By Misbahu El-Hamza
I will try to make my thoughts on this briefly less complicated for myself and whoever choose to read it. Let me begin by saying that I’m fascinated by the 2023 political activities of Mallam Ibrahim Khalil, a gubernatorial candidate of the ADC in Kano, and Peter Obi, a presidential candidate of the LP. In my lifetime, these two have represented a political awakening in Nigeria’s democracy.
In the North, it’s commonly believed that Islamic scholars shouldn’t be involved in politics, but Mallam Khalil is defying this norm. While he may not win the election, his participation challenges the belief that politics isn’t for the scholars (or saints, if you will), and he is sending a strong message to those forces that belittle the idea of Islamic scholars in politics. The awakening is, therefore, primarily about these forces. It’s time for them to reconsider their stance on Islamic scholars in politics, as this may just be the beginning of a new trend.
There are many theories and accusations that suggest that Northern and Western Nigeria have a plan for how Nigerian politics should be run. This plan supposedly ensures that the East, and particularly the Igbos, will never “be given a chance” to rule the country. Surprisingly, this theory is believed by many people in all regions, including the Igbos. While others act as if they are the custodians of the power, those who subscribe to this belief amongst the Igbos feel marginalized. It has created a sense of exclusion for them, and a feeling as though they will never have a candidate of their own closer to the presidency.
African Democratic Congress (ADC) Sets Date For Reception Of Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil
However, Peter Gregory Obi, Ndi Onicha, has defied the odds and emerged as a political force to be reckoned with within Igboland. This marks a significant moment for the Igbos, who were made to believe that they would never have one of their own as president.
Arguably, Nigeria has never seen a political force from the East as it’s now witnessing in Peter Obi’s #Obidients movement. For me, whatever the outcome of the February 25th presidential election, Peter Obi has succeeded in defying the odds and has proven that the Igbos can aspire to any political position by truly getting involved. This is a moment of political awakening, and it offers an alternative to secession for IPOB sympathizers who may not have been convinced that Nigeria is for all and not just a select few.
To wrap up, talking about political awakening and involvement, I want to point to those advocating for “giving women a chance” in politics. Rather than asking for “handouts,” you may learn a lesson from the “Not Too Young to Run” movement and encourage women to get involved in politics on their own. Ultimately, it is up to the voters to give someone a chance, and that chance is earned by appearing on the ballot. As more ‘marginalized’ groups become involved in politics, Nigeria’s democracy is maturing. Let us hope for a peaceful election on February 25 and March 11.
February 16, 2023
