From Agaju Madugba, Katsina

Former vice president, Atiku Abubakar and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, brought Katsina metropolis to a standstill for several hours, yesterday, as he arrived the city for his campaign.

PDP supporters and his admirers trouped out enmass to welcome him at the Muhammadu Dikko stadium, on Mani road, venue of the rally.

The Katsina State government had earlier declined Atiku the use of the stadium for the programme, but Daily Sun learnt President Muhammadu Buhari waded into the matter and ordered Governor Aminu Masari to allow Atiku access to the venue.

The entire stretch of Kiddies Roundabout in the city centre leading to the stadium up to Mani road roundabout was filled with Atiku’s supporters. There was also a spill over from the stadium grounds and the main bowl.

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“I wish to assure the people of Katsina that l will address the menace of insecurity using whatever instrument of state at my disposal, if elected President in 2023,” Atiku told the rally.

He said community policing and other proactive security measures will be considered in the effort to talc insecurity.

“Criminal elements have been attacking rural communities as well as townships in the state with impunity. This has created an atmosphere of misgivings and palpable tension which is shaping the people’s  political decisions. Peasants in the entire state are disillusioned  with the  daily  incidences of kidnapping, killings, violent attacks and animal rustling. In October 2022 alone, over 40 people were killed while more than N300 million was paid as ransom in Katsina Central and Katsina South districts. If elected,  my government will create an environment that will  provide employment and fulfilment to youth and women  through education, mentorship, vocational training and technology and entrepreneurship initiatives.

“This will be done in collaboration with the private sector and the local communities and I wish   to reiterate my commitment to source $10 billion to empower the most vulnerable in society.  If elected President, I  will ensure that the incoming state government declares a state of emergency on primary and secondary education in the state. The  present state of education in Katsina  is not acceptable to the PDP. Katsina, being an ancient fountain of  knowledge deserves better and I am aware of the primary and secondary school educational system is at its lowest ebb now due to neglect.”

Atiku and his entourage had earlier visited the Emir’s palace as well as mother of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.