By Miriam Humbe
Honourable Hussaini Garba Maisukwati is aspiring for the House of Representatives in Taraba State on the ticket of the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) in the 2027 General Elections. Seeking to represent the people of Lau, Karim Lamido and Ardo Kolla Federal Constituency, he tells Humsi Media Online that with his calibre of lawmakers, Nigerians will definitely have confidence in the quality of legislation from the 11th National Assembly. Excerpts:
What sparked your interest to join politics?
My Interest is to give a good and proper representation to my Constituents in the green Chamber. Someone has to be there to do the job. In this case, my people know that I have what it takes and they have been urging me to take up the responsibility to represent them. Again, I saw that my constituency needs to have a genuine voice in government decisions.
How has the journey been so far?
The Journey so far is good because I have won the primaries and I’m optimistic by the grace of God I will win in the general election. The people of my constituency have confidence in me. They trust in my abilities to deliver when given responsibility.
What prompted you to run for the House of Representatives in the coming election?
What prompted me to run for the position of House of Representatives is because of my belief that someone like me who has the capacity, is outspoken and with the required exposure should be in the Green Chamber and represent his constituents; because there is a vacuum that needs to be filled.
How fair is the Nigerian political environment to the youths?
The political environment is clear, its only that the youths are afraid of joining politics but we’re advising them to come and join because through that, we can bring the desired change in Nigeria.
What are the main needs and concerns of your Constituents which you’ll like to address at the House of Representatives?
My Constituents are facing serious challenges but for now, I will want to mention just a few:
A. Lack of roads infrastructure and some basic amenities
B. Unemployment rate is high
C. Security issues
D. Empowerment and etc.
What will you say to critics who allege that the current National Assembly is a rubber stamp, and simply doing the bidding of the Executive arm of government?
Well, as for the issue of allegedly being a rubber stamp, I can not say much but I believe it is not good for the National Assembly to be a rubber stamp. This is because there are supposed to be checks and balances, but when we get there, for the 2027-2031 National Assembly, we’ll definitely correct the wrongs so that Nigerian people will have confidence in our legislation!
As a youth, what is your advice to other youths on participating in politics?
Politics is important, and a way to have a say in the way we are led, so let our fellow youths know this, and embrace politics. Come out and seek political office. Vote for leaders who are tested and trusted. Youths must be ready to positively make a difference in our country.
With your proven leadership skills, how have you been grooming fellow youths to embrace politics and leadership?
I have been grooming my fellow youths to embrace politics by giving them good and sound advice on taking up leadership positions and utilising such positions for the benefit of the people. I tell them that leadership positions are about service, and politics is a way of getting such leadership positions in a democracy. Another way is by encouraging them to take appointments into various capacities that they can show-case their talents.
What campaign will you put forward at the National Assembly towards stabilising Taraba State, and reducing the spate of insecurity?
Fighting insecurity is my watchword. We all need and desire a sane society where our lives can thrive in peace and harmony. It is my strong belief that without security, people will be unable to go to the farms and by so doing, food insecurity will definitely increase. Hunger is a menace that no society needs. It drives people to desperation. So we must bring an end to insecurity, which is destabilizing our communities. I will advocate for the passing of laws and their implementation in order to end insecurity.
