Anger In Kwara Community As Governor's Aide's Father Diverts Public Transformer To Private Compound.

Tension is mounting in the Tsaragi community, located in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, following allegations that a public electricity transformer has been unlawfully diverted for private use by Alhaji Buhari Mohammed Makama, father of Sadiq Buhari, the Special Adviser to the Kwara State Governor on Social Investment.

A community leader who spoke to SaharaReporters on condition of anonymity revealed that the transformer—originally procured to improve electricity supply for the entire community—has been relocated to Makama's private compound, contrary to the location previously agreed upon by residents.

"This transformer was meant for the entire Tsaragi community. It is a public asset, not a private inheritance," the source stated.

"Just because his son holds a political office does not give him the right to hijack what belongs to everyone. It is unacceptable."

According to the source, construction has already begun on a transformer housing unit inside Makama's residence, sparking outrage among community members.

An official of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), Isa Afro, allegedly claimed that the Emir of Tsaragi approved the siting of the transformer in Makama's compound. However, locals say this claim is entirely false.

"That is a blatant lie," the source said. "The Emir never issued such a directive. It's a complete fabrication meant to cover up a misuse of public infrastructure."

Community Demands Investigation, Return of Transformer

In response, residents have called on the Kwara State Government and other relevant authorities to investigate the matter and ensure that the transformer is installed at the originally agreed-upon public location.

One prominent voice, Prince Mohammed Karatun Tsaragi, strongly condemned the relocation and called for the immediate return of the 22.5kVA transformer to the community.

"How many transformers in Tsaragi are inside private compounds?" he asked. "Every single one has always been placed in open, public areas. Now, all of a sudden, a new transformer is being installed inside someone's house—under the excuse of preventing vandalism?

"We are watching closely. This shady arrangement won't last. Many people are afraid to speak because of Makama's influence, but power is not permanent. This will not be swept under the carpet."

Open Letter to Local Government Chairman

On July 15, 2025, Prince Mohammed, on behalf of the community, addressed an open letter to the Executive Chairman of Edu LGA, Abdullahi Bello Ndamongoro, seeking clarity over the status of the transformer. The letter expressed deep concern over growing reports that the transformer—believed to be part of Phase II of an ongoing electrification project under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq—was being diverted for private gain.

He questioned whether the transformer had been formally allocated to serve the public or informally handed over as a personal gift. He stressed that if the latter were true, it would raise serious concerns about the transparency, fairness, and integrity of local governance.

"Our revered traditional ruler, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Goshi, has never kept a public transformer in his private residence," the letter stated.

"Why should this case be any different?"

While stopping short of placing full blame on Makama himself, Prince Mohammed said the community's primary concern lies with the conduct of local authorities, whom he accused of selective governance and favoritism.

Warning of Escalation

In his letter, Prince Mohammed warned that should the transformer not be returned to public use, the community would be forced to escalate the issue by going public and submitting a formal petition to the Kwara State Government.

"We are writing on behalf of the people of Tsaragi and surrounding communities to request immediate clarification regarding the 22.5kVA transformer recently allocated to us.

There is growing confusion and concern, as numerous distress calls and messages have suggested that this transformer—intended as part of a state-backed development project—is now being diverted for personal benefit.

We demand to know: was this transformer officially allocated for the benefit of the entire Tsaragi community, or has it been gifted to a private individual?

If the latter is true, it raises serious questions. Are public resources meant only for a privileged few?"

The letter concluded with a strong call for equity, transparency, and accountability, urging the authorities to uphold the public interest over private privilege.