ASHENEWS reports that Honorable Joshua Audu Gana, the House of Representatives member for Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Constituency, has stirred controversy after telling his constituents that their demands for constituency projects will not make him resort to stealing.
Addressing PDP stakeholders on Tuesday in Mokwa Local Government Area, Gana dismissed criticisms over his performance, stating that he is not God and cannot fulfill all expectations.
His remarks came in response to dissatisfaction expressed by party stakeholders, including PDP Local Government Chairman Alhaji Suleiman Kupanti.
Gana argued that many of the expectations placed on him were beyond his legislative responsibilities, emphasizing that governance is structured across different tiers. However, he assured stakeholders that he would channel their concerns to the appropriate authorities.
“I thank God that I am not God. I cannot answer all your prayers. It is only God who answers prayers,” Gana stated. “The money in public office is not my father’s money; it is not my personal money; it is government money. If you want to score me, check the national budget and see if projects for Lavun/Mokwa/Edati were fully funded before questioning me.”
Defending his record, he added, “No funds have been allocated for constituency projects. Do you expect me to steal? My father was not a thief, my family are not thieves, and I will not become one just to meet expectations.”
Gana also suggested that his party affiliation might be affecting funding, saying, “The ruling party is APC, and I am in the opposition. Comparing my tenure to when PDP was in power is unfair.”
His remarks have triggered backlash among constituents, who accused him of making excuses instead of delivering results. Some questioned why other lawmakers, including opposition members, had executed projects while he claimed to have received no funds.
Judah Yisa, a resident, criticized Gana’s response, saying, “This is not how a politician should talk. If you can’t continue, resign. Respect is earned, not demanded.”
Kabiru Pelemi also condemned the remarks, describing them as “irresponsible.” He questioned, “Where are other lawmakers getting money for projects? Even if you don’t have funds, is this how to speak to your people?”
Habiba Aminu expressed disappointment, noting that Gana did not even attempt to address his audience in Nupe to connect with them. “Isn’t it his job to ensure funds are released? Now it’s up to the constituents to vote him out,” she said.
Adding to the criticism, the Honourable Joshua Audu Gana Media Watchdog group distanced itself from his remarks, calling them “unfortunate and inappropriate.”
In a statement, the group apologized to constituents, acknowledging their frustration and vowing to work towards better representation in the future.
The statement, titled “A Message to Our Constituents Regarding Hon. Joshua Audu Gana,” read, “Despite our support, Hon. Gana has chosen a disappointing path. We take full responsibility for promoting him in the past and are committed to finding a better way forward. We wish him a smooth transition into political retirement.”
As of now, Gana has not issued any statement addressing the growing backlash over his remarks in Mokwa.
