I can’t steal to please you, Niger lawmaker tells constituents

The House of Representatives member representing Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency of Niger State, Joshua Audu Gana, has stoutly defended his inability to deliver on constituency projects, stating that he would not steal to meet public demands. The remarks, on Tuesday at a stakeholders’ meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Mokwa Local Council of the state, followed growing dissatisfaction from local party leaders. Among those expressing concerns over his stewardship was Alhaji Suleiman Kupanti, the PDP Chairman in the area, who had criticised his performance.

In his address, Gana clarified that some of the expectations placed upon him were not realistic, underscoring that public office comes with complex structures and varying levels of responsibility. The lawmaker assured the stakeholders that, although he may not be able to fulfil every request, he would redirect their concerns to the appropriate channels. “I thank God I am not God,” Gana declared, explaining that he could not meet all the expectations of his constituents.



“The money in public office is not my father’s money. It is government money, and when you want to score me, look at the national budget and the allocation for our constituency. Only when projects are fully funded, can you hold me accountable,” he added.

Responding to accusations that he had failed to deliver due to a lack of funding, Gana suggested that his position in the opposition might be a contributing factor. He pointed out that the ruling APC controls most of the allocations. Comparing his situation to that of the previous administration when the PDP was in power, the legislator stated that the current political landscape had made a significant difference in project funding.

The remarks have, however, sparked criticism from his constituents, some of whom expressed frustration with his response, and demanded more action, rather than complaints. Amid the dissent, Gana’s supporters have promised to learn from the situation, as they reassess his leadershipmoving forward..