Shekarau and rest of them
By Nura Ali Babia
It is quite natural for people to express political preferences. The national constitution in the chapter dealing with fundamental rights of individuals categorically mentions “right to opinion.” As such, one may decide to chose certain politicians for reasons best known to him or her.
But such a politician who is interested may not actually be worthy of much praise. Of course, one may as well be disinterested in better and able politicians who deserve our commendation and admiration for what they have achieved in favour of our great nation. Today, if a politician distributes cash everyday most people may call him "a good politician." He may even be described as national here by some praise singers.
In the case of Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, the executive governor of Kano state, quite many of us have expressed several views on him either in negative or positive terms. Well in my own ease, I should feel at home because I am not writing any laudatory remarks about him. Not surprisingly, I will assure that Shekarau may be what he is. All I know is that he is neither a saint nor a prophet but, should I conceal the fact that he is a man of esteemed charisma? Or should I fear telling you that of his better political principles which have already put him on such a lofty pedestal? How would you think of him as a patriotic governor?
For ANPP to win in Kano state governorship, it most therefore present not only credible candidate but a tested one. The question to ask is who will the cap fit with the motley crowd governorship candidates?
Shekarau has distinguished himself as the only governor of Nigeria that set himself targets and objectives that he has since achieved. In fact, one of his greatest achievements are the peaceful atmosphere of the state and societal oriented programmes.
He is a governor full of initiatives in running the state. He delegates responsibilities and demands results as and when due. Today, we can proudly say that in the whole of Nigeria, Kano is among the most functional states and that is a great thank to the governor for his ability to make the state a model in the country.
Interestingly, Governor Shekarau has really improved the standard of living of the less-privileged people in the society. Thus, it is apt to say that he has really impacted positively on the lives of all and sundry in the Kano society as a whole.
Indeed, it is also quite appropriate to note that the Shekarau administration has already done a good justice in the state as it has touched all aspects of human endeavours to include traditional leaders, Ulama, the wealthy individuals, civil servants and corporate bodies among numerous others.
Meanwhile, it is also noteworthy to mention that his plans for the people of the state in areas such as the transport sector and road rehabilitation, investment and infrastructure in addition to the standardization of the educational sector truly stand him out among his peers.
I know Governor Shekarau may have his own weakness like every other human being, but his strength in taking tough decision at a time when every body thought it was an impossible task in turning around the state stands him out as the candidate to beat.
In fact, it is needless to say that the man is very simple. He does not actually believe in class concept. Invite him to an ordinary wedding, you would be amazed of his attendance. Even his childhood friends and schoolmates bear testimony to this. They say the man does not really see himself as a highbrow. He can learn from those who know better than him.
Another memorable thing on the part of the governor is that he is a bridge-builder, charitable, philanthropist and a politician who the people in the state are seriously reaping from his achievements. His vision, credibility and upright nature are attributes that appear most to people. Let us arise and ensure that this humble leader and a well-trained developer becomes the next governor of the state in this year's gubernatorial election. Let us pray for him to break the jinx.
Again, added to the above is the discerning belief that he is a dynamic leader with intimidating credentials and experience to govern. He is an administrator who makes things happen the way they ought to. As a someone with exposure, the door of his office remains open for all and sundry to come for one issue or another. In fact, there is no gainsaying the fact that coming close to him is an undeniable excitement as he is not someone stuck in an old-fashioned way. Surely, one would be amused on his simplicity and frankness. Therefore, what makes him to behave this way is his belief that power and occupying position are temporary while it is only God’s power that is permanent.
In another vein, many people will reason along with me that there are those who always like to blow their own trumpet, but for Shekarau the reverse is the case. This is for simple fact that all what he does is for the benefit of the people he represents - the entire Kano people. This shows that he is a patriotic and an exemplary leader the state is proud of.
To this end, one can not hesitate to get refreshed with the understanding that Shekarau is amicable and intelligent who wastes no time in telling the truth to the people of the state, no matter how bitter it is on cogent issues. This indicates that he is equal to the task. I believe, if voted again he would stand for peace and security; social justice and equity; unity and progress; human rights and freedom; economic growth and sustainable development and discipline and transparency.

Nura Ali Babia wrote in from No. 34, Gyaranya Quarters, Kano City, Kano state.