Allegations have emerged in Kano’s political circles accusing Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, of halting the appointment of Kano indigenes to positions within the Hadeja Jama’are River Basin Authority.

However, investigations reveal that these claims are unfounded and unrelated to Senator Barau’s actions.

The Federal Government had announced the reconstitution of the executive management of the 12 RBDAs on December 18, 2024. The appointees from Kano are Engr. Rabiu Suleiman Bichi (Managing Director), Baffa Dandatti Abdulkadir (Executive Director, Engineering), and Hon. Musa Iliyasu Kwankwaso (Executive Director, Finance).

On December 23, 2024, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) released a statement in Abuja raising concerns over the appointment of unqualified individuals to critical engineering roles within the River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) under the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

Signed by NSE President Margaret Oguntala, the statement noted that many appointees to key positions, such as Executive Director of Engineering and Executive Director of Planning and Design, lacked the professional qualifications and expertise required for these roles.

The NSE’s review of the appointments revealed that only four of the 12 executive director positions were filled by certified engineers.

“This press statement is issued to express our deep concerns regarding the implications of these appointments for the future of Nigeria’s water resources management and sustainable development.”

However, the NSE criticized the lack of adherence to professional standards in the selection process, warning that this could jeopardize the effective management of the country’s water resources.

The NSE’s objections to the appointments are unrelated to the alleged interference of Senator Barau in Kano appointments.

Investigations confirm that Senator Barau had no involvement in the selection process and remains focused on his legislative responsibilities.

Sources close to Senator Barau clarified that he is committed to fair governance and the development of Kano State and Nigeria at large, distancing him from any claims of political interference in the RBDA appointments.

As the debate continues, stakeholders are encouraged to focus on merit and professionalism, ensuring the effective delivery of services critical to Nigeria’s growth and development.