THE 34-year-old Jigawa State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, is in dire need of preservation from harm, ruin, and loss. And this call for salvation became necessary, given the way its recent political elites are being pushed to adopt self-centeredness at the expense of the general good of the state.
One would have thought that former governor, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar and the present governor, Malam Umar A. Namadi, are sagacious enough to know that political jobbers are not worthy enough to be taken seriously in the realm governance.
They may have their nuisance values, and can be useful in the pursuit of some political advantages, and may be paid off appropriately for whatever jobs they have executed. But they are not to be allowed to dictate the direction, tempo and policy directions of any serious administrator.
It will however appear that the two political leaders are towing the path of ruin by allowing such jobbers to determine the nature of their relationship.
Reports say both leaders are at loggerhead and are going for each other’s throats. Though I cannot ascertain this, the rumors are spreading fast, and I have read a few articles here and there that suggest that all may not be well.
For eight years, Governor Namadi worked under the then Governor Badaru. He was first appointed as the Commissioner of Finance four years before he was nominated to contest with Badaru as Deputy Governor, the position he held for another four years.
Badaru’s decision to nominate Umar Namadi as his deputy governor was a strategic move that showcased his commitment to effective governance in Jigawa State. This nomination not only reflected Badaru’s confidence in Namadi’s capabilities but also highlighted a continuity of leadership aimed at enhancing the state’s development initiatives. Under their collaborative efforts, they have worked towards implementing impactful policies that have positively influenced the lives of citizens across Jigawa State.
It is on record that Badaru superintended the emergence of Namadi as the first governor of Jigawa State to have come from the Northeastern senatorial district of the state.
The Jigawa Southwestern Senatorial District had earlier produced Ali Sa’adu Birnin Kudu and Sule Lamido, while the Northwest had brought Saminu Ibrahim Turaki and Muhammad Badaru Abubakar. The Northeastern, which had hitherto not gotten a shot at the top position, now had its chance.
Come what may, this is not a record that could be downplayed. The credit for this attempt at balancing the political equation goes to Badaru.
It was a historic achievement for Jigawa State. This landmark event is widely recognized as a significant step towards fostering political balance within the state, addressing long-standing regional disparities and promoting inclusivity in governance.
By championing this cause, Badaru not only contributed to the representation of diverse voices within the state’s leadership but also set a precedent that could inspire future political dynamics across Nigeria. His efforts have been lauded by many as essential for enhancing democratic values and ensuring that all regions have an equitable stake in the political landscape.
Now, observers have said that the then Deputy Governor Namadi was a level-headed and loyal assistant to his then boss. The harmony that was observed between the two during Badaru’s two terms as governor attracted the envy of many Nigerian governors and their deputies.
Badaru is now Nigeria’s defense minister while Namadi is the governor of Jigawa State, two roles that are huge, tedious and important in their respective rights.
These two gentlemen therefore need to continue to assist each other to surmount their various governance challenges.
Nigeria is currently grappling with a multitude of security challenges that threaten its stability and the safety of its citizens. The most prominent issues include the persistent threat from militant Islamist groups such as Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWA) and now Lakurawa. In addition, Nigeria faces significant internal conflicts stemming from clashes between nomadic herders and sedentary farmers over land and resources exacerbated by climate change. Banditry has also surged, particularly in the northwest, where armed groups frequently kidnap individuals for ransom.
The governor should not be seen or even perceived to be undermining the minister. Rather, he should render to him whatever support he could as the chief security officer of his state.
Jigawa State, on the other hand, has faced numerous challenges over the years, including economic development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Need for collaboration
In this context, it is essential for both the former governor and the current governor to collaborate effectively to propel the state towards sustainable growth and development.
A collaborative approach between the former and current governors can foster a shared vision for the state’s future. The former governor possesses valuable experience and insights gained during their tenure. By working together, they can align their goals and strategies to create a comprehensive development plan that addresses the needs of the citizens. This shared vision can help unify various stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and citizens, around common objectives.
The former governor’s experience is an invaluable asset that can be leveraged by the current administration. They have firsthand knowledge of past policies, successes, and failures that can inform current decision-making processes.
By engaging in dialogue with the former governor, the current governor can gain insights into effective governance practices and avoid repeating mistakes from previous administrations. This exchange of knowledge can lead to more informed policy decisions that are beneficial for Jigawa State.
Political stability is vital for any state’s progress. A cooperative relationship between the two governors can help mitigate political tensions that may arise from differing party affiliations or governance styles.
By publicly demonstrating their commitment to working together for the greater good of Jigawa State, they can set an example for other political leaders and foster a culture of collaboration rather than division. This stability is crucial for attracting investments and fostering economic growth.
- Muhammad, an indigene of Jigawa, writes from Lagos.