Residents of Tsaragi community in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State have accused Alhaji Buhari Mohammed Makama, father of Sadiq Buhari, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Social Investment, of diverting a public electricity transformer meant for the community to his private residence.

Community leaders and concerned residents described the act as a blatant abuse of power and privilege, insisting that the 22.5kVA transformer, provided under an ongoing state project, was procured to serve the entire Tsaragi community, not an individual’s compound.

A local leader who spoke to SaharaReporters on condition of anonymity said:

“This transformer was meant for the entire Tsaragi community. It is a public asset, not a private inheritance. Just because his son holds a political office does not give him the right to hijack what belongs to everyone.”

The source also disputed claims by an IBEDC (NEPA) official, Isa Afro, who reportedly said the Emir of Tsaragi approved the relocation. Community leaders labelled this claim a lie, insisting that no such approval was given.

Growing Outrage and Public Reaction

The situation has sparked widespread discontent. Prince Mohammed Karatun Tsaragi openly condemned the development, insisting that:

“All the transformers that have served this community for decades have been placed in public spaces. Why now is one being hidden in a private compound under the guise of ‘preventing vandalism’?”

He warned that “Makama will not remain in power forever”, hinting at a potential escalation if authorities fail to intervene.

On July 15, 2025, Prince Mohammed also wrote an open letter to the Executive Chairman of Edu LGA, Abdullahi Bello Ndamongoro, seeking official clarification and urging that the transformer be restored to its intended public location.

Community’s Demands and Warning

In their petition, residents demanded:

  • Clarification on the status of the transformer allocation

  • A transparent and open audit of public resources

  • Immediate return of the transformer to the community

The letter concluded with a stern warning that failure to act would compel the community to escalate the matter to the Kwara State Government and publicly expose the alleged misappropriation.

“Are public resources and funds meant only for a small circle of cronies in Tsaragi?” the letter queried.

Broader Implications

This incident further underscores the growing frustration over the misuse of public resources in Nigeria, particularly at the local government level, where political influence and privilege often override community interests.