commendation for Fintiri on New Chiefdoms

Despite being in the opposition, Girei lauded Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for creating seven new chiefdoms across Adamawa State, calling the move “bold and commendable.”

“Communities like Hong and Dumne have waited for decades. What Fintiri did takes courage. Even former Governor Bala Ngilari once said he wished he had the guts to do it,” Girei remarked.

While acknowledging controversy in areas like Fufore, where legal battles have emerged, he urged residents to seek redress peacefully and legally, noting that the courts should have the final say.

Mixed Review of Fintiri’s Development Agenda

On the governor’s overall performance, Girei said the administration has made a visible impact, especially in Yola, though he personally would have prioritized education and healthcare over infrastructure.

“There’s impact, no doubt. But I would have focused on education and health before building flyovers. That said, he’s laying a foundation others can build on,” he said.

Girei pointed to infrastructure like the Mubi bypass and bridges in Michika and Madagali as evidence that development may be reaching rural communities.

Senator Girei’s comments reflect a blend of national loyalty to the APC, policy insight on governance, and balanced local commentary on the Fintiri administration. As 2027 approaches, his remarks signal both confidence in Tinubu’s reforms and APC’s determination to reclaim Adamawa State.