Politics

BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

Published

4 years ago

June 10, 2022

News Net Global

BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

BY CHRIS GYANG

Nothing rattles Mr. President. That is, the way the leader of a country that has fulfilled all the undignified requirements of a failed state naturally should.

Confronted with relatively less problems, leaders of other democracies, even dictatorships, have been known to quake, but gather themselves up and trudge on. But not Mr. Buhari. He appears to have crumbled a long time ago from the sheer weight of the responsibilities of governance.

Even the uptick in kidnappings for ransom, armed banditry, Fulani herdsmen’s violent land-grabbing in parts of the Middle Belt, Islamist terrorism, mind-bugling corruption in the corridors of his administration and run-away inflation, among others, do not shake our president no more. Afterall, these are the frightening outcomes of his lethargic, laid-back, leadership style.

Quite instructively, in April this year, a prestigious Scottish university shared the picture of President Buhari on twitter reclining comfortably on a settee at the presidential palace picking his teeth, obviously after a sumptuous meal. This is in stark contrast with the poverty, hunger and general state of discontent ravaging ordinary Nigerians. According to the institution, the picture was used to illustrate bad and insensitive leadership. They accurately hit the bull’s eye.

That twitter representation of our president also captured the very essence of the man and his leadership style in a country buffeted on all sides by monstrous problems, most of them caused by a leadership deficit. But even before then, because the president had continued to show an almost complete lack of interest in the burning problems threatening to over-run the country, there was a time it was widely believed that the man in Aso Rock was Buhari’s body double, a foreign impostor from Sudan known as ‘Jubril.’

Many Nigerians could not rationalize how a true national leader could display such crass ambivalence to the tempests tottering the ship of state. And although the conspiracy theory that it was Jubril of Sudan and not the ‘original’ Buhari who gave the plagiarized “I am for no one but for everyone” speech that was at the Villa was later proved wrong, Mr. Buhari has remained as aloof and absent-minded as ever.

Many other Nigerians who claimed he had dementia still hold on to that belief and cite Mr. Buhari’s tepid responses to the killings, abductions for ransom, armed banditry, armed herdsmen’s attacks, etc, as glaring examples.

But there is still a very notable exception to these. Matters of partisan politics, wielding and dispensing power (with large doses of nepotism) and choosing his own successor, excite Mr. President in no small measure. To Buhari and the core northern political, religious and feudal establishments, political power is an end in itself. They proudly call it MULKI up north and hanker after it with uncommon zeal.

For them, controlling the levers of the Federal Government is sufficient, even if large swathes of their own states are in the hands of terrorists, bandits and other well-armed gangs. For them, it is enough to be president even if your region holds the ignoble record of having the largest number of poor people and out of school children in the country, not to mention their concomitant consequences.

Unfortunately, it is these and such other beliefs that have underpinned Buhari’s administration in the last seven years. And it is on that basis that he wishes to impose another northerner on the country during his APC’s presidential convention.

It is so frightening that President Buhari’s misplaced but growing sense of entitlement, self-accomplishment and self-worth make him feel that he should be allowed by the ruling APC to single-handedly determine its presidential candidate in next year’s election. Apparently, he wants to perpetuate this sweltering nightmare, state of anomy, that has become Nigeria’s new normal since he assumed power in 2015.

In a meeting with APC governors on May 31, 2022, President Buhari spelt out his demand in no uncertain terms. DAILY TRUST newspaper (June 1, 2023) captured it this way: “President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday dropped a bombshell when he told the governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to allow him to make a choice for his successor.”

According to the tabloid, the governors were taken aback because they had expected the president to allow them choose one of them to succeed him. But the president’s demand should not have come as a surprise to the governors because there appears to have been an understanding between them and the president on this matter. Thus, he reminded them that the Party had already put in place smooth succession plans at the local government, state and national levels.

“For example,” Mr. Buhari explained, “first term governors who have served credibly well have been encouraged to stand for re-election. Similarly, second term governors have been accorded the privilege of promoting successors that are capable of driving their visions as well as the ideals of the party.”

Aggrieved Party members in states such as Plateau who felt that their second-term governors unjustly imposed their successors in the recent primary elections now know that they did so with the tacit backing of Aso Rock. The pact was that the governors would also bend over backwards to serve the interest of Mr. President when it comes to choosing his own successor.

So if such APC members had had any hopes of extracting justice through the intervention of Mr. Buhari or their Party’s national leadership, they should kiss that hope goodbye.

Now the president wants his pound of flesh from the state governors. He is telling them that, in the spirit of give and take, they should also allow him choose the presidential candidate of the APC. During that meeting with the governors, he proceeded to pontificate about the values of democracy and the goals and benefits of good governance in a way that completely belied his democratic credentials and the way he has misled the country so far.

Hear him: “In a few days, the party will be holding its convention during which primaries would take place to pick the presidential flag bearer for the 2023 General Elections. This is a very significant process and its outcome should prove to the world, the positive quality of the APC regarding democratic principles, culture as well as leadership.

“As we approach the Convention, I appeal to all of you to allow our interests to converge, our focus to remain on the changing dynamics of our environment, the expectations of our citizens and the global community. Our objective must be the victory of our party and our choice of candidate must be someone who would give the Nigerian masses a sense of victory and confidence even before the elections.” Mere platitudes, as usual.

Also Read: Kashim Shettima: Victory at the end

The president even emphasized the need to meet the expectations of the global community as if he had made any spirited attempts in his seven years in office to effectively leverage on the strategic position and immense human and natural resources of the country to make it a key global player.

With an intractable Islamist rebellion and armed Fulani herdsmen’s expansionism going on almost unabated, the Buhari administration has consistently shown the international community that it lacks the moral courage and political will to put a stop to these and other forms of bloody criminality that have become the order of the day all over the country. As a result, most of the global community has now adopted a stand-and-watch attitude towards Nigeria as it goes about its half-hearted motions of battling insecurity.

It is a continuation of this that the president wants the APC to allow him perpetuate by choosing a northern candidate to succeed him. No doubt, the feeling that he wants to impose a northern candidate on the APC has caused great disquite in the ranks of the party and frayed a lot of nerves. Apparently, now that it suits their whims, power shift and zoning may as well go to the dogs. But once upon a time, in fact only about eight years ago, Buhari and the core north tightly held on to these principles with religious zeal and threatened to upset the political apple cart if they were not strictly upheld. And they had their way because good reason prevailed.

The outbursts of the National Leader of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on June 2, 2022, at Abeokuta, Ogun State, clearly underscored this growing tension, dissatisfaction and suspicion both within the APC and the polity generally, considering the fact that it is this political party that is in charge of running the affairs of the country.

In obvious response to Buhari’s shinanigans, an apparently frustrated Tinubu declared: “If not me that led the war front, Buhari wouldn’t have emerged. He contested first, second and third times, but lost. He even said on television that he won’t contest again.

“But I went to his home in Katsina. I told him you would contest and win, but you won’t joke with the matters of the Yorubas. Since he has emerged, I have not been appointed minister. I didn’t get contract. This time, it’s Yoruba turn and in Yorubaland, it’s my tenure.”

In the last few days, there have been strong indications that the president may very likely cave in to pressure from the cabal in the Presidency, chiefly made up of his relatives and a few high-ranking officials in his government, and select between the Senate President, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan (an ultra-conservative core northerner) and former Zamfara State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Yarima (the man who first introduced Sharia as state law while he was governor) as the APC’s consensus presidential candidate. Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anger must have been fueled by these widespread speculations which are gradually gaining traction.

But in a swift response, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Babachir David Lawan, lashed out at Tinubu’s grandstanding, describing it as ‘bulshit’ (sic). Now, it’s significant to note that this is coming from a man who is one of Tinubu’s closest political allies. In fact, he was among the heavyweights that purchased the APC Presidential nomination form for Tinubu and has been a leading force in his campaign to be President in 2023.

But Lawan, a self-professed northerner, appears to have sided with the core north and Mr. Buhari against his political ally. And his vituperations would further reveal the deep-seated suspicion the core north has harboured against the Yoruba, spanning decades. VANGUARD newspaper quoted him as saying: “Sometimes it is very difficult to support a Yoruba person in national politics if you are not one.

“They have a way of making you regret your support because they eventually make you seem like a traitor to your own people. Now all these comments about Bola’s Yoruba presidency and his support of Buhari without which Buhari would not have been President is bulshit.”

He pointed out that there were many other Nigerians from other parts of the country who also contributed in making Mr. Buhari President but were “not bragging about it” and expressed regret that “You may wish to know that all of us Buhari supporters are shocked and pissed off by Bola’s speech on this occasion. It is unlike him.

“And this speech is massively trending in the North and being given a negative connotation as you can well imagine. I first read it this morning on an Adamawa group platform and the anger is palpable and all round.”

Certainly, the fact that Buhari wishes to single-handedly select the APC Presidential candidate is creating big cracks in the APC as old comrades tear each other to shreds, egged on by their deep ethnic and regional cleavages. These have now been exposed by the stress of this brutal struggle for the APC Presidential ticket. But Babachir Lawan is not yet done. He must remind the Yoruba and other Nigerians about one of Bola Tinubu’s tribesmen whose stars, he believes, were dimmed by similar attitudes.

“This appears to be the Abiola saga,” he said, “being replayed. Abiola won the election with majority Northern votes but they took the brunt of the post-election protests that followed.

“Just survey all the people that are doing more meaningful practical things to enthron (sic) Bola as President and you will find that almost all are northerners while his kinsmen engage themselves in social media activism and Northern bashing.

“When Yorubas vilify the North like this, our sense of fear and insecurity under a Yoruba presidency gets heightened and in the end, pushes us to re-think our support for not only Bola but any Yoruba as President for that matter.”

But he concluded on this rather conciliatory note: “Please, do not join our opponents to destroy our chances of clinching Monday’s primary elections.”

Nevertheless, Buhari’s consensus candidate gambit has already done irreparable damage to the APC. It can only get worse and may well be the last straw that will break this camel’s back. Buhari is taking a dangerous shot in the dark.

He is blindly groping in the dark, like he has done with the destiny of Nigerians and their motherland in the last seven years, with these catastrophic consequences. In this highly risky blind man’s buff game he is playing, the odds are dangerously high. He may just lay his hands on the wrong person. And things will definitely fall apart.

(GYANG is the Chairman of the N.G.O, Journalists Coalition for Citizens’ Rights Initiative – JCCRI. Visit our website: https://jccri-online.org. Follow us on our Twitter handle: @jccri1. Facebook

page: facebook.com/jccrionline. Emails: info@jccrionline.org; chrisgyang01@gmail.com)

BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

Politics

Zulum Successor 2027: Four Names Trending on the Borno Social Media Platform

Published

6 hours ago

December 18, 2025

News Net Global

Zulum Successor 2027: Four Names Trending on the Borno Social Media Platform

Zulum Successor 2027: Four Names Trending on the Borno Social Media Platform

By: Dr. James Bwala

The 2027 Borno governorship elections are set to be pivotal as the state continues its journey toward recovery and development following years of insurgency. As a journalist, I was very curious about activities going back home, with special interest on perceived gladiators in the next political game. But here I shall be concentrating on the APC as the ruling political party following recent comments on social media platforms dedicated to Borno politics, which suggest heightened interest in the upcoming elections, with several names emerging, but the top contenders or the most preferred candidates for the people keep floating comments on this platform as I browse through.

Among them are Minister of Agriculture Senator Abubakar Kyari, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Senator M. T. Monguno, and Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu. Each of these individuals has made notable contributions to their constituencies and possesses distinct strengths that could benefit Borno State. However, as the political landscape evolves, it is essential to analyze their individual merits and shortcomings to ascertain who might best serve as the next governor, succeeding Professor Babagana Umara Zulum. For now, I will be very brief on these special candidates from their individual views in the state. However, I will take time to view the individuals from a critical viewpoint when the time is ripe.

Senator Abubakar Kyari. As the current Minister of Agriculture, Kyari has been instrumental in implementing agricultural reforms aimed at bolstering food security and self-sufficiency in Nigeria. His initiatives have focused on empowering farmers through better access to technology, training, and financial assistance. In Borno, where agriculture remains a vital sector for economic revival, his experience could be invaluable. Furthermore, Kyari’s reputation as a diligent public servant who prioritizes the welfare of his constituents adds to his appeal. However, critics argue that his ministerial role has kept him distant from grassroots issues, potentially limiting his understanding of local needs. Whether or not what the critics revealed is true or false, I hope to dig into this in the days ahead when we take a closer look at Senator Abubakar Kyari on his political journey and how he relates with the grassroots in Borno State.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/the-voice-of-dan-balki-an-attempt-to-derail-the-gains-of-building-a-stronger-north-with-vp-kashim-shettima-as-jagoran-arewa/

Barr. Kaka Shehu Lawan, SAN, who is currently serving as senator representing Borno Central in the National Assembly, is believed to have learned the ropes fast, and his understanding of the political boiling pots of Borno provides him with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of what is ahead. Lawan has been an advocate for various policies aimed at improving infrastructure and education in Borno State. His established connections with federal agencies could facilitate funding and support for developmental projects. Nevertheless, his perception amongst classical and orthodox traditional and political elites in Borno may have challenged his ambition. But who knows what powers stood behind this young and vibrant politician, who is at equal in the ring for power struggles? In the days ahead a deeper revelation of his capacity to push through the storms may be revealed between his age, experience, and the powers he wielded to challenge those who may stand in his way.

Senator M. T. Monguno is another strong contender, particularly known for his engagement with youth and grassroots movements. His approach to governance emphasizes transparency and accountability, appealing to constituents tired of traditional political maneuvering. Monguno’s advocacy for youth empowerment and vocational training resonates in a state where unemployment remains high. However, despite his positive rhetoric, he faces skepticism about his ability to translate vision into action amid systemic bureaucratic challenges. As the days draw, we shall see how he waxed the odds to prove wrong his detractors within the political arena of Borno and show strength in the mounting storms.

Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu could be the last of the most admired. He has been in the green chambers in the National Assembly for a decade. Betara has garnered attention for his pragmatic approach to governance. His tenure as a member of the House of Representatives has seen him champion initiatives aimed at improving health care access and economic opportunities for the underprivileged. Aliyu’s dedication to community service has earned him respect among many Borno residents. Critics argue that he has limited exposure to the field he is trading on compared to seasoned politicians, who could raise concerns regarding his capability to navigate the complexities of state governance. There is more to politics than the voices, which we always said are rented. Betara will be revealed deeply on an individual analysis as the days unveil his strategy and rhetorical standing ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election in Borno State.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/the-voice-of-dan-balki-an-attempt-to-derail-the-gains-of-building-a-stronger-north-with-vp-kashim-shettima-as-jagoran-arewa/

While each candidate possesses unique strengths, it is crucial to consider their weaknesses and how these may impact their potential effectiveness as governor. The political dynamics of Borno are intricate, influenced by historical conflicts, socio-economic disparities, and a desire for meaningful change. Voter sentiment will likely shift towards candidates who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of these factors and can provide actionable solutions.

An analysis of public perception on social media indicates a growing desire for leaders who prioritize people’s welfare over party loyalty. The emerging trend suggests that citizens are becoming increasingly discerning, demanding accountability and genuine engagement from their leaders. Potential candidates must not only articulate their visions for Borno but also showcase their commitment to listening to constituents and addressing their concerns.

Campaign strategies will play a critical role in determining which candidate garners the most support. Each candidate must address pressing issues such as security, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Post-insurgency Borno faces unique challenges, including the resettlement of displaced persons, restoring trust in governance, and rebuilding the economy. Candidates who can effectively communicate their plans and unify the electorate around shared goals will stand a better chance of securing victory in 2027.

As we move closer to the election, it is important to encourage dialogue surrounding the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate. A robust public discourse will not only highlight the most viable candidates but also hold them accountable for their promises and actions. Engaging the electorate through town halls, debates, and social media discussions will provide insights into the candidates’ thought processes and how they align with the aspirations of Borno citizens.

The race for the Borno governorship in 2027 is poised to be intense as notable figures vie for the position once held by Professor Babagana Umara Zulum. Senator Abubakar Kyari, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Senator M. T. Monguno, and Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu each bring unique strengths to the table. However, their success will depend on their ability to connect with voters, address pressing issues, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the people of Borno. As the political atmosphere heats up, it is essential for the electorate to remain informed, engage in discussions, and critically assess the capabilities of the candidates vying for the leadership of Borno State.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Zulum Successor 2027: Four Names Trending on the Borno Social Media Platform

Politics

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting: Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s ₦50,000,000 Support—A Testament to Leadership and Commitment

Published

2 weeks ago

December 6, 2025

News Net Global

Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting: Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s ₦50,000,000 Support—A Testament to Leadership and Commitment

By: Dr. James Bwala

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting, held on December 6, 2025, at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, Borno State, showcased a moment of unity, gratitude, and inspiration. Under the esteemed leadership of His Royal Highness Alh (Dr.) Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Shehu Umar Al’amin El-kanemi, this gathering brought together an array of individuals who share a common bond through their educational background. However, the focal point of the event was the commendation of one of their own, Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu, whose unwavering commitment to his constituents and remarkable leadership qualities struck a chord with all attendees.

Represented by Mr. Samaila Ayuba (Kojak), Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s influence reverberated throughout the auditorium during the reunion meeting. As the member representing the Biu, Kwaya-Kusar, Bayo, and Shani federal constituency, he epitomizes what it means to be a servant leader. His distinct approach towards governance, combined with his proactive humanitarian efforts, has set a standard for political representatives. Attendees lauded his initiatives, which range from infrastructural development projects to educational programs, ensuring that the essence of democracy—serving the people—is alive and robust in his leadership style.

Mr. Samaila Ayuba (Kojak)

One cannot understate the significance of these accolades bestowed upon Hon. Betara Aliyu during the reunion. Each narrative shared about his contributions illustrated a profound understanding of the needs of his constituents, encapsulating empathy as a core driver of effective leadership. The alumni’s praise for him serves as a reminder that elected officials must prioritize the welfare of the communities they serve. In an era where political apathy is rampant and disillusionment with public figures prevails, Hon. Betara Aliyu stands as a beacon of hope. He demonstrates that political authority can indeed align with genuine care for the populace’s well-being.

Also, Hon. Betara Aliyu’s gesture of announcing a substantial donation of fifty million naira (₦50,000,000.00) as transportation support for the attendees further exemplifies his dedication. This act transcends mere financial assistance; it displays an extraordinary commitment to inclusivity and participation. By facilitating the attendance of fellow alumni, he not only strengthens bonds among them but also underscores the importance of collective engagement in societal issues. It is essential to recognize that true leadership extends beyond policy-making; it often manifests in the tangible ways leaders empower others to come together and collaborate for common goals.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-voice-of-dan-balki-an-attempt-to-derail-the-gains-of-building-a-stronger-north-with-vp-kashim-shettima-as-jagoran-arewa/

In the context of political gatherings like the Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion, the communal prayers and wishes expressed for Hon. Betara Aliyu’s success in his political endeavors are deeply significant. They form a spiritual and moral foundation that fortifies his current initiatives and future aspirations. Such collective support is vital for leaders navigating the complexities of political life. The tribute paid to him at this meeting signifies a communal affirmation of shared values rooted in integrity, compassion, and respect—all pivotal for sustainable governance.

As we reflect on the commendation of Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu, it becomes essential to advocate for a paradigm shift among aspiring leaders who may look towards politics as a means of personal gain rather than community upliftment. Drawing lessons from this event, potential candidates in Nigeria must embrace the ethos exhibited by Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu. They ought to engage with their communities meaningfully, develop sustainable initiatives, and foster relationships built on trust and transparency. It is incumbent upon those seeking to serve the public to inject a sense of purpose into their pursuits, recognizing that their actions directly impact the lives of their constituents.

Indeed, alumni networks such as the Beneshiekh group play a crucial role in propelling social change. They possess the unique capacity to mobilize resources, share knowledge, and create platforms for collaboration among individuals who have walked similar educational paths. The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting should be viewed not only as a celebration of fellowship but also as a catalyst for ongoing dialogues on community issues. Participants should leverage this network to propose initiatives that align with Hon. Betara Aliyu’s vision for development. By working collectively, they can amplify their voices and foster a culture of mutual accountability among both leaders and constituents.

Lastly, it is worth emphasizing that lasting change is not an overnight endeavor. The reunion meeting serves as a reminder that the path to effective leadership involves continuous learning, adaptation, and engagement. To retain the spirit of this gathering, members should consider forming committees focused on specific issues within their constituencies, guiding future leaders to action based on the best practices exemplified by Hon. Betara Aliyu. The key lies in maintaining momentum and harnessing the collective potential of the alumni network, thus establishing a legacy anchored in activism and civic responsibility.

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting offered more than a chance to reminisce; it provided an opportunity to reaffirm the values and responsibilities of leadership. Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s recognition serves as a catalyst for inspiring countless individuals to commit to public service with integrity and compassion. As communities grapple with various socio-economic challenges, let the words of gratitude and prayers offered during this gathering translate into actionable steps that pave the way for a brighter future. Indeed, alumni and community leaders should collectively hold each other accountable, ensuring that aspirations and actions reflect a genuine commitment to the society we serve.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting: Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s ₦50,000,000 Support—A Testament to Leadership and Commitment

Politics

The Voice of Dan Balki: An Attempt to Derail the Gains of Building a Stronger North with VP Kashim Shettima as “Jagoran Arewa”

Published

2 weeks ago

December 4, 2025

News Net Global

VP Shettima

The Voice of Dan Balki: An Attempt to Derail the Gains of Building a Stronger North with VP Kashim Shettima as “Jagoran Arewa”

By: Dr. James Bwala

The emergence of influential voices and opposing forces shapes not only the political ideologies in the North but also the trajectories of leadership, particularly now that the North is seeking one true leader under its umbrella to champion the course of the North returning history to the glorious days of its shining. Many voices supporting the One North rise are rallying around Nigeria’s vice president, Kashim Shettina. But opposing forces are marching in their characters and building on rented voices. One such figure is Dan Balki, whose rhetoric and activism against Vice President Kashim Shettima embody a larger struggle for the soul of Northern Nigeria. As Shettima assumes the mantle of “Jagoran Arewa,” or the leader of the North, by his position as Nigeria’s vice president, it becomes paramount to dissect the implications of Dan Balki’s recent opposition and the collective efforts of dissenting factions aiming to undermine Shettima’s God-given position of leadership chosen from amongst hundreds and perhaps thousands who feel equally important for this ambitious position.

Despite the pushback posed by Dan Balki and his allies, Shettima’s vision for a stronger North remains valid and essential for the region’s socio-political and economic advancement. To understand the contentious relationship between Dan Balki and Shettima, we must first delve into the historical context that has plagued Northern Nigeria. The North has faced myriad challenges ranging from economic deprivation, educational underachievement, and security concerns, culminating in a loss of political power and relevance on the national stage. In this atmosphere of disillusionment and tension, Shettima, formerly the Governor of Borno State, emerged as a beacon of hope, propelled by his development initiatives and commitment to addressing the unique challenges facing the North. His policies aimed at fostering unity, peace, and economic revitalization resonate deeply amidst a populace yearning for effective leadership.

However, the recent emergence of vocal opponents like Dan Balki signifies a critical fracture within Northern politics. Dan Balki’s narrative encapsulates a blend of regionalist sentiment and skepticism towards Shettima’s administration by powerful individuals who are not satisfied with the position they currently occupy. Framing Shettima as a pawn of broader national politics, these individuals are using Dan Balki to leverage populist rhetoric to cultivate dissent among constituents, thus sowing seeds of division. His recent arguments often highlight grievances related to perceived neglect of certain local interests or failure to adequately involve grassroots stakeholders in decision-making processes. These tactics are reminiscent of age-old political maneuverings in which leaders are pitted against one another to create distractions from pressing issues.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/general-christopher-g-musa-a-pillar-of-integrity-and-commitment/

The impact of Dan Balki’s voice should not be underestimated. He serves as a reminder of the plurality of opinions in Nigerian politics—a reflection of diverse aspirations and ideologies within the Northern constituency. Yet, while this multiplicity is vital for democracy, it can also hinder progress if left unchecked. Dan Balki’s continued criticisms could lead to a paralysis of governance, where leaders are more preoccupied with countering dissent than implementing crucial reforms. Such a scenario would ultimately serve only to stifle the progress Shettima seeks to achieve.

Counterarguments may posit that Dan Balki’s resistance stems from legitimate grievances that reflect the authentic desires of constituents. To some extent, this claim holds merit. Indeed, Shettima must engage with various stakeholders across the North to solidify his position and capitalize on the victories he has championed. However, it is essential to distinguish constructive criticism from polarized antagonism. True leadership demands an understanding of nuance—a recognition that dissent can serve as both a catalyst for improvement and an obstacle to advancement. For Shettima, navigating this political minefield necessitates a thoughtful approach that embraces dialogue while remaining steadfast in his vision for the North.

A crucial aspect of Shettima’s agenda is his commitment to economic development through infrastructural investment, education, and youth empowerment. These pillars are foundational for fostering a prosperous Northern region capable of competing on both national and global fronts. The initiatives launched during his gubernatorial tenure offer a glimpse into what can be achieved under his leadership. For instance, Shettima’s focus on rebuilding Borno State post-insurgency, including enhancing agricultural outputs and technological advancements, sets a precedent for sustainable growth. Detractors like Dan Balki may diminish these achievements, but the empirical evidence supports Shettima’s vision as one rooted in practicality and necessity.

Indeed, it is crucial to consider the broader implications of Shettima’s role within the national government. As vice president, he occupies a platform that allows for broader advocacy and representation of Northern interests on the national stage. Rather than viewing this as a dilution of regional identity, constituents should recognize the potential for leveraging such a position to attract investments and foster collaborations that align with the North’s unique challenges. Rather than allowing Dan Balki’s divisive rhetoric to distract from this opportunity, it is imperative for Shettima to delineate how his policies can yield tangible benefits for the entire region.

Shettima’s commitment to unity is a cornerstone of his political philosophy. In a region often fractured by tribal, religious, and political divides, embracing a narrative of togetherness becomes increasingly significant. While Dan Balki’s voice echoes sentiments of dissatisfaction, it is vital to counter those sentiments with positive, inclusive narratives that speak to shared goals and aspirations. Campaigns highlighting collaborative projects and inter-ethnic dialogues would demonstrate that Shettima is not merely a politician operating in isolation but rather a leader attuned to the complexities of Northern Nigeria’s social fabric.

A concerted effort towards grassroots mobilization can effectively mitigate the influence of opposition voices. Building a robust network of community engagement initiatives that directly involve citizens in discussions about their needs and expectations can circumvent the narrative of discontent framed by Dan Balki. By amplifying local voices within the decision-making process, Shettima can reinforce a sense of ownership among constituents, thereby reducing the allure of oppositional figures who thrive on creating rifts.

The challenge posed by Dan Balki and other opposing forces underscores the dynamic nature of political discourse in Northern Nigeria. While dissent is a natural element within any democracy, the prioritization of progress over partisanship is essential. As the North charts its path forward, the ability to unite diverse voices behind a collective objective will determine the strength and resilience of the region. Shettima’s position as “Jagoran Arewa” epitomizes an opportunity to rally support around a shared identity, catalyzing a movement towards rejuvenation and prosperity.

The voice of Dan Balki serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in politics, particularly in a region as diverse and historically rich as Northern Nigeria. Nevertheless, beneath the noise of dissent lies an opportunity for growth and transformation. As Vice President Kashim Shettima navigates this political landscape, his focus must remain unwavering—centering on building a stronger, more cohesive North. Through strategic engagement, inclusive dialogue, and an unwavering commitment to the aspirations of the people, Shettima has the potential to rise above opposition and pave the way for a brighter future. In the face of adversity, true leadership is defined not solely by the absence of dissent but by the ability to harness divergent views to forge a path towards unity and progress.

* * James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The Voice of Dan Balki: An Attempt to Derail the Gains of Building a Stronger North with VP Kashim Shettima as “Jagoran Arewa”