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From MAKAFI to AWAKAI: The Display of Blind Politics and Political Idolatry

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10 months ago

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By: Ibrahim Ishaq (Ɗan’uwa Rano)

When people embrace labels like ‘blind followers’ or ‘sheepish supporters’, they are not practicing democracy, they are surrendering their humanity. And democracy cannot thrive without independent minds

First of all, I must express my gratitude to my teacher, Dr. Auwalu Anwar. From his article titled *’From Sawaba to Asara’*, I gained deeper knowledge and clearer understanding of who Kwankwaso is and what Kwankwasiyya represents. That lecture opened my eyes and strengthened my resolve to write this short reflection, particularly on how blind and sycophantic politics has taken root among our people, from leaders to followers.

Blind politics is not limited to the reckless words of followers who degrade their own human dignity. It also includes the irresponsible utterances of political leaders directed at their followers – words which sometimes insult human beings whom Allah has honored, corrupt public morality, and promote thuggery and disrespect among the youth.

The word of our Creator provides a key reminder about the honor and dignity of human beings. Allah Himself declared that He has ennobled mankind. In the commentary of scholars, this means that man is not to be humiliated or debased. If we accept this truth, then why should we call ourselves “blind” (MAKAFI) when Allah has not afflicted us with blindness? Why should we label ourselves “sheep” (AWAKAI)? The truth is, this is nothing but a reckless way of expressing loyalty to a leader within a political system, without considering the danger such behavior poses to our very lives.

To be fair and historically accurate, Kwankwaso and his followers were not the first to engage in this destructive culture of blind loyalty. It dates back to the Second Republic, during the administration of the late Abubakar Rimi, the first civilian governor of the old Kano State. In fact, many of the political strategies and public speaking style that Kwankwaso employs today were learned from the late Abubakar Rimi Limamin Canji “Leader of Change.”

At the height of Rimi’s popularity, he also had blind followers – some went so far as to claim that even if Rimi were to jump into fire, they would follow him. This should not surprise anyone, considering the level of popularity Rimi enjoyed, which Kwankwaso has not yet attained. Several scholars and historians confirmed this. Among them is Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, Chairman of the Kano Council of Ulama and a former gubernatorial candidate under the ADC, who affirmed this point during an interview I conducted with him on ‘Bakon Mako’. Likewise, Musa Nuhu Yankaba, former publicity secretary of the NNPP in Kano (before the party split), also confirmed this claim after parting ways with Kwankwasiyya. He is now the secretary of the NNPP’s “fresh faction” in Kano.

Even before Rimi, traces of this culture existed – some information even suggest that during the days of Mallam Aminu Kano, known as Tabo and Santsi, there were also leaders whose reckless words were tolerated and who enjoyed blind loyalty from their followers.

Bringing it closer to our own time, we have witnessed political leaders make degrading remarks filled with insults against fellow human beings. For example, recently the Kano APC chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, became notorious for his slogan “ko da tsiya ko da tsiya-tsiya” (“by force or by whatever means”), in addition to other foul remarks directed at his political opponents. Similarly, Alhassan Ado Doguwa, member representing Doguwa and Tudunwada Federal Constituency, once assembled his followers and asked them: “Who will you vote for in 2023?” When they shouted “APC,” instead of him stopping there, he went further and abusively declared: “If you don’t vote APC, then you will vote for your father!”

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What is most shocking is that none of his associates or followers objected or cautioned him. Instead, they cheered him with excitement. This clearly reflects how blind politics has gained ground among leaders and followers alike.

Even in neighboring states, we see similar patterns. In Jigawa, for instance, Governor Mallam Umar Namadi Ɗanmoɗi has supporters who go to great lengths to portray him as infallible: asserting that everything he does is always correct. They lavish him with praise, often saying, *“Mallam yana kan daidai”* (“The Mallam is always right”).

Yet, as a scholar, Governor Namadi surely knows the truth: no human being is without error. Only Allah Almighty and our beloved Prophet, peace be upon him – are free from mistakes.

So why, if he truly understands this, does he allow his supporters to keep feeding him such flattery? Why does he sometimes show visible pleasure when they claim he is always right? This is the essence of political sycophancy: the supporters know they are speaking falsehoods, the leader knows the lies, yet both tolerate them for the sake of politics.

But where the situation becomes most alarming is within Kwankwasiyya, in Kano. Many of its members have openly accepted labeling themselves not only as blind followers *’MAKAFI’*, but also as sheep *’AWAKAI’*, just to please their leader. The piercing looks Kwankwaso gives when addressing his “blind” and “sheepish” supporters, along with the language he uses, convinces them that he is their only political idol. They are ready to accept anything he does as right.

In my archive, I came across a video where Kwankwaso gathered people and boasted about his contributions to the education of citizens from poor families – who he claimed he turned into “people of worth.” On the basis of this, he openly declared: “Any okada rider (tricycle rider) who does not place my poster at the back of his bike, may God’s curse be upon him.”

Another recent event further confirms what my teacher, Dr. Auwalu Anwar, once said: “Kwankwaso is a political fraudster who manipulates the gullibility of his followers for his own gain.” Recently, at a political gathering of his loyalists, he openly declared: “We have a party, and we are comfortable in it. Anyone who wants to talk to us, our door is open for alliances.”

In reality, this statement does not reflect the language of a nationalist or a visionary leader. At a time when politicians like Atiku Abubakar, with nearly 7 million votes in the last election, and Peter Obi, with over 6 million votes, are willing to sacrifice personal interests to unite for Nigeria’s survival, Kwankwaso, with barely 1 million votes – presents himself as a commander of a great army, insisting that others must come and negotiate with him. This alone shows clearly that he is a self-serving political merchant, arrogant and indifferent to the national interest – traits that God does not love.

In summary, all the misbehavior of Kwankwaso’s supporters, their insults to respectable people, their blind loyalty and their acceptance of being called animals – has never once been rebuked by him. On the contrary, he often appears delighted, as though he enjoys watching them degrade themselves. Yet the greatest danger of this style of politics is that it will eventually backfire, even on Kwankwaso himself. And history is never lenient with anyone.

Blindness of the heart surpasses even the blindness of the eyes. To willingly embrace the idea of being blind or behaving like sheep is to confess to the death of independent thought. Sheep, ‘AWAKAI’ after all, do not question, do not resist, and do not reason – they simply follow. When human beings reduce themselves to this level in the name of loyalty, politics ceases to be politics, it becomes worship.

This culture of blind allegiance is dangerous for democracy. It shields politicians from accountability and silences critical voices, creating an environment where incompetence and corruption thrive unchecked. The more people boast of their blindness and sheepishness, the more they strengthen the chains that bind their own freedom.

What is worse is the pride with which many now accept this degradation. To call oneself a “sheep” in service of a political leader is not humility – it is humiliation. It is a public declaration that one’s reason has been sacrificed on the altar of sycophancy. And a society where sycophancy is celebrated cannot build a future on justice, fairness, or truth.

Let this brief reflection serve as a wake-up call: Until Kano abandons the politics of blind loyalty and sycophancy, its future will remain hostage to the whims of demigods.

May Allah grant us wisdom, courage, and long, beneficial lives.

Ibrahim Ishaq (Ɗan’uwa Rano)
Email: _danuwarano@gmail.com_
Telephone: _+2348056479966_

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How Umar Haruna Doguwa Is Uniting Kano APC for Tinubu and Governor Abba to Succeed in 2027 Elections

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1 day ago

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July 12, 2026

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By Sadiq Ali Sango

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the importance of party unity cannot be overstated. Political parties that enter elections divided often struggle to achieve their objectives, regardless of the popularity of their candidates.

In Kano State, one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Umar Haruna Doguwa, appears to have made unity the cornerstone of his leadership.

Since assuming office as chairman of the Kano APC, Doguwa has devoted considerable energy to reconciling party members, strengthening internal structures and restoring confidence among stakeholders.

His leadership style has been characterised by consultation, inclusiveness and constant engagement with party leaders and grassroots members across the state.

One of the notable developments under his leadership has been the return of key political figures to the APC.

The decision of former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, and prominent politician Bello Hayatu Gwarzo to join the party has been widely interpreted by supporters as evidence of renewed confidence in the APC’s leadership and direction in Kano.

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Another important test of leadership came during the party’s primary elections. In many states, party primaries often end in prolonged disputes and defections.

In Kano, however, the APC leadership worked to minimise disagreements. Where misunderstandings arose, Doguwa reportedly prioritised dialogue and reconciliation, meeting with stakeholders and encouraging peaceful resolutions.

These efforts helped the party move forward with fewer internal divisions.

His commitment to party cohesion is perhaps most visible in his ongoing tour of Kano’s 44 local government areas. Rather than limiting his engagements to state-level meetings, he has chosen to visit local party structures, meeting with elders, women, youth groups and ward executives.

The objective is to strengthen relationships, address concerns, encourage unity and prepare the party’s grassroots machinery well ahead of the next elections.

Supporters believe this grassroots mobilisation is essential because Kano has historically played a decisive role in Nigeria’s electoral politics.

A united and well-organised party structure, they argue, will be better positioned to mobilise voters and conduct effective campaigns.

Doguwa’s political mission extends beyond managing the affairs of the APC. His ambition is to build a united platform capable of supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and all APC candidates in achieving success in the 2027 elections. This objective explains his emphasis on reconciliation, inclusion and grassroots engagement.

Doguwa believes that electoral success begins long before campaigns officially commence. It starts with building trust among party members, resolving differences early and ensuring that every stakeholder feels valued. His consultations across the state reflect that philosophy.

Politics is ultimately about organisation as much as popularity. Elections are won not only through campaign rallies but also through strong party structures, disciplined members and effective grassroots mobilisation.

As the countdown to the next general elections continues, sustaining internal cohesion may prove to be one of the APC’s greatest assets. If the current reconciliation efforts are maintained and the party continues to consolidate its support base, Kano APC could approach the 2027 elections with greater confidence and organisational strength than it has enjoyed in recent years.

Sadiq Ali Sango is an APC Youth Activist based in Kano

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Kano Secured: HE Garo Represents Gov Yusuf at High-Level Northern Security Summit

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2 days ago

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July 11, 2026

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By Abba Anwar

Kano State Deputy Governor, His Excellency Murtala Sule Garo represented his principal, His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the recently held Northern Nigeria Security Summit in Kaduna. An action commended by experts bearing in mind the legacy left by HE Garo in the promotion of peace and security when he was Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs. Among other reasons.

It is believe that, Governor Yusuf saw wisdom in sending his Deputy, for the simple reason that, he clearly understands how HE Garo was instrumental in the peace the state enjoyed before his coming to power in 2023. In the last administration.

At the state level, before the coming of this administration, the then administration gave Garo, then Commissioner, some portion of the responsibility of promoting peace and fighting insecurity across our 44 local government areas. Go and ask for further details from the then Chairmen of the LGs. And see productivity and commitment in place.

Zonal Security Summits were held across the three Senatorial Districts the, when local government councils played key role in collaboration with security agencies in managing the entire process. As Commissioner for local governments, Garo proved his mettle in the areas of peace building and standardization of security architecture and network.

Those who were involved in the process then, can better understand what this piece is saying. One cannot take away the credit of peace building and secured environment in the state, in the last administration. That became possible and sustainable due to the full cooperation of the security agencies and the proper teamwork of relevant stakeholders.

I was amazed when I spotted HE Garo in Kaduna in the midst of Northern states’ governors attending an all-important and all-inclusive Northern Nigeria Security Summit, which is still in the labor room trying to give birth to Northern Nigeria Security Trust Fund. Where each and every state is earmarked and expected to contribute One Billion Naira (N1b) monthly.

The Summit was under the leadership of the Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Governor of Gombe state, His Excellency Muhammad Yahaya Inuwa, came at the right time and with the right people, our able Governors. May Almighty Allah see you through.

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I saw wisdom in Governor Yusuf’s decision to send his Deputy HE Garo to represent him there. Apart from being another indication showcasing how confident the Governor is, in his Deputy, it also clearly shows that HE Yusuf knows and understands why teamwork with clear purpose means.

I can still remember vividly clear that in the last administration Garo’s unwavering support to peaceful Kano, through enhancement of community policing strategy and management, stemming from our local communities was visible and encouraging. Kudos to all the then local governments Chairmen, across all the 44 local governments in the state.

With this Security Trust Fund, if allowed to work, with the federal cooperation, the eluded peace in the North could start rebooting. Especially when political will is embedded in the entire process.

When Governor Inuwa highlighted that, “Across the North, in every state, the threats posed by banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, drug abuse and other forms of criminality have continued to undermine peaceful coexistence, disrupt livelihoods and weaken social cohesion, thereby slowing down the pace of development in our great region,” what readily came to my mind was, how Governor Yusuf’s administration is putting efforts on youth empowerment and fight against drug abuse.

To fight the nefarious activities of the underworld, Kano established Neighborhood Watch Guards few months back. They are dispatched to communities for enhancing our security system and strategy. Vices like house burglary, phone snatching, etc are downsized profoundly. Unlike before the coming on board of the Watch. This also helps in drastically changing the narrative on youth restiveness.

Few days to the Northern Nigeria Security Summit, Kano state Governor Yusuf announced the establishment of the High-Powered State Task Force on Fight Against Drug Abuse. What is so fascinating, is not the body, but the leadership and its structure. The leadership of the Task Force alone shows political will and genuine commitment from the part of the government.

In other words, Kano has been aligning with the philosophy behind the spirit of the just unveiled Northern Nigeria Security Summit, which gives birth to the Security Trust Fund.

The Governor’s representative in the person of HE Garo reveals much in the honest commitment of the state. Being one of the brains behind Kano’s feats in the area of peace and security, as obtained in the last administration. His contributions towards the peaceful Kano then, was spotted by many security operatives at the time. So sending him to represent his principal, the Governor, at the Northern Security Summit, was not by mere coincidence. It was assessed, deliberated upon, agreed and soundly designed.

The LOYAL DEPUTY (emphasis mine), as described by Governor Yusuf in recently held public event, believes in charting a new course for the security of Kano, Northern Nigeria and the country in general. In so many private discussions long before now, since his time as Commissioner in the last administration, I know how deeply concerned he has been in the security of the Northern Nigeria. So exposing him to this regional effort is commendable by all standard.

Anwar writes from Kano
Saturday, 11th July, 2026

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Murtala Sule Garo: A Deputy Governor Earning His Principal’s Trust

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4 days ago

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July 9, 2026

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I am neither a praise singer, a bloviator, nor a rabble-rouser. In fact, I have deliberately avoided writing personalities into public discourse unless there is a compelling reason to do so. Today, however, I find myself making an exception.

That exception is the Deputy Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, popularly known as Commander.

Some may ask: Why him? Why now?

The answer is simple.

Recently, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf publicly acknowledged the loyalty, commitment and dedication of his deputy. Though I am paraphrasing the governor’s remarks, the message was unmistakable. It was not the routine political compliment often exchanged in public gatherings. It was an expression of confidence that appeared to come from conviction.

In government, trust is one of the most valuable currencies. Governors do not hand over sensitive assignments to deputies simply because protocol demands it. They do so because they believe such assignments will be executed competently and faithfully.

Since assuming office as Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo has increasingly become one of the governor’s trusted representatives in engagements that require diplomacy, policy articulation and relationship-building. The pattern is becoming difficult to ignore.

Perhaps the clearest example came during the recent strategic visit by a high-powered delegation of European Union Heads of Mission and their deputies, led by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot.

Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Garo received the delegation and held discussions on issues critical to Kano’s development. The meeting focused on sustainable urban development, youth empowerment, social inclusion, infrastructure, climate resilience and investment opportunities.

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During the engagement, Kano State presented its Urban Development Strategy, developed with technical support from UN-Habitat, outlining a long-term vision for sustainable metropolitan growth, improved infrastructure, regional integration and economic expansion. Garo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to transparency, accountability and creating an enabling environment for responsible local and international investment. The delegation included representatives of UNICEF, GIZ, Plan International, UN-Habitat and other international development partners, underscoring the strategic importance of the engagement.

The assignment was significant. International diplomacy demands preparation, confidence and clarity. Every statement made during such engagements reflects not only the individual speaking but the entire government. That Governor Yusuf entrusted his deputy with that responsibility speaks volumes about the confidence he has in him.

Moreso, Garo again represented Kano State at the North-West Governors’ Forum Policy Dialogue on Reducing Multidimensional Poverty. The dialogue brought together governors, policymakers and development partners to deliberate on practical solutions to poverty, youth unemployment and inclusive economic growth across the North-West. Observers noted that many of the development priorities he articulated during the EU engagement aligned closely with discussions at the regional forum, reinforcing Kano’s commitment to collaborative development.

These are not ceremonial appearances. They are responsibilities that require an understanding of governance, diplomacy and development policy.

Effective governance depends largely on the relationship between a governor and a deputy governor. History has shown that where distrust exists, government often loses focus and the people ultimately pay the price. Conversely, when there is mutual confidence, responsibilities are delegated effectively, decisions are implemented more efficiently and governance becomes more responsive.

The recent public commendation by Governor Yusuf therefore carries significance beyond mere politics. It suggests that Kano currently enjoys a leadership partnership built on cooperation. If that relationship continues to grow, it can only strengthen the administration’s capacity to deliver on its promises.

Judging by the governor’s public endorsement and the calibre of responsibilities already entrusted to him, Murtala Sule Garo appears to be earning that confidence through service rather than rhetoric.

One thing is becoming increasingly clear: Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo is steadily defining the office of the Deputy Governor. By God’s Grace, history will ultimately place him among Kano’s most impactful deputy governors.

Time, as always, will be the ultimate judge.

Muazzamu Muhammad writes from Kano State

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