A Personal Tribute to Ghali Na’abba

 27^th December, 2023

By: Amir Abdulazeez

 

S

ometime in 2006, I walked into the popular Gidan Akida building, the then Kano State headquarters of the Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD), a new party formed by the breakaway PDP faction. I was there to inquire on how lowly placed people like us can actively participate in the development of the party. The State Public Relations Officer told me that I have the option of choosing to belong to any of the four main houses within the party; Muhammad Abubakar Rimi, Malam Musa Gwadabe, Alhaji Gwadabe Satatima and Ghali Umar Na’abba.

 When the PRO heard that I cherished them all, but I wanted to work in the Na’abba camp, he congratulated me for choosing to work under a disciplined, courageous and principled politician. Unknown to him, I had already known Ghali Na;abba some ten years before, may be earlier. Apart from being too young to practically know much about the other three political leaders, I have taken time to follow the stewardship of Ghali Na’abba as the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives for the better part of 1999-2003.

In that same year of 2006, Na’abba declared for the Kano State Governorship. I was genuinely convinced that if elected, he will make Kano one of the most disciplined and organized states in Nigeria. His discipline, confidence and organization have often been misunderstood as arrogance. On this, he has cleared the air on many occasions. From what I know of him, he is a man of few words expressed only when necessary, he has a gentle and reserved personality, the kind of which makes him to never delve into affairs that doesn’t concerns him.

I remember working with like-minds to engage in one of the best intellectual mobilizations any young undergraduates could do to garner support for Na’abba to become Governor at that time. Unfortunately, he withdrew from the governorship race some weeks to the primary elections of the Action Congress (AC), the new party which was the product of a merger between ACD, Bola Tinubu’s Alliance for Democracy (AD) and other groups. Ghali’s withdrawal speech wasn’t detailed, but his arguments were that the process is too manipulated for any honest and disciplined aspirant to withstand. I think that was the last time Ghali contested for any position in his political career. 

Ghali Umar Na’abba was more than a political figure—he was a beacon of integrity, courage, and unwavering dedication to Nigeria. As a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, his legacy resonates far beyond his political tenure. Na’abba's commitment to democratic values and principles shaped the course of Nigeria's political landscape. His leadership during a critical juncture in Nigeria's history marked him as a staunch advocate for transparency and accountability. Beyond politics, he was a symbol of resilience and fearlessness, unafraid to challenge the status quo for the betterment of his nation. His vision for a prosperous, united Nigeria was evident in every action he took and every word he spoke.

Na’abba's tenure as the Speaker of the House of Representatives marked a significant chapter in Nigeria's political history. He was known for his principled stance and his assertive approach in upholding the legislature's independence and separation of powers, particularly in the face of President Olusegun Obasanjo's bullish administration. The Fourth Republic in Nigeria was still in its infancy when Na’abba assumed the role of Speaker. With the country transitioning from years of military rule to a democratic system, the political landscape was rife with challenges. However, Na’abba brought to the forefront a blend of experience, political acumen, and a commitment to legislative oversight. He staunchly believed in the autonomy of the legislative arm of government and its pivotal role in checking the excesses of the executive. This belief set the stage for numerous clashes between the National Assembly, under Na’abba's leadership, and President Obasanjo's administration.

Obasanjo could not have the audacity to unleash his anti-democratic tendencies until Na’abba left the Speakership in 2003. Every Nigerian who witnessed the two tenures of Obasanjo (1999-2007) will testify to this. During his tenure, Na’abba led the House of Representatives with a firm hand, asserting the legislature's independence and challenging executive actions that were deemed against the national interest. One of the notable confrontations arose from the legislature's insistence on its oversight function. Na’abba's House of Representatives was resolute in investigating various issues, including allegations of corruption within the government, regardless of pressure from the executive arm.

It is sad that the many young political followers of today did not have the opportunity to witness and be inspired by the era of great and principled leaders like Ghali Na’abba. They are unlucky and unfortunate to find themselves supporting reckless crooks and shameless greedy people who have turned them to sycophants, social media warriors and other roles that have kept them perpetually stupid. These are some of the reasons that have kept Na’abba on the sidelines since 2007. 

Since 2007, whenever Ghali makes any attempt to reactive his participation in Nigeria’s political landscape, he immediately realizes that there is no space for disciplined people like him. Rather than adjust and follow the trend, he simply retreats and face his private issues. He had always chosen integrity over selfishness. In 2011, his house was burned down in Kano by hooligans because he supported President Jonathan. I have never heard him complain publicly on this treatment meted on him by his own people. As always, he was calm, reserved and simply forged ahead. That was how he permanently minded his business away from the murky, dirty and irresponsible waters of Nigerian partisan politics.

Today, 27^th December, 2023, we have lost Ghali Na’abba, some few months after turning 65 and almost exactly one year part from the death of his mother, another woman of trust, integrity and kindness. May Allah have mercy on them both. Though he may have left this world, his legacy lives on as an inspiration to current and future leaders. Ghali Umar Na’abba's contributions to Nigeria's democratic journey will forever be remembered and cherished, a testament to the enduring power of principle-driven leadership. 

At a point when Kano’s reputation was soared by the Salisu Buhari Toronto certificate scandal, Ghali Naaba, his successor as Speaker worked diligently to give the state a good name nationally and even globally. His active career was short-lived, but he managed to enter the comity of the political all-time greats in the history of Kano State. It now remains to see how the current custodians of the state will work to have his name honoured and legacies preserved.

After surviving numerous blackmails, countless threats and many impeachment attempts as Speaker, President Obasanjo later ganged up with his foot soldiers and garrison commanders in Kano to deny him a return to the National Assembly in 2003. First they failed to stopped him from getting the Kano Municipal PDP ticket and then they later ganged up to work against him and their own party in the General Elections and they succeeded. The fall of Ghali Naabba marked an abrupt end to the era of Legislative Independence and Political courage in Nigeria.

  

Twitter: @AmirAbdulazeez

NYSC: A National Integrator at 50

 25^th May, 2023

By: Amir Abdulazeez

Nigeria is among the leading countries in Africa and the world that have invested so much on national integration over the last 50 years. For the past 10 years, I have been opportune to study different efforts by African, Asian and South American countries towards national unity. For example, Rwanda has achieved a lot with some of its post-genocide reconciliatory schemes. In Nigeria, the NYSC is one policy that has stood the test of time. Although the Nigerian diversity and complexity has proven to be beyond the capacity of the scheme to contain, NYSC had done well by navigating through these years.

This week, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) marked its 50^th anniversary. It was established in 1973 by the government of General Yakubu Gowon as an aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War. Over the years, the NYSC has become a household symbol and integral part of Nigerian national life. Different families and institutions produce young graduates from different parts of the country who come together to serve their fatherland. They are exposed to diverse cultures and traditions, which promotes understanding and national unity. The scheme has also helped to promote socio-economic development in rural areas, where most corps members are deployed to serve.

The achievements of the NYSC over the past 50 years are numerous. It has produced thousands of corps members who have excelled in various fields of endeavor. Many of them have become successful entrepreneurs, leading politicians, respected academics, and high-ranking civil servants. From one batch of corps members per year, it has now become three batches of multiple streams every year. The scheme is believed by many to have contributed significantly to nation-building by promoting the values of unity, patriotism, and selflessness among Nigerian youths.

NYSC is a unique program that sets it apart from other national service programs in the world. One of the unique aspects of the NYSC program is that it requires all Nigerian graduates to participate, regardless of their social status, religion, or ethnicity. This creates a level playing field where everyone is given an opportunity to serve their country and gain experience. Another unique feature of the NYSC program is that it involves a three-week orientation course for participants, which is held in a campsite away from their homes. During the orientation course, participants are exposed to different cultures, beliefs, traditions, and languages of Nigeria. To some extent, this helps to foster tolerance, understanding and a sense of belonging among participants.

NYSC also promotes national development through its activities. Corps members are posted to different parts of Nigeria to work in various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, and infrastructural development. The program helps to address manpower shortages in rural areas, which helps to bridge the gap between urban and rural development. Furthermore, the NYSC program provides an opportunity for Nigerian graduates to acquire new skills, develop leadership qualities, and gain work experience. This helps to boost their employability and increase their chances of becoming successful in their chosen fields.

However, there have been some challenges over the years. Fifty years after, the achievements of NYSC still look more abstract and vague than tangible and substantial; meaning that Nigeria is yet to see the real impact of the scheme on national development. Some critics have argued that it has outlived its usefulness and is no longer necessary. They claim that the country should by now move beyond the era of national integration and that the resources invested in the NYSC could be better utilized in other areas. Some believe that the NYSC has proven unable to achieve its objectives. Infact, it has started compounding some of the very problems it was initially established to address. In addition to this, there are specific challenges troubling the NYSC.

One of the most significant issues facing the NYSC is security. Over the years, corps members have been victims of various forms of violence, including kidnappings, armed robbery, and assaults. Many parts of the country are considered unsafe for corps members, and this has resulted in the loss of lives and property. The frequent plying of dangerous roads by corps members is another issue. Many young and promising Nigerians have been wasted in the course of serving during the scheme.

Another critical issue is corruption. The NYSC is receiving funding and support from the Federal and State governments as well as some corporate organizations. Despite huge sums of money being budgeted for the scheme, there is lack of essential facilities and resources, including adequate accommodation, transportation, and medical services. Some corps members have been forced to sleep in unfurnished classrooms, while others have to travel long distances to access health care services. In addition, corrupt NYSC officials have rubbished the scheme by conniving with corps members who don’t wish to stay and serve. Allegations of favouritism in posting corps members to lucrative areas of primary assignments in exchange for bribes are everywhere.

After several years of existence, many of the orientation camps lack basic amenities such as electricity, water supply, and sanitation facilities. This has resulted in unsanitary conditions that have led to outbreaks of diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, and typhoid. There is a need for the government to invest in upgrading the facilities at the orientation camps and ensure that they meet the required standards.

Lack of community support due to ethnic and religious factors and degradation of the once existing respect and welcoming attitude towards corps members have demoralized many.  I remember during our days as corps member in Osun State, some of our colleagues were treated woefully by people who supposed to protect them. Low morale among corps members have thus become a significant challenge. Many corps members are dissatisfied with their conditions of service, including inadequate allowances, harsh living conditions, and poor treatment by some government officials. This has resulted in a decline in the motivation levels of some corps members, which affects their performance and contribution to national development.

Over the years, there have been different criticisms against the NYSC. Many stakeholders and volunteers have made proposals on how the scheme can be reformed. To be fair to the handlers of the scheme, there have been a lot of innovations and improvements over the last 10 years. However, there is still much left to be done. NYSC's 50^th anniversary presents an opportunity for reflection and celebration.  The Federal Government should sit down with stakeholders and conduct a critical review of the scheme and address its challenges. It should receive all the necessary adjustments and modifications that will make it truly impacting on national development and mechanisms should be introduced to measure and evaluate its performance.

On a general note, for the NYSC and any other scheme to succeed in Nigeria, our leaders must have to change their attitudes. While the scheme is working to integrate the country, our leaders are working to divide it for political advantage. While ordinary Nigerians are asked to serve their country with all their strengths, their leaders are serving themselves and their families with all our wealth. While our corps member are told in camp to be good and responsible citizens, their leaders are openly stealing the wealth meant for the betterment of the future. We cannot succeed this way and in a situation like this, no scheme can achieve national integration, not even the NYSC.

 

Twitter: @AmirAbdulazeez

Forty Years Without Aminu Kano

17^th April, 2023

By: Amir Abdulazeez

I

became familiar with politics before the age of ten. One of the contributing factors was having family members who contested for elective positions during the botched 3^rd republic in the early 1990s. I was close to people contesting positions as low as councillorship and as high as president. Whenever they are having discussions, there was one name that comes up frequently and that name was Malam Aminu Kano. At that time, his death was not even 10 years old.

I knew close to nothing about this frequently discussed man then, but I grew up striving to understand more about him. One thing I noticed is that politicians from all affiliations adore him, pray for him and then treat him like a prophet. Whenever, he is mentioned, people get filled with nostalgia. There is virtually no politician in Kano and by extension the greater part of Northern Nigeria who doesn’t want to be associated with the Aminu Kano brand.

From the over thirty years since I first heard his story, I have been struggling to understand more about him.  The deeper I go, the more I realize how special he was. From 2002, when I became much keen on observing and studying Nigerian politics, up to date, I have been very much convinced that majority of the set of people we call politicians today are mere jokers without any vision compared to the likes of Malam Aminu Kano. Only a very few of them have tried to replicate the kind of discipline and honesty he was known for. During their era, the likes of Aminu Kano were in politics for a reason which was never self-centred.

Though known mainly as a politician, emancipator, reformer and activist, Malam was also a great author, orator, mentor and educationist. He is credited with establishing the modern Islamiyyah system that we are operating today. He is also believed to be one of the shapers of mass education as being practiced today. He had touched society positively in many ways other than politics. That is why, we have diverse institutions named after him; roads, schools, hospitals, airports, etc.

At the peak of his powers, Malam was literally the owner of Kano politics, yet he was humble, kind and generous even to his opponents. His honesty was uncommon even for his era, it was reported that one day, the then Kano State Governor, Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi went to visit him with a gift of an electric generator. Malam enquired whether the governor had provided a generator for all the people of Kano State? That was how he rejected it and Rimi had to leave with it. When Malam died, he didn’t leave any wealth for his family. His only house is now a research center managed by Bayero University, Kano.

Today marks exactly 40 years since the demise of this rare human being. Although his ideology, ethics and teachings had remained significant over these years, the people have never stopped mourning him. Every year, his death looks fresh; Malam will be mourned forever. A champion of progressive politics and justice, a defender of the oppressed and down trodden, a true man of the people and a dedicated ad unique statesman. He is among the greatest Nigerians and role model to millions of citizens and leaders. He will remain a reference point for a very long time or may be forever. His history will be written and rewritten severally.

His death marked the end of ideological politics in Northern Nigeria. Personally, I see him as the greatest Kano citizen of all time, at least in the modern era. He has already established a norm by living a life that any right-thinking person will aspire to lead. It is unfortunate that a society like Kano which enjoyed a solid political foundation laid by the likes of Aminu Kano is now governed by the kind of shameless and self-centred people we see today.

While some political leaders have worked hard and tirelessly to sustain the Aminu Kano legacy, many others have been anti-people, playing the politics of self-interest at the expense of the society. The bitter part is that even political crooks and criminals disguising themselves as leaders are claiming to be identifying with the teachings of Aminu Kano. Today, we have so many pretenders who claim to be disciples of the late sage and only people with historical knowledge can unearth their treachery. It is funny that some people even wear his kind of attire bragging to be like him, while in practice they are corrupt, morally bankrupt and don’t adhere to any of his teachings.

It is unfortunate that many that lived with him did not inherit his modesty, honesty and simplicity. Many of the influential people who remember him today only do so hypocritically. They were never sincere about promoting his virtues. People who claim to have him as their role models are stupendously rich beyond rationality while maintaining a questionable character. If he was alive, he will disown most of these pretenders.

Malam Aminu Kano was not rich, he didn’t hold many government positions, he didn’t force people into building a political empire, he wasn’t greedy; but yet, his name has been written in gold and nothing can erase it for the rest of history. The corrupt leaders of today will die to have his kind of name, but they can’t exercise any of his virtues. They are shamelessly hell bent on garnering wealth, wealth and more wealth as if there is no life after death.

All my life, I have aspired to become myself and carve a niche from my own view of life. I had understood very early in life that every human being is unique in his own right and there is no rigid template that everyone must follow to become great. I have been inspired by many great men though, yet I feel I still enjoy being myself. However, for every rule there is an exception; from what I’ve gathered about Malam Aminu Kano, he is that one person I can give up everything just to be exactly like him.

 

Twitter: @AmirAbdulazeez