A seemingly innocuous Facebook post by Muhammad Alfa, a final-year law student at Maryam Abacha University, Kano, has sparked controversy in Niger State.
Alfa’s inquiry about the state government’s “New Niger Bread” initiative led to heated responses from officials, including an audio threat from Shehu Bawa Bwari, the Coordinator on Entrepreneurship to Governor Umaru Bago.
The bread initiative, launched in July, aimed to empower 200 trainers and eventually create 10,000 bakers over four years. Governor Bago supported the programme with a ₦20 million donation.
While many praised the vision, Alfa’s questions sought updates on the initiative's progress, sparking a defensive backlash.
According to Daily Nigerian, Alfa’s Facebook post asked: “What’s the update on the production of New Niger Bread? Were they able to train the thousands of students as promised? Is the bread available in your area?”
His inquiry received a measured response from Umar Mohammed, the Coordinator on Empowerment, who emphasised progress.
“So far, we were able to train and empower 200 Nigerlites. Is this not an achievement?” Mohammed responded.
However, Bwari’s reaction escalated tensions. Accusing Alfa of undermining his efforts, Bwari threatened legal action and sent an audio message filled with expletives in Hausa.
“I will stop at nothing to bring you down. Your question on New Niger Bread: they are doing well, and I’ll not show you on social media but in a court of law,” Bwari declared.
When contacted, Bwari confirmed sending the audio but denied it was meant as a threat.
“As a human being, when someone undermines your efforts, it’s natural to get angry,” he said.
The incident has raised concerns about freedom of expression and the conduct of public officials. Critics argue that constructive criticism should be welcomed in a democratic society.
Meanwhile, Bwari maintained that his actions were a cautionary measure against social media misuse.
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