Maraya Under Fire for Comparing Tinubu’s Three Years to Sardauna’s Legacy

Coalition of northern advocacy groups, including Gamji Global Network Forum and Mu Ceto Arewa Daga Durkushewa, has strongly criticized remarks attributed to Islamic scholar Malam Maraya regarding the legacy of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello.
In an open letter released in Kaduna, the groups expressed disappointment over comments allegedly made during an event attended by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, in which Maraya was said to have compared the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration with those of the late Sardauna.
The groups described the comparison as unfair and historically inaccurate, arguing that Sir Ahmadu Bello’s contributions to education, regional development, industrialization and unity in Northern Nigeria remain unmatched decades after his death. They cited institutions such as Ahmadu Bello University and several development initiatives associated with the Sardauna’s administration as evidence of his enduring impact.
According to the statement, the late northern leader’s legacy continues to influence generations through educational institutions, economic development projects and his vision of unity among the diverse peoples of Northern Nigeria.
The coalition further alleged that the remarks had generated widespread dissatisfaction among many northerners, who regard the Sardauna as one of the region’s most respected historical figures. They called on Maraya to retract the statement and offer an apology to the family of the late statesman and the people of the North.
Reaffirming their commitment to preserving Northern history, the groups urged citizens, especially younger generations, to study and protect the legacies of leaders whose contributions helped shape the region.
They also appealed for caution in public discourse, stressing that political commentary should not come at the expense of historical facts or the reputation of revered national figures.
The statement concluded with a call for unity, respect for history and continued appreciation of the contributions of Sir Ahmadu Bello to the development of Northern Nigeria.