‘I’m a better person after seven years in prison’ – Faruk Lawan
A former House of Representatives Appropriation Committee Chairman, Faruk Lawan, has described his seven-year jail term as a test of his life.
Speaking on Saturday during his visit to Shanono/Bagwai Federal Constituency, in a crowded convoy of political supporters, Faruk Lawan said, “Today, I am a better person, and I thank God for everything.
“My visit is not political but rather to pay condolences, sympathize with the sick, and pay homage to our fathers and traditional leaders.”
Faruk, dressed in a Kwankwasiyya white-red cap attire, stated before departing from his house on Jigawa Road for the journey to his constituency, “I’m freelancing in politics for now; I don’t belong to anybody.”
He was received by the District Head of Bagwai in Bagwai Local Government, Alhaji Nura Shehu Ahmad, the Magajin Rafi of Kano, who described Faruk Lawan’s incarceration as “a blessing in disguise” for him and his supporters.
He said, “Today, many of us here who were once your enemies have turned into not only your supporters but your loyal supporters, with a deep understanding of who Faruk Lawan truly is and his passion for his people.”
The District Head noted, “Even when Faruk Lawan was in prison, he still connected with us in all facets of life. He supported the needy among us, inquired about everyone, and sent messages to many of us. We really thank you and cherish you.”
In Shanono Local Government, Faruk Lawan was also received by the District Head, Ibrahim Sani Gaya Uban Doman Kano, who highlighted his virtues and encouraged him to see his experience as a test of his faith.
The District Head said, “Politics aside, Faruk Lawan is a very good person who respects everyone regardless of their position in life. No wonder you have such a huge crowd escorting you to your hometown. I hope you will maintain these good virtues.”
An NNPP chieftain, Saidu Sarkin Ya, who was part of the entourage, remarked, “Anytime, anywhere, Faruk Lawan can win elections despite his absence. We appeal to the Federal Government to grant him clemency and remove the ex-convict tag so he can continue to make an impact.”
Faruk Lawan was accompanied by the chairmen of Shanono and Bagwai councils, Alhaji Habu Barau and Alhaji Bello Abdullahi Kiyawa, along with Kano political appointees from the area, NNPP party leaders, APC and PDP supporters, and hundreds of loyalists.
DAILY POST recalls that Faruk Lawan, former chairman of the House of Representatives probe panel on the oil subsidy regime, was sentenced to seven years in prison for receiving a $3 million bribe from oil magnate Femi Otedola.
Justice Angela Otaluka of the FCT High Court in Apo found the former lawmaker guilty on all three counts brought against him by the ICPC and ordered him to refund $500,000 to the federal government.