A statement from Hon. Dalhatu Ezekiel Musa, PhD, MNPA, on the calls for him to offer himself for service on behalf of the Federal Capital Territory.
I have received, with humility, the many voices calling on me to offer myself for service on behalf of the Federal Capital Territory. That support was not organised by me, and I do not treat it lightly.
I hear the concerns of our indigenous communities, and I hear equally the concerns of every resident who has made the territory their home. I do not believe those two sets of concerns are in conflict.
I am not blind to the hardship, deprivation and injustice that many households continue to face. Nor am I willing to speak about them casually, or to use them as material for a political contest.
“Criticism of institutions must never become an attack on persons.”
I am taking this period to pray, to consult widely and to listen — to elders, to young people, to women's groups, to traditional institutions, to professionals and to ordinary residents in every area council.
I will not permit disrespectful comparison with those who have served before me or who serve today. Their contributions belong to the record of this territory, and criticism of institutions must never become an attack on persons.
Our aspirations are collective. Whatever decision follows these consultations, it will be announced publicly, clearly and in my own words.
Until then, I ask only this: keep speaking, and I will keep listening.
Hon. Dalhatu Ezekiel Musa, PhD, MNPA
Ezekiel Dalhatu Campaign Organisation (DEM Movement)