By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

KADUNA — The Youth Wing of the Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU) has distanced itself from a group calling for the recall of Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, affirming unwavering support for his leadership and legislative strides.

In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Solomon Simon (National Coordinator), Comrade Aruwa Alhassan (Secretary General), and Comrade Isah Emmanuel Anjadick (National PRO), the SOKAPU Youth Wing strongly condemned what they described as a divisive and ill-timed campaign orchestrated by a self-acclaimed group under the banner of the Southern Kaduna Progressives Youth Network.

The group had on June 16, 2025, held a press conference announcing plans to initiate a recall process against Senator Katung, who represents the Southern Kaduna Senatorial District, and petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate him.

Responding, SOKAPU Youth Wing stated: “As the mother umbrella body of Southern Kaduna youths, we condemn in the strongest terms the antics and divisive posture of this group. Their actions do not represent the collective aspirations, values, or direction of Southern Kaduna youth.”

The group expressed confidence in Senator Katung’s performance, describing his two years in office as purposeful and impactful. They warned against the “Pull Him Down” (PHD) syndrome, saying it is dangerous and counterproductive.

“Senator Katung deserves constructive engagement and respect, not public ridicule driven by personal or political motives,” the statement noted.

Highlighting the senator’s achievements, the group cited several bills and motions, including the push for compensation for diphtheria victims in 2023, a ₦1.6 billion bailout for ginger farmers in 2024, and legislative efforts toward establishing the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, a Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan, and a Technology Incubation Centre.

They also praised community-based projects facilitated by the senator, including the provision of over 30 boreholes, scholarships for indigent students, rural hospital renovations, and science laboratory construction, among others.

“These interventions speak volumes about his commitment to the socio-economic advancement of our region,” the statement added.

The SOKAPU Youth Wing cautioned against the politicization of youth platforms and warned that Southern Kaduna’s unity and dignity must not be compromised for political gain.

“We call on youths to resist being used as tools of division. Instead, let us channel our energy toward unity, innovation, and meaningful development. Let’s build, not break. Let’s unite, not divide,” they urged.

The youth body reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all elected leaders from Southern Kaduna, irrespective of political affiliation, as long as they prioritize peace, development, and youth inclusion.