Kauran Gwandu: Steering Kebbi Towards A One-Party State- Yahaya Sarki
Kebbi State is witnessing an era of political unity and stability under Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu’s indefatigable leadership.
The governor, who is also the Gwarzon Daular Usmaniyya, has ensured inclusive governance and prudent management of resources and this has significantly weakened the opposition parties, leading to an unprecedented wave of defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
During his ‘Thank -You Visit’ to the 21 Local Governments in the state, Governor Idris, alongside the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, formally welcomed the defectors.
The scale of defections is historic, with key allies of Senator Muhammadu Adamu Aliero, a former governor who currently represents Kebbi Central Senatorial Zone, switching allegiance to the APC. Notable figures among them are Alhaji Abba Aliero, the Senator’s elder brother, and other prominent politicians from across the state who have joined the ruling party.
In Kalgo, Jega, and Aliero LGAs, the APC has been further strengthened by the defection of top PDP leaders and their supporters. Alhaji Umar Namashaya Diggi led hundreds in joining the APC in Kalgo, while in Jega, Alhaji Atiku Bunu, a former Commissioner for Works, defected with thousands of PDP members. Similarly, in Aliero, Alhaji Abubakar Abba Aliero and former Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Muhammadu Magawata Aliero, joined the APC with large followers.
The flurry of defections continued in Suru, Koko-Besse, and Maiyama LGAs, where 3,936 PDP members switched to the APC. Among them was Alhaji Muhammadu Ruwa RK, former PDP Zonal Vice Chairman for Kebbi North, who led 3,500 other members from Dakingari in Suru LGA. In Koko-Besse, 333 key PDP stakeholders were presented to Gov. Idris by Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, while in Maiyama, 103 prominent PDP figures, along with hundreds of supporters, pledged allegiance to the APC.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Hon. AbdulWasiu Andarai affirmed their unwavering support for Governor Idris and his vision for Kebbi State.
In Fakai, Sakaba, and Danko Wasagu LGAs, Gov. Idris also elatedly received hundreds more PDP defectors. Arewa LGA also witnessed the defection of over 4,500 PDP members, including retired Permanent Secretaries, led by Engr. Ahmed Yusuf Tanko and Samaila Dan Iko.
Defectors consistently cite three key reasons for their decision. Firstly, the massive infrastructural development across the state, particularly in the state capital, Birnin Kebbi.
The governor has demonstrated commitment to the progress of the projects that include four-lane roads, township roads, drainages, solar streetlights, modern roundabouts, the ultramodern Secretariat Complex at Gwadangwaji, and a modern motor park.
This has set the current administration in the state apart..
Additionally, the reconstruction of the 87-kilometer Koko/Dabai road at the cost of N64 billion further underscores his dedication to infrastructure development.
Secondly, Gov. Idris’ leadership style embraces inclusivity, offering support and assistance to all Kebbi citizens, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliations.
Thirdly, the opposition’s traditional criticism of underdevelopment has been neutralized by the governor’s substantial infrastructure projects across the state.
Gov. Idris has also strengthened political stability by fostering cordial relationships with past governors of the state and key stakeholders at public and private functions.
His administration has prioritized empowerment, with over 6,000 individuals employed as Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, and Special Assistants. Even senior citizens have been engaged in advisory roles, reflecting his commitment to inclusive governance.
Although the ‘Thank -You Visit’ is ongoing, there are strong indications that more defections will occur as the governor continues his tour of the LGAs.
The Gov. Idris administration is widely seen as a God-given opportunity to rescue Kebbi State from the scourge of underdevelopment, foster unity, and drive socio-economic progress. Some keen observers had even likened his vision to transforming Kebbi into a ‘mini London’.
While constructive criticism is welcome as a cornerstone of democracy, it should be based on facts and geared towards development rather than personal or politically motivated attacks. Blind opposition for cheap popularity or relevance is counterproductive. Opponents should take a step back, rethink, and desist from baseless criticisms that mislead the public.
Therefore, condemning an administration that had achieved so much in a jiffy is a very onerous task. Governor Idris’ leadership stands out as one of the best in Kebbi’s history, and his efforts deserve recognition and support as he continues to lead the state to greater heights-Mr. Yahaya Sarki, who is Governor Nasir Idris’ Special Adviser on Media, writes from Birni Kebbi, Kebbi State
