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Ganduje:Gradually Going GAGA

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Ganduje

 

By Bala Ibrahim.

It was Edward Dalberg Acton, the historian, moralist and English nobleman that said, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men.”

At no time in the history of Kano politics is this proverbial saying becoming proven, and evidently experienced in the behaviour of leaders, than in the time of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The ease with which Governor Ganduje goofs, is fast transforming him from a known nincompoop to a great goon, it seems.

Either by deliberate deception or dodgy design, all of which are potentially dangerous, Governor Ganduje is personally digging his own political grave, at a speed that could cause him a foolish failure. Undoubtedly, the Governor is doing what he is doing because of the illusive influence of the instruments of power.

Depending on his condition of compassion, the instruments of power are used in coercive or condign conditions by Ganduje, without any fear of the fact that they could make him go gaga.

Yesterday, Monday, 19/04/21, after reading stories in the media, that the publisher of Daily Nigerian, Mr. Jaafar Jaafar, has fled his house and gone into hiding, I put a call to him for enquiries. Indeed he confirmed to me that he had relocated for safety, after receiving several security threats, in recent times.

Jaafar said to me, unknown persons have been on his trail for a while now, and he feels unsafe with such unidentified persons, that are likely to be hit men, stalking him all over.

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It may be recalled that sometimes in the year 2018, in the build up to the 2019 gubernatorial elections, the journalist had published video clips of Governor Ganduje, allegedly showing him collecting bribery in dollars from a presumed contractor.

Because of the furore generated, which is still keeping the Governor in fury, in a recent interview with the BBC Hausa, Ganduje said he is making plans to deal with those who released the videos.

With that threat, Jaafar rushed with a petition to the former Inspector General of police, Adamu Mohammed, seeking protection against the visit of harm.

His fears were directed at Ganduje.

Also few weeks ago, under similar circumstances, the media was awash with stories that the same Governor Ganduje of Kano State, was intimidating the family of a human rights activist and lawyer, Sa’ida Sa’ad-Bugaje, with policemen trailing her family members to neighbouring Katsina and Kaduna states, for the simple reason of criticizing him over the alleged mismanagement of COVID-19 funds, in her home state of Kano.

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Like Jaafar, Sa’ad, also claimed to be subjected to harassment by persons believed to be the governor’s henchmen. According to her, she was almost whisked away by personnel claiming to be working for the Governor.

She had since gone into hiding. And her fears are directed at Ganduje.

Again, barely a year after removing Emir Sunusi and installing Aminu Ado Bayero on the throne, the government of Kano, under the same Ganduje, is at war with the new Amir of Kano.

The state is accusing the Emir of financial scandal, involving the sale of 22 hectares of land to the tune of over 1billion naira. The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, PCACC, is investigating the monarch, alongside some of his senior aides, for allegedly diverting parts of the money to personal use.

The target is the new Emir,
who like Sunusi, Ganduje may want to be removed and banished from kano for life.

The dictionary describes coercive power as the use of force, or fear to get an employee to follow an instruction or order, where power comes from one’s ability to punish the employee for noncompliance. This power is in use, for example, when an employee carries out an order under fear of losing his or her job.

Is Ganduje gradually going gaga, by trying to silence people, through the use of his political employees, to unleash terror on pundits and political opponents?

Something must be done, and be done quickly before the situation gets out of hand. In order to prevent power from corrupting people’s character, it is important for those in power to be made to practice self-reflection.

Kano has had Governors like Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, the Sardaunan Kano, who despite all provocations and campaigns of calumny, refused to be guided by arrogance, self-worth or the feel of self-importance. Rather, he governed with modesty and humility.

Ganduje might have won in the dethronement of Emir Sunusi and the subsequent degradation of the dominion. He also has the right to seek redress in court where he feels defamed. But even if he goes gaga, he cannot gag the press, or succeed in a war with the media, especially the media that is not afraid of intimidation.

The Governor needs to take some lessons on the limits of patience, particularly political patience, as it affects people’s capacity to accept or tolerate threats and humiliation without expressing anger.

Many supported Ganduje as the successor for Kwankwaso, because of his perceived simplicity and modesty, which combined to give him an edge over his major challenger, Abba Gida Gida, as he was famously called. But after getting himself in the new leadership position, he refused to check himself from the negative changes in behaviour.

Those who read history, may educate the Governor about the famous July 10th Kano rampage, and how a radio station, the old assembly building and other institutions were set on fire, killing at least two people, one of whom was Dr. Bala Mohammed, the political Adviser to Governor Rimi. The damage at that time, was put at a conservative estimate of $300 million.

I have since commenced investigations, with regards the veracity of Jafaar’s claim that the Police is on his trail, because I know Elleman to be an upright police officer, that would not act ultra vires. And to give him support in doing what is professionally appropriate, unless he was mislead, the Ag.IGP Alkali Usman Baba, has made it categorically clear, that he would not allow himself to be drawn into any political or whatever vendetta, in order to settle scores.

Opinion

Kano APC Crisis: An Open Letter to President Tinubu

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I hope this letter finds you well Your Excellency. As Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads, I write to you today as a concerned and dedicated member of the All Progressives Congress in Kano, compelled by the urgency of our nation’s challenges and aware of your unwavering determination to steer it unto the path of greatness.

But a united front is indispensable in achieving your grand plan for the nations success. Internal party crisis in my dear state, threatens the very foundation upon which your vision lies – unity – and this I write to you today, eager spark meaningful dialogue and constructive action on your part.

Mr. President, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and leader of our party, your urgent intervention is crucial to address the pressing issues at hand. If left unattended, it may escalate into a crisis that could have far-reaching and devastating consequences for the party, making it challenging to manage. Your timely action would help mitigate this risk and ensure the party’s stability.

In Kano, it is generally acknowledged that Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former governor and current National Chairman, leads our party. Members have consistently shown loyalty to his leadership since day one.

You will also recall that Dr. Ganduje actively supported your presidential bid, demonstrating a pure, genuine and unmixed commitment to your cause during both the presidential primaries and general elections. However, some individuals now seek to drive a wedge between you and the Chairman, feeling threatened by his influential position as the National Chairman of our great party.

Mr President sir, It is imperative to hold the Deputy President of the Senate Barau Jibrin accountable for plunging the All Progressives Congress into an avoidable crisis since taking office. As a seasoned politician and senator representing Kano North since 2015, his actions have significant implications. Barau Jibrin’s leadership has sparked division within the party, necessitating urgent attention to prevent further escalation.

Due to the recent removal of Abdullahi Muhammad Gwarzo as Minister, the All Progressives Congress is facing an unprecedented crisis in Kano North, a stronghold of the party since 2015. This division, fueled by Deputy President of the Senate Barau Jibrin’s actions, threatens the party’s stability. As a leader, Mr. President, it’s crucial to address this issue sustainably.

Barau Jibrin’s political strategy and human relations have been questionable, yet his influence led to the sacking of a loyal minister, Gwarzo. This decision was disheartening, considering Gwarzo’s impressive track record as a generous, humble, and grassroots politician. The people of Kano are upset, and rightfully so.

It’s essential to recognize Barau Jibrin’s intentions. He’s only loyal to you, Mr. President, because of your current position. History shows he’ll turn against you once you’re no longer in office. His self-serving nature is evident in his interactions with grassroots politicians.

To pacify the people and resolve the ongoing crisis, reappointing Gwarzo is imperative. This move will demonstrate your commitment to loyalty and fairness. The APC’s future in Kano North depends on it.

Mr. President, to ensure the party is back on track, it is crucial to prioritize collaboration with loyalists and consider the input of key stakeholders in Kano. This means moving away from decision-making that caters to a single individual who claims control over Kano North. Instead, foster an inclusive approach that values diverse perspectives and promotes unity within the party.

By doing so, you’ll not only strengthen the party’s foundation but also demonstrate your commitment to fairness and representation. This approach will help prevent unnecessary conflicts and ensure that the party’s interests are truly served. It’s essential to recognize that the party’s success relies on collective efforts, not individual interests.

For your information Mr President, Barau’s electoral successes can be attributed to the popularity of the House of Representatives candidates from his Senatorial District. These individuals are widely admired and respected by their constituents. However, rather than leveraging his own strengths, Barau has consistently relied on the goodwill and reputation of these candidates to secure his own victories, essentially seeking shelter under their umbrella.

It’s not yet too late for the President to do the needful for the interest of Kano State and the party at large. With the weight of history and the hopes of a generation on your shoulders, I urge you to confront the harsh realities that threaten our collective progress.

Nabahani Yusuf Gogori writes from Gogori town in Bagwai

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Opinion

Unmasking Excellence : Idris Abdulkadir Zare’s (Jagora) Leadership Style

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By Abba Anwar

Without any doubt, Idris Abdulkadir Zare’s name rings bell in Kano politics, particularly, in his political zone, Kano South. It rings bell not because he is terrifying, but simply because, his name, alone, signifies examplary leadership, selfless service to humanity, genuine loyalty and un-arguable commitment for the survival of the party, All Progressives Congress (APC), in this context.

While he is not a seeker of any elective public office, or party position, as I study him and his political antecedents, he believes, supporting party leadership and followership is one of the surest ways of strengthening the party, against all odds. I kindly call my readers to go to Rogo and substantiate my submission.

Here is a lone Jagora (leader) who spends from his hard earned resources to support the party without thinking of getting anything from anybody, no matter how highly placed, that person could be. His magnanimous touches go beyond party lines. Go to Rogo and seek for more clarification.

If Kano APC is really serious about mending fences, gaining more grassroot support, bouncing back in pre, during and post 2027, people like Idi Zare must be on board. I never met this gentleman. In fact I don’t even know his face, anyway. I come from Dala local government, Kano Central. But I came to know about him for quite sometime now.

He, unlike many of our politicians, made his fortunes outside government. But he spends stupendously in people’s welfare, needs and loyalty. One good thing about him, is, while engaging in such activities, he is not vying for any position. Meaning, this gentleman is acting the script of his good heart. He is indeed a morale booster from whatever standpoint you look at him.

This is somebody whose loyalty is not dangling. He supports what he believes in, with all his heart. By whatever standard, Zare is a Phoenix. And trains people to become that.

I caption this piece, as Unmasking Excellence… because, here is a strong party man, whose support and faith in the party and beyond, are more or less, left near lowest ebb. If we can have enough Zare’s replica from all our political zones, in Kano, regret and backwardness could be things of the past. No doubt about this!

I can also understand that, even among our APC strong men in the state, only those of them who are more loyal and sensitive to the welfare of the party members, are the ones that understand his (Zare) worth and work with him hand in hand, for the survival of the party, in the state and the nation in general.

Zare’s clear understanding of political cohesion as a recipe for good governance gives him more courage to see to the welfare and unassuming political engagement with the view to bring all politicians to state growth and development.

The issue goes beyond dishing out resources to people for massaging the economic hardship, he helps in perfecting people’s transportation network, via the provision of vehicles for their personal use. He recently distributed cars and motorbikes for his people. Not because he got a single Kobo from any government institution. He uses his hard earned money to do what he sincerely believes in.

He is also being disturbed by the economic hardship plaguing the society. Which makes hunger more visible than before. That makes him to be up and doing in cushioning the effect of this ugly experience. He distributes foodstuff on frequent basis. To help body and soul live together.

Zare Jagora is not any super human being, only that he believes in making people happy. While being interested in developing his people, without recourse to any ambition or expectations, he believes when man is developed, all other systems can work in harmony to each other.

If and only if, APC as a strong party in Kano, and the nation in general, is really interested in victory, strength and service to humanity, Zare’s legacy and immense contributions to humanity should not be downgraded to the bottom of the ladder.

Anwar was former Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and can be reached at fatimanbaba1@gmail.com

November 4th, 2024

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Opinion

Northern Nigeria’s Silence Amidst Rising Injustices: A Call for a Return to Principled Leadership

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The worsening security situation in Northern Nigeria is no longer merely a concern—it has become a full-blown crisis threatening the lives and liberties of millions. Kidnapping, once considered the work of hardened criminals, is now perceived as a lucrative trade. Even more disturbing is the encroachment of this practice into governance, with reports of state authorities detaining citizens under questionable circumstances, particularly young protesters. These developments raise difficult questions about the strength and integrity of leadership in Northern Nigeria and leave us wondering whether the region still has leaders who genuinely represent its people.

The recent detention of minors, allegedly in unhealthy conditions, illustrates this chilling trend. These young individuals were reportedly taken by the authorities while engaging in a protest to call for better governance. Their alleged crime? Waving a foreign flag, in this case, the Russian flag, which authorities deemed treasonous. They did so, perhaps naively, without recognizing the potential implications, yet the state treated them with severity, reportedly requiring a staggering N10 million per person as bail. In contrast, individuals in Southern Nigeria have raised foreign flags and voiced secessionist sentiments without facing equivalent punishments.

This discrepancy raises difficult questions about the consistency of the law and whether it is applied equally across the country. Why are Northern youth held to such strict standards while similar actions in other regions seem to be treated with leniency? Historically, the North was known for its stalwart leaders—individuals who stood up for the people, challenged the government when necessary, and never allowed the region to be compromised. Leaders like Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa, and Malam Aminu Kano left a legacy of dignity, integrity, and advocacy for Northern interests. These figures prioritized the wellbeing of their people, standing up against exploitation and injusticeTheir voices resonated across Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape. Today, however, the lack of a unified voice from Northern leaders is disheartening. In the past, these leaders would not have hesitated to demand justice for the detained minors or to negotiate on behalf of their people. Now, the silence of Northern elites on issues like insecurity, youth incarceration, and poor governance has left a void. Instead of elders standing firmly to shield and protect the region’s youth, we are witnessing a tragic indifference that has left many young people feeling abandoned. This crisis of leadership in Northern Nigeria has had severe consequences. Kidnapping and banditry are ravaging communities, youth are disillusioned, and the voices of the people are ignored or, worse, suppressed.

The North is bleeding, and without intervention, the situation will continue to deteriorate. To the elders of the North, if indeed they still exist in spirit and purpose, it is time to rise. The North needs a collective, principled voice to stand against injustice and ensure that the region’s youth are protected and that their futures are not sacrificed to lawlessness or state oppression. The need for Northern Nigeria to reclaim its dignified, protective, and principled leadership has never been more urgent. It is time to break the silence.

Abubakar Ibrahim can be reach via:

habuibrahim76@gmail.com
+2348098454956

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