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Nigeria under Bondage of Corrupt Leaders

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Yusuf

 

By Yusuf Shuaibu Yusuf

The essay though not historical one, to fully understand the quagmire and chaos Nigeria stumbled into, one has to contemplate and flashback the emergence of the country as a sovereign nation and the immediate events that led to its development. Only then would one asses its present malady and profer a possible remedy to it.

A former British colony, situated in West Africa and occupying a total area of 9237770km² and total coastline of 853km, Nigeria, a multi culturally diverse nation, is the most populous African country with enormously vast natural resources. The country which attained its independence in 1960, has alternately been ruled by both military and civilian governments until 1999 when Abdussalamu Abubakar, a military head of state himself, finally handed over power to the elected civilian government, starting from Olosegun Obasanjo,down to Yar’Adua, through to Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and finally to the incumbent president Muhammadu Buhari. And this has been the longest time, so far, the country has ever witnessed the uninterrupted civilian rules since its inception.

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There is a need to elaborate on the word ‘corruption’ as it would recurrently feature in the subsequent paragraphs. Corruption is an umbrella term for any action that deviates from what is right. This includes election misconduct, misappropriation of public funds, exam malpractice, nepotism, favouritism, bribery, tribalism, regionalism, religious bigotry and whatnot. In 2012, Nigeria was reported to have estimatedly lost over $400 billion to corruption since its independence.

“The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership. There is nothing basically wrong with the Nigerian land or climate or water or air or anything else. The Nigerian problem is the unwillingness or inability of its leaders to rise to the responsibility, to the challenge of personal example which are the hallmarks of true leadership.” Chinua Achebe.

The total decay and degeneration, we, therefore, see today and for which change we crave and dream of, hasn’t been something natural or fortuitous, but rather the outcome of train of corrupt leaders who have generation after generation, misgoverned the country, mismanaged and looted its vastly enormous wealth, divided and disunited its citizens,for their political benefits, along ethnic, religious and regional divides, thereby sowing the seed of hatred and distrust among its citizens who have, already, been culturally diverse in nature. Thus, the vast natural resources meant to develop our social and physical infrastructures and also to create business friendly environment in order to attract foreign investors, become a loot to be plundered by the cycle of our political class and their cronies. The politics, therefore, becomes attractively lucrative where only the rich can invest directly or indirectly through sponsoring their own candidature or that of their ‘boys’ to contest for political offices with the sole aim of yielding profit through bogus contracts. Law and order, which is supposed to be binding on all the citizens, becomes a thing for the poor while the rich and political elites can, at will, trample on the laws with impunity. By virtue of nepotism, regional or political sentiments, the dull-brained are privileged over the intelligent and the mediocre over the competent when it comes to employment, promotion or appointment.

As Chinue Achebe has aptly said” Nigeria is what it is because its leaders are not what they should be.” This claim has made it obvious that if leaders are good and competent, all other thing would fall in place and if leaders are bad and corrupt all other institutions would decay, crumble and become disorderly. It would manifest to anyone, upon little reflection, that a bad leadership affects all the existing institutions in a country, the way cancerous cells affect the entire system of the body as exemplified in Nigeria. It’s now evident that the perennial bad and corrupt leadership has virtually infiltrated and permeated all our social institutions. This cancer has eaten deep into the fabric of our existence, turning our country on its head.The ultimate outcome and the effect of this age long corruption is that Nigeria has fallen short of the prerequisite to reach world standard in almost all aspects of human endeavour, simply, because the vast resources designed to develop any such aspect are diverted and stolen by the same people who have assigned such projects in the first place.

Consequently, our educational and health sectors are in shambles. And unfortunately, the same politicians who have jeopardized and stagnated these sectors will, when the need arises, fly to developed countries for medical reasons or education of their children.
Failure of the governnment to provide job oppurtunities or create an enabling environment for the foreign investors to boost our industries has rendered our teeming youths jobless and possible recruits for the underworlds. The best brains who could be employed in Nigeria to develop the country but denied, perhaps because of their poor connection with the political class, daily, go to abroad seeking for a higher paid jobs while some of them who decide to remain in the country engage in any sort of crime to grasp quick money. No wonder Nigeria is notoriously popular in scamming and other sorts of cyber crimes. Our economic reality is so hostile that even the semi literate and the illiterate ones have, on daily basis, now jumped on the bandwagon and leave the country, for Arab world to perform domestic services and other odd jobs or seek asylum in Europe, masquerading themselves as refuges. In fact, there has never been an exodus of Nigerians into the foreign soils as we are witnessing today.

Insecurity is another grave issue Nigeria has to deal with. Our security framework has been politicized and corrupt as recruitments or promotions are allegedly not often done on merit. Another yet sad development is the way this deliberately lingering insecurity becomes a source of stealing in Nigeria. Just like the endless lies surrounding the provision of steady power supply, the issue of insecurity has created an avenue where our politicians and allegedly high ranking military officers unaccountably steal money putting the lives of the millions Nigerians at risk. This, has in consequence, made our military framework porous, exposed and very vulnerable. There have been many outcries and demands by junior military ranks, in their endless war against Bokoharam, for the short of manpower, lack of sophisticated weapons. Despite huge investment by the government in this sector, our senior military officers still complain about underfunding as being the reason of the dragging of the war . The lack of readiness, caused by corruption, by the government to tackle the issue of insecurity, squarely, is what has led to the emergence of the deadlier variant of Bokoharam in Northeastern part of Nigeria, which has now expanded its onslaught towards North central part of the country. The issue of IPOB, which on daily basis, wreck havoc on innocent Nigerians and Niger Delta militants still remain a matter of serious concern. The recent insecurity challenges which have also gone out of hand are the issues of banditry and kidnapping. The notoriety of bandits and kidnappers have caused the loss of lives and property and rendered ten of thousands innocent Nigerians homeless. The sad accounts of rapes, tortures and huge money given as ransoms to these gangsters are no longer top stories in our daily papers. In the same vein,The police who is supposed to inspire confidence and treat people with cordiality and sociability often do exactly the opposite.The tags: ‘Police is your friend’ or ‘Bail is free’, by the police organization, is as annoying as it is ridiculous. Those who have once been charged by the police or been to police station to bail out a friend or a relative would understand what I mean. The masses, therefore, lose their confidence in the police organization and no longer see the police as their friends but mere extortionists.

Knowing that our judicial system is compromising, knowing that they would bribe their way when arrested, many Nigerians have become grossly indiscipline. The attitudes of jumping the queues and smoking in public places have become a norm in Nigeria. Violating traffic laws on our main roads is no longer seen as a crime by some Nigerians. There have been different campaigns, by different governments, over the years to end these unwholesome trends. But these attempts have always proved abortive, perhaps, the people enacting the laws and the law enforcers are wanting in discipline too. Dallying and disrespecting time has become deeply ingrained in our attitude. In fact, I have never seen or heard about any African country where ‘African Time’ has been normalized like Nigeria. Coming to public offices late and closing early have become widespread almost all over the country.

I have a dream that one day our vast resources would be channelled towards boosting our economy and developing our social and physical infrastructures such that Nigeria could be competing with the rest of the world in science and technology, such that people from different part of the world would be coming to Nigeria to study or to seek medical attention.
I have a dream that one day Nigerians would rally around and vote for the people with competency and capacity irrespective of religion, region or tribe, a dream that all Nigerians would come under the same umbrella of patriotism and sing the song of unity and brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day any Nigerian would be judged according to his personal character not his identity, that any Nigerian would decide to live in any part of the country and exercise their full rights, feeling safe and at home.

I have a dream that one day Nigerians would stop seeing politics as money making industry but as an avenue to serve people in order to leave behind a good legacy, a dream that Godfearing and incorrupt people would be the ones to lead the country, the outcome of which is an ideal society where the yearnings and aspirations of the poor are represented and realized. Such was the ideal society longed and struggled for by Malam Aminu Kano and his fellow patriotic comrades until their last breaths. Malam Aminu Kano once said: “Anyone who wants to lead should be the servant not the boss of those he wants to serve”.

I have a dream that one day every Nigerian, poor or rich, would be treated equally before the law, a dream that every Nigerian would have equal access and opportunity to education, employment and promotion, the ultimate goal of which is a perfect environment where competence and hard work pay, where merit is privileged over any other sentiment.

I have a dream that Nigerian military, police and other security operatives would one day be well manned and equipped so that they could rise to the bedevilling security challenges facing the country, that the police tags of ‘POLICE IS YOUR FRIEND’ OR ‘BAIL IS FREE’ would have their true meanings.

I have a dream that one day Nigerians, both the leading and the led would have respect for the law, out of patriotism and love for the country, a dream that Nigeria would have discipline leaders who would be leading by example, a dream that Nigeria would one day become a discipline and decent country.
I have a dream that one day Nigeria would prosper in peace and tranquility, a dream that terrorism, banditry and militancy would vanish, a dream that a person could travel to any part of the country, feeling secured.

Finally, I have a dream that Nigeria would regain her lost glory and pride and take her right place in the world stage.

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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.

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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.

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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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