By Lami Ibrahim
Supporters of NationalWatch Newspaper publisher, Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab, have faulted the recent claim by Bala Salisu describing the journalist as a non-indigene of Lokoja, calling the remark false, divisive, and politically motivated.
In a statement made available to journalists in Lokoja on Sunday, the supporters said Bala Salisu’s outburst was a calculated attempt to divert attention from more pressing local issues — particularly the controversy surrounding the omission of his name from the list of award recipients during the Lokoja Local Government one-year anniversary celebration.
They described Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab as a proud son of Lokoja whose family’s roots run deep in the city.
“How can Bala Salisu call Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab a non-indigene of Lokoja?” a spokesperson asked.
“His late father was born in Lokoja, lived his entire life here, and raised all his children in the same community. That clearly establishes his heritage beyond any doubt.”
According to them, the attempt to question Fab’s origin is not only misleading but also an insult to the memory of his late father, who was widely known and respected in the area for his integrity and contributions to community development.
They further said that having a traditional title does not make anyone more of an indigene than another person, stressing that such honours are granted in recognition of service, not ancestry.
“What defines a true son of the soil is not the number of titles he holds but the depth of his commitment to his people,” they added.
The group alleged that Bala Salisu’s recent comments were born out of political frustration following his omission from the Lokoja LGA awards, rather than any genuine concern about community identity.
They also hinted that the public would soon be informed of the number of true Lokoja indigenes Bala Salisu had worked against in the past.
They noted that it was unnecessary and hypocritical to question anyone’s roots in today’s Nigeria.
“After all, many non-indigenes have risen to become governors in Lagos and other states across the country,” the statement read.
“What matters is loyalty, contribution, and service to humanity.”
The supporters emphasized that Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab has, through NationalWatch, continued to promote truth, accountability, and the image of Lokoja in a positive light.
“Fab has used his platform to speak for the voiceless and defend the interests of the people,” one of them said.
“He is a bridge-builder, not a divider.”
They urged Bala Salisu and other political actors to stop making divisive remarks capable of sowing discord among residents, advising them instead to focus on unity, peace, and meaningful development.
In his brief reaction, Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab dismissed the attacks as distractions.
“My focus remains on service to the people of Lokoja,” he said.
“Those who know my family history know exactly where I come from. I will continue to work for the progress of our community, regardless of any noise from detractors.”
Community observers also weighed in, warning against the growing trend of ethnic and origin-based attacks in local politics.
They described such tactics as outdated and counter-productive to the collective goal of peace and development in Lokoja Local Government.
