FORMER Kano State Governor, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has vowed to remain in politics for the rest of his life, insisting that political participation is both a civic and spiritual duty aimed at delivering credible leadership for the country.
News Point Nigeria reports that Shekarau stated this on Wednesday during a media interactive session at his Mundubawa residence in Kano, as part of activities marking his 70th birthday celebration, where he reflected on his political journey, Nigeria’s challenges, and the future of opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The former Minister of Education said his interest in politics is rooted in service and fear of God and not a quest for personal gain.
“I will remain in the political arena for life, and I am not going to check out. Politics is about serving humanity, and as long as I live, I will continue to play my part,” he declared.
He urged Nigerians to participate in the democratic process to ensure the emergence of leaders who will govern with sincerity and fairness, saying political engagement is a religious obligation for responsible citizens.
Shekarau said he has always accepted his political journey as God’s decree.
“Regret only comes when one fails to appreciate Allah’s wisdom. Whatever comes my way, I take it as Allah’s decision.”
He recalled his early leadership roles since the 1980s and expressed pride in defeating an incumbent governor in Kano — a historic electoral feat in the state.
Speaking about 2027 politics, Shekarau emphasized the need for a party-based coalition, dismissing individual alliances like those involving opposition presidential candidates.
“When individuals get together without their parties, that is not a coalition. The merger that formed the APC in 2013 — ANPP, ACN, CPC, and part of APGA is what true coalition should look like.”
He maintained that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite its internal crisis, remains the most stable opposition platform:
“Whatever you say about the PDP, it is still the only surviving party among those registered in 1998. It will continue to survive by the grace of God.”
He encouraged smaller parties like ADC, Labour, and SDP to align with the PDP to challenge the ruling APC effectively.
Assessing President Bola Tinubu’s performance, Shekarau said government efforts remain below average, especially in fighting insecurity where Nigerians continue to be “slaughtered like animals.”
On the economy, he insisted that food accessibility is the most important measure of progress:
“Whatever government does, if it does not create easy access to food, it is rubbish. When people can eat and live well, they will be peaceful.”
Responding to US President Donald Trump’s recent threat linked to killings of Christians in Nigeria, Shekarau cautioned against escalating diplomatic tensions.
“Even if the American government is fed with wrong information, Nigeria must manage the issue politically and diplomatically. Two wrongs don’t make a right.”
Thanking Allah for his life, Shekarau appreciated his late parents, family, associates, and supporters for molding his journey.
“Leadership is a trust from Allah, not a privilege or source of power. We must serve with fairness, honesty, and accountability.”