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| Muhammad Kabir Coordinator Tijjani Progressive Movement' Fielding Questions from Media men |
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| Shamsiyya Salisu Supervising a Group of Women and Youth of the Tijjani Progressive Movement' |
Hundreds of supporters from the "Tijjani Progressive Movement" took to the streets of Kaduna for the second week in a massive solidarity march. The group is formally calling on the prominent cleric and community leader, Sheikh (Dr) Ahmad Tijjani Umar, to contest the governorship of Kaduna State, citing a desperate need for a "tested and trusted" alternative to the current administration.
The demonstration, characterized by high energy and vocal dissatisfaction with the socio-economic state of the region, signals a growing grassroots push to shift the political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections.
Muhammad Kabir, the movement's coordinator, addressed the press during the rally, framing the mobilization as a necessary intervention by the youth to secure a viable future.
"We have gathered here today for the second week in succession because of the direction our government is taking and the hardships being imposed on us," Kabir stated. "We, the youth, have deliberated on who is truly capable of helping us—not just for today, but for the generations coming after us."
Kabir explained that after an extensive review of potential candidates, the group concluded that none, including those within the incumbent party possess the integrity and track record of Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar. He further suggested that the movement is prepared to take legal action to compel the Tijjani Ahmad to run if he does not voluntarily answer their call.
"If it means taking the matter to court, we will ensure he answers our plea to save Kaduna State," Kabir added.
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| A Cross Section of Participants of the Solidarity Movement |
Women Decry "Stomach Infrastructure" and Insecurity
The march featured a strong contingent of women, led by Shamsiyya Salisu of the Rigasa area. Shamsiyya delivered a scathing critique of traditional political tactics, specifically the distribution of food items like pasta (taliyah) to influence voters.
Shamsiyya noted that while women may accept food aid due to desperation, it no longer guarantees political loyalty.
She highlighted the ongoing trauma of kidnapping, stating that families live in constant fear of loved ones being snatched and held for ransom in the forests.
The leader described a state of "bitterness" among the populace, with many unable to afford basic meals or maintain a stable home life.
"We have woken up. In the past, we were in the dark, but now our eyes are open," Salisu said. She argued that Sheikh Tijjani’s existing philanthropic work with orphans and the needy serves as a "Wednesday" omen, referring to the proverb that a good Friday is known by its Wednesday indicating he would govern with the same compassion.
The emergence of the 'Tijjani Progressive Movement' adds a layer of complexity to Kaduna's political environment, the movement is tapping into deep-seated frustrations with the conventional political class.
However, the momentum from today’s rally suggests that the pressure for his Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar's candidacy will continue to build as the election cycle intensifies.