Opinion

By Bin Isah

In the last couple of days, social media platforms were inundated with discussions about a banner posted in front of Lekki mosque with this message: “Jesus Christ is not God! He is a prophet and messenger of God!”

It appears this simple and clear message from the Qur’an does not sit well with some Nigerian Christians who see it as an attack on their religion or in other words, a provocation and, a blasphemy.

This misunderstanding is either rooted from the ignorance of other religions, Islam for example, or some people want to shout fire while there’s no even smoke. This reminds me to ask of what use are all those interfaith gatherings between Nigerian Christians and Muslims?

Is it a new thing to Nigerian Christians that Jesus is not God in Islamic religion? Or saying that in a banner in front of a mosque (not church) is what makes it a sin? A provocation? A blasphemy?

The problem is that Muslims have Jesus Christ in their Islamic faith, but a Jesus Christ with a mission as a Messenger of God. Not like the Christians that claim to have no Muhammad SAW in Christianity, which means they have little to say about him.

For this reason, Muslims have a set of beliefs about Jesus Christ as one of the prophets of Allah in whom we believe. And the beliefs are diametrically not in sync with the mainstream concept of Jesus Christ in Christianity. So, whenever we portray Jesus Christ the way he is conceived in Islam, it would be a problem to them. It’s offensive, and nobody actually intended to offend them.

The thing is that, the Muslim community have an obligation to convey the message of Islam, and to declare its proclamations with no fear or compromise. Its plain truth! Our religion requires us to declare Jesus as a prophet and messenger of God, not as a God himself. Jesus is not God is a message of Islam to the world. In no time or place, Muslims are asked to state otherwise.

The trouble is that, Christians will never settle with the Islamic concept of Jesus Christ. In the same vein, however, Muslims seem to tolerate Christians that declare Jesus as God, because it’s offensive to Islam and Muslims to declare Jesus as such, because it’s part and parcel of Islamic core beliefs to believe and declare that Jesus is not God, but a prophet sent by God SWT.

In fact, the Christians write “JESUS IS LORD” with total freedom on banners at different places of worships and even on the main roads on billboards, yet Muslims cannot state their own belief in Jesus Christ in like manner. In fact, it’s offensive to Muslims and Islam, but we accept this is what Christians believe. So, if according to Christian faith, Christians can write Jesus is God, then Muslims should have the right to write Jesus is not God, according to their faith.

I blame the Nigerian clergy people for not properly teaching their congregants knowledge of other religions and their scriptures. It is a clear mischief which leads to interreligious conflicts.

Indeed, Jesus is not God but a revered prophet and great servant of God.

By Sanusi Maikudi 

In her recent remarks, Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK Conservative Party, reportedly dismissed associations with Nigeria beyond her Yoruba heritage. She distanced herself from Northern Nigeria and associated it narrowly with Islamism. These comments, replete with historical ignorance and political misjudgement, reflect poorly on her understanding of the intertwined histories of Britain and Nigeria and, by extension, her role as a leader in one of the world’s oldest democracies.

It is troubling that Badenoch, a figure who aspires to statesmanship, would exhibit such a parochial view of her heritage and the complex relationship between the United Kingdom and Northern Nigeria. Her remarks not only betray an ignorance of British colonial history but also reflect a failure to grasp the significance of global citizenship—an essential quality for anyone seeking to lead in a post-imperial world.

Misunderstanding History

Badenoch’s attempt to disassociate herself from Northern Nigeria exposes a glaring lack of awareness about the region’s rich and diverse history. Long before colonialism, Northern Nigeria boasted a sophisticated socio-political structure exemplified by the Sokoto Caliphate and other emirates. These entities maintained written records, produced scholarly works in Arabic, and upheld organised governance systems.

British colonial explorers and missionaries documented these structures extensively. Figures like Hugh Clapperton, Mungo Park, and Frederick Lugard not only travelled through Northern Nigeria but also admired its governance systems. The British colonial administration, recognising the efficacy of Northern Nigeria’s traditional leadership, adopted the system of indirect rule to govern the region. This is a testament to the historical and administrative depth of the region—a depth Badenoch seems to have overlooked.

Furthermore, the Christian missionaries who ventured into Northern Nigeria risked their lives not to trivialise or divide but to understand and engage with its people. Their contributions are preserved in archives that form part of Britain’s collective memory. Denying or dismissing this history is ignorant and disrespectful to the legacy of British-Nigerian relations.

A Failure of Diplomacy

As a leader in a global power, Badenoch is expected to demonstrate diplomatic acumen and cultural sensitivity. Her dismissive remarks, however, suggest a narrow worldview that is unbecoming of someone in her position. Britain’s legacy as the patron of the Commonwealth—a union of diverse nations shaped by shared history—requires its leaders to embody inclusivity and understanding.

Badenoch undermines her credibility by distancing herself from Northern Nigeria in such a derogatory manner. Her comments seem less like the musings of a seasoned statesperson and more like pandering to fringe nationalist sentiments. Was she addressing British society, which has long recognised and documented the importance of Northern Nigeria? Or was she appealing to a clandestine audience of Yoruba nationalist agitators? Either way, her remarks reveal a political novice more concerned with short-term rhetoric than long-term statesmanship.

The Irony of Her Position

Badenoch’s position as a British politician of Nigerian descent is itself a product of the historical forces she now dismisses. Like many others from former colonies, her parents benefited from the opportunities created by Britain’s imperial legacy. She was born in London, a city shaped by centuries of global migration and colonial history. Ironically, the very system she now seeks to lead is a product of the multiculturalism and interconnectedness she seems to reject.

It is also worth noting that Badenoch’s rise to prominence coincides with the UK’s struggles with political leadership. The Conservative Party’s internal crises have eroded its cadre of charismatic leaders, paving the way for figures like Badenoch. Yet her divisive rhetoric and lack of historical understanding alienate mature voters and diminish her standing as a potential statesperson.

Populism and the Far-Right Trap

While Badenoch may be tempted to align herself with the growing populist and far-right ideologies in Europe, she is ultimately a victim of these movements, not a beneficiary. The same far-right ideologies that demonise immigrants and minorities would not spare someone of her background. Her attempts to position herself as “more Catholic than the Pope” by demonising others only highlight her vulnerability within such spaces.

Conclusion

Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch’s recent remarks reveal a troubling ignorance of British and Nigerian history. Her attempt to distance herself from Northern Nigeria not only disrespects the region’s rich heritage but also undermines her credibility as a leader in a globalised world. Her rhetoric, steeped in parochialism and divisiveness, starkly contrasts the qualities of diplomacy, wisdom, and inclusivity required of a true statesperson.

Rather than deriding others, Badenoch would reflect on the interconnected histories of the nations she represents and aspire to a leadership style that unites rather than divides. As history has shown, those who fail to learn from the past are often relegated to its margins. Let her words serve as a reminder of the perils of ignorance and the importance of informed leadership in a complex, interconnected world.

Sanusi Maikudi wrote from the Network for Justice, Kaduna, Nigeria, via sanusihmaikudi@yahoo.com.

By Oluseyi Sodiya

The tech startup landscape is evolving, and with it, a new paradigm known as product-led growth (PLG) is taking centre stage. Unlike traditional strategies that rely heavily on sales and marketing to drive growth, PLG focuses on the product itself as the primary driver of customer acquisition, expansion, and retention. This approach is not only reshaping how startups grow but also revolutionizing the tech industry as a whole.

Understanding Product-Led Growth

Product-led growth is a strategy where the product itself is the main vehicle for acquiring and retaining customers. In a PLG model, the product is designed to deliver immediate value, encouraging users to try, adopt, and champion it without the need for aggressive sales tactics. This approach leverages user experiences and organic growth channels such as word-of-mouth and network effects, making it a cost-effective and scalable growth strategy.

Empowering users

One of the core principles of PLG is empowering users. By offering a seamless and intuitive user experience, startups can enable users to derive value from the product independently. This empowerment not only enhances user satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and advocacy. When users are delighted by a product, they are more likely to share their positive experiences with others, driving organic growth.

Data-driven insights

A product-led approach relies heavily on data-driven insights to continually improve the product and user experience. Startups can leverage analytics to understand how users interact with their product, identify pain points, and make informed decisions about feature development and enhancements. This iterative process ensures that the product remains relevant and valuable to users, driving sustained growth.

Reducing customer acquisition costs

Traditional customer acquisition strategies often involves significant marketing and sales expenses. In contrast, PLG can reduce customer acquisition costs by leveraging the product itself to attract and convert users. Free trials, freemium models, and in-app onboarding are effective tactics that allow users to experience the product’s value firsthand before making a purchasing decision. This not only lowers the barrier to entry but also accelerates the adoption process.

Building viral loops

PLG leverages the power of viral loops to drive exponential growth. Viral loops occur when users encourage others to adopt the product, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of user acquisition. Features such as referral programs, social sharing options, and collaborative functionalities can amplify the reach of the product and increase its user base organically. This network effect is a powerful growth engine that can propel startups to new heights.

PLG success

Several tech startups have successfully implemented PLG strategies to achieve remarkable growth. Companies like Slack, Dropbox, and Zoom have harnessed the power of their products to build massive user bases with minimal reliance on traditional marketing. Slack’s user-friendly interface and seamless integrations made it a favourite among teams, leading to widespread adoption through word-of-mouth. Similarly, Dropbox’s freemium model allowed users to experience the benefits of cloud storage before upgrading to premium plans.

Challenges and considerations

While PLG offers numerous advantages, it also presents challenges. Startups must ensure that their product delivers real value and can stand on its own without heavy sales intervention. This requires a deep understanding of user needs and continuous investment in product development. Additionally, measuring the success of PLG initiatives can be complex, as it involves tracking user behavior and engagement metrics.

Finally, the rise of product-led growth marks a new era for tech startups, offering a scalable and cost-effective approach to growth. By focusing on delivering exceptional user experiences and leveraging data-driven insights, startups can build products that not only attract and retain users but also drive organic growth through advocacy and network effects. As the tech industry continues to evolve, PLG is set to become a cornerstone strategy for startups looking to make a lasting impact. Embracing this approach can help startups navigate the competitive landscape and achieve sustainable success in the digital age.

By Rabiu Sirajo Toro

How hackers manage to compromise people’s accounts, particularly on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and especially WhatsApp, and often send messages to the contacts of the account owner, requesting money for account details that do not match the owner’s name is baffling.

They frequently claim that network glitches or limits have been exceeded to justify their requests.

This situation has occurred multiple times, yet people seem to overlook it. It’s essential to consider the different account details compared to the owner’s, as well as the context in which the message is written.

Some messages might be the first communication between two individuals, leading the recipient to act without hesitation. Instead of questioning or calling the person for confirmation, they may decide to send money immediately.

We must remain vigilant regarding anything related to money and property, as scammers are becoming more prevalent.

Many people are looking for quick and questionable wealth by any means possible.The first time I received such a message from someone of high status, I promptly contacted the owner of the phone number and discovered that I was the first person to inform her about the incident.

Whenever you receive a message that seems abnormal in your daily chats, especially one that involves a request for money, it is crucial to call that person for confirmation if you can’t ignore it.

For added security, anyone you are involved in business with or who might send you money should always confirm transactions first, preferably through phone calls rather than platforms alone or physical meetings are preferable for any monetary exchange.

We must make an effort to remember these incidents and protect ourselves from scammers.

Rabiu Sirajo wrote in from Toro Local Government Area in Bauchi State.

By Jamilu Uba Adamu,Kano

The 2024 Nigeria National League’s kickoff has sent waves of excitement throughout the country, and Kano State is no exception. The football match between Barau Football Club and Plateau State’s Mighty Jets at the newly refurbished Danbatta Stadium marked a significant milestone in Kano’s football history. This development is a shining example of Senator Barau Jibrin’s commitment to sports development in the Kano North Senatorial district.

As a sports enthusiast, I find it heartwarming to witness the remarkable impact of Senator Barau Jibrin’s dedication to sports development in Kano State. The senator representing Kano North has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents, with a particular focus on sports.

The refurbishment of the Danbatta Stadium is a shining testament to Senator Jibrin’s visionary leadership. This world-class facility promotes sports and contributes significantly to the community’s economic growth and social cohesion. The stadium has the potential to unite not only people across Kano North but the entire Kano State, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Senator Jibrin’s recognition of the importance of sports development in rural areas is equally commendable. He understands that structured sporting events can profoundly impact these communities, providing a platform for young talents to emerge and promoting job creation, socialization, unification, and economic emancipation. This is a critical aspect of his leadership, as it acknowledges the often-overlooked potential of rural areas to contribute to the state’s sports development.

As Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin’s commitment to sports development is a shining example for other politicians to follow. His efforts have marked a significant milestone in Kano’s football history, 

In conclusion, Senator Barau Jibrin’s unwavering commitment to sports development in Kano State is a beacon of hope for the future of sports in Kano. His visionary leadership and dedication to the welfare of his constituents make him an exemplary politician. 

Adamu, a Kano-based freelance sports writer, can be reached via jameelubaadamu@yahoo.com.

By Haroon Aremu

As a concerned young Nigerian, it’s disheartening to witness lawmakers and esteemed legal practitioners grapple with fundamental constitutional principles—especially regarding the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

It is astonishing that those tasked with crafting laws and interpreting them could exhibit such a glaring misunderstanding of the legal framework that governs their actions. The recent attempts by the Nigerian Senate to remove Mr. Danladi Umar, Chairman of the CCT, serves as a case in point.

In their misguided effort, the Senate invoked Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution, mistakenly applying it to the CCT. This section is pertinent to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and other executive bodies, but it has no bearing on the CCT, which operates under a different constitutional framework. As noted by PRNigeria’s fact-checking team, the remedial actions regarding judicial bodies such as the CCT require broader legislative consensus than the Senate alone can muster – specifically, a two-thirds majority from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, a detail curiously overlooked by the lawmakers.

Further complicating matters, the Senate suggested Mr. Abdullahi Usman Bello as Umar’s potential successor. However, it must be emphasized that Mr. Bello was appointed to lead the CCB, not the CCT. Moreover, constitutional stipulations require that the CCT Chairman possess qualifications akin to those of a judge of a superior court—qualifications which Mr. Bello notably lacks. This misstep reflects either a profound ignorance or a blatant disregard for the constitution.

It’s also alarming to observe the Senators conflating the roles of the CCB and the CCT, erroneously linking Umar’s situation to that of Bello. Their claims regarding the 9th Assembly’s investigations into Umar also deserve scrutiny, especially given that they appear to stem from a petition filed by a security guard concerning an unrelated incident —ironically, even after an anti-corruption agency had already cleared him of any wrongdoing.

Adding a layer of complexity to the situation is the media’s role in disseminating information. While there was widespread coverage of the Senate’s resolutions, many outlets failed to substantiate or fact-check their claims against the Constitution. This lapse in journalistic vigilance contributes to the propagation of misinformation, thereby undermining public trust in our governance systems.

The situation becomes even more troubling when senior lawmakers defend their misguided actions. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly delineates that the appointment of the CCT Chairman and its members must follow the National Judicial Council’s recommendations, which should be informed by the Federal Judicial Service Commission. Thus, any motion to remove the CCT Chairman necessitates formal attention from both legislative chambers, not simply the Senate.

To complicate an already delicate situation, the newly elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe (SAN), boldly claimed that the Senate adhered to constitutional protocols. Such statements from a figurehead of the legal profession raise questions about the level of legal literacy within our ranks.

Even more alarming was the endorsement from renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. By supporting the Senate’s push for Umar’s removal, Falana and others reveal a troubling trend where senior legal practitioners sidestep constitutional requirements, jeopardizing the sanctity of Nigeria’s judicial and legislative systems.

In light of these developments, distinguished legal scholars such as
Professor Mamman Lawan Yusufari, a former Dean of the Faculty of Law at Bayero University Kano (BUK), Professor Yemi Akinseye-George, the Executive Director of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies, and Dr. Wahab Shittu have denounced the government’s handling of the CCT issue. They described these actions as blatant violations of constitutional mandates, calling on the Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to provide guidance to President Bola Tinubu on adhering to constitutional pathways for such significant personnel decisions.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria Yunus AbdulSalam further criticized the misinterpretation of the Constitution, labeling it alarming and indicative of a dangerous lack of diligence within both the executive and legislative branches. He remarked, “Their unconstitutional and desperate attempt to remove the CCT Chairman undermines the spirit of the Constitution and poses a serious threat to democratic integrity.”

It takes a whole week before the Senate admitted and corrected the procedural error by invoking the correct constitutional provisions, including Paragraph 17(3) of the Fifth Schedule and Section 22(3) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act.

This entire debacle serves as a clarion call for lawmakers to strictly observe constitutional provisions. Legal protocols should never be compromised for political convenience. Moreover, the media must enhance its accountability in fact-checking claims that significantly influence national governance.

The independence of the judiciary and the integrity of the legislative process are cornerstones of Nigeria’s democracy; they must be protected from missteps and oversights, both from lawmakers and in media coverage. This incident reinforces that constitutional provisions are not mere guidelines; they are the foundation of a functioning democracy. The Senate’s actions reflect a troubling ignorance that could jeopardize the integrity of Nigeria’s legal system. As a nation, we must recommit ourselves to upholding the rule of law and rigorously adhering to constitutional procedures to safeguard judicial independence and the health of our democratic framework.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a co-author of ‘Youth Service for National Stability: A Corpers’ Chronicle.’ He can be reached at exponentumera@gmail.com

By Salim Yunusa

The formal inscription of the annual Kano Durbar by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a welcome development to not just Kano but Nigeria as a whole. The nomination, adopted on the 6th of December, 2024, in Paraguay, at the 19th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, makes it the 8th element to be inscribed from Nigeria. UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that promotes peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

According to many sources, the Kano durbar is the world’s largest procession of colourful horses. It has evolved with the history, religion, culture, and tradition of the Kano people over time. It is usually done to mark the Islamic holidays of Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Adha, among other special celebrations. While other similar durbars are carried across almost all Northern Nigerian cities such as Zaria, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Hadejia, Maiduguri and Sokoto, the Kano durbar stands out due to the sheer number of participants, tourists, spectators and days of celebrations.

This global recognition is a significant milestone, celebrating one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cultural festivals. Renowned for its majestic horse parades, traditional regalia, and music, the Kano Durbar reflects Northern Nigeria’s cultural pride and rich heritage. While the jubilations over this achievement are justified, it is essential to explore the opportunities and responsibilities that come with the UNESCO inscription.

 Beyond the celebrations, stakeholders must now prioritise preservation, promotion, and leveraging this global acknowledgement to foster tourism, break down stereotypes, and drive cultural and economic development in Kano and Northern Nigeria as a whole.

Kano—and Northern Nigeria as a whole—is a goldmine of culture and tradition preserved for ages, although these are currently under threat of extinction. The Dye Pits of Kofar Mata, founded in 1498 and spanning five centuries, are at risk of becoming extinct due to disrepair and unsustainable practices in recent times. The walled city of Kano is gradually disappearing to give way to commercial structures along the busy roads of Kano. There is a growing threat of climate change eroding sites like Dala Hills, Gidan Makama and others due to neglect. Sustainable protection and preservation of sites like this must be done for future generations.

This particular UNESCO inscription underscores the need to preserve the Kano Durbar for future generations through strategic documentation and archiving of the festival’s history, rites, and performances. High-quality visual content and written materials can help maintain its essence while creating accessible records for global audiences. This will effectively engage the youth, which is vital to ensure the tradition remains dynamic.

In addition, effective and efficient collaboration between the Kano Emirate council, non-governmental organisations (such as MACOBA, UNESCO, Global Shapers, etc.) and government agencies (NICO, Ministry of Arts and Culture, Tourism Development, etc.) is necessary to provide funding, technical support, and regulations that safeguard the festival’s cultural integrity.

In a state like Kano, boasting the highest population in the country and being the most populous in Northern Nigeria, the Kano Durbar has the potential to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural tourism, becoming a blueprint for other durbars across the region. To achieve this, a well-coordinated tourism strategy is essential. This could include partnering with airlines, hotels, and tour operators to create attractive travel packages for domestic and international tourists. Marketing campaigns highlighting the Durbar as a unique travel experience should be launched across social media platforms and international media outlets. Collaborations with influencers and travel bloggers can also amplify its appeal.

Furthermore, enhancing the visitor experience is key. Infrastructure around festival venues should be improved, with better roads, accommodations, and festival-specific amenities. Creating dedicated viewing platforms and cultural villages can also enrich the experience for attendees, making the Durbar more accessible and enjoyable.

Beyond cultural pride, the inscription opens doors for economic development. Investments in Durbar-themed merchandise, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts can generate revenue for local communities. E-commerce platforms can facilitate the sale of these items to a global audience.

Additionally, recognising the festival as an international heritage can attract global partnerships and funding for sustainable development initiatives in the region. Furthermore, technology offers endless possibilities to promote the Kano Durbar. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences can bring the Durbar to audiences unable to attend physically. Comprehensive online platforms can offer ticket sales, merchandise, and interactive content, ensuring year-round engagement with the festival. These digital initiatives can transform the Durbar from a localised event into a global cultural phenomenon.

Finally, the festival could serve as a hub for cultural exchange, inviting participants from other regions and countries to share their traditions and learn about the Durbar, fostering mutual respect and understanding. It could be so much more, with proper organisation and intention by the stakeholders involved.

The UNESCO inscription of the Kano Durbar is a momentous achievement that places the festival on the global stage. However, this recognition comes with responsibilities. By preserving its legacy, harnessing its tourism potential, and leveraging technology and cultural exchange, stakeholders can transform the Durbar into a beacon of Nigeria’s cultural excellence. Beyond the jubilations lies an opportunity to turn this acknowledgement into a catalyst for cultural pride, unity, and economic development. The time to act is now.

Salim Yunusa writes from Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

 By Suleiman Usman Yusuf 

As we mark one month since the sham local government elections conducted in Kaduna State, it is imperative to broaden our discourse beyond the immediate events and delve into the systemic issues that have led to electoral malpractices, voter apathy, and the overall degradation of Nigeria’s electoral system. 

Having been a founder and the pioneer National Chairman of the Youth Party (YP) as a registered political party in Nigeria, I have gained invaluable insights into the root causes of these electoral challenges. While these issues are multifaceted, I will focus on several key aspects that are critical to understanding and addressing the problem, as follows: 

1. NEGLECT OF INTERNAL PARTY ELECTIONS: One significant factor contributing to the electoral malaise is the Nigerian populace’s tendency to prioritise general elections over internal party elections. The credibility, skills, and knowledge of party officials heavily influence the quality of candidates emerging from primary elections. When citizens neglect the election of these officials, they unintentionally allow unpatriotic and incompetent individuals to manage party affairs at all levels – wards, local governments, states, and nationally. 

For instance, in many local government elections, candidates are often selected based on their connections or financial support rather than their qualifications or commitment to public service. This negligence ensures that capable and well-meaning Nigerians remain sidelined, relying on flawed party structures to secure candidacy. 

 2. LACK OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: The absence of internal democracy within political parties is another root cause of electoral failure. Ideally, political parties should transcend individual candidates, ensuring their structures promote democratic values and accountability. Unfortunately, many candidates, especially those with amassed wealth or political power, often overshadow their parties, undermining their foundational principles. Party officials, rather than being recruited based on merit, usually come from the ranks of politicians, leading to a cycle of dependency and diminished accountability. The failure to enforce disciplinary measures further erodes the integrity of party operations, allowing influential individuals to manipulate party dynamics for personal gain. 

Take, for example, the recent primaries of major political parties in Nigeria. Decisions are frequently made by a small group of party elites, often sidelining grassroots members and leading to the emergence of candidates who do not reflect the electorate’s will. Parties lack the frameworks to generate independent funding and operate effectively, allowing influential individuals to manipulate party dynamics for personal gain. 

 3. BRAIN DRAIN FROM POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT: Our nation’s most talented individuals frequently gravitate toward secure positions in the public or private sectors, leaving political engagement to those who may not have the nation’s best interests at heart. For example, many young professionals, including engineers, doctors, and entrepreneurs, seek opportunities abroad or in stable private sectors rather than entering politics, where they perceive a lack of integrity and opportunity for meaningful change. This trend undermines the potential for transformative leadership, as the voices that could drive innovation and reform in governance are absent from the political arena. The resulting leadership vacuum allows for the perpetuation of mediocrity and stagnation in our political landscape. 

 4. INEFFECTIVE ROLE OF OPPOSITION PARTIES: Another critical issue contributing to electoral malaise in Nigeria is the failure of opposition parties to effectively engage with the government in power. In a healthy democracy, opposition parties are expected to check on the ruling party, advocating for the populace’s interests and holding the government accountable for its actions. Their role is not merely to oppose for opposition’s sake but to advance the causes of the people, ensuring that governance is responsive and transparent. For instance, during significant policy debates, such as those regarding the national budget or security measures, opposition parties often resort to sensational accusations rather than providing substantive alternatives or critiques. 

 Unfortunately, many opposition parties in Nigeria have engaged in trivial disputes rather than focusing on substantial, issue-based discussions. They often lack coherent alternative policies or robust arguments that challenge the government’s decisions. This absence of constructive criticism diminishes the quality of political discourse and leaves citizens without viable options or clear pathways for reform. By failing to present well-researched alternatives to government policies, opposition parties contribute to a stagnant political environment where the ruling party faces little pressure to improve or innovate in its governance. 

 Additionally, the lack of strong opposition undermines public confidence in the democratic process, as citizens may feel their concerns are not adequately represented or addressed. Opposition parties need to rise to their responsibilities and engage in serious debates about policies and procedures that affect Nigerians’ lives. By doing so, they can promote a more dynamic political landscape that encourages accountability and responsiveness from the government. 

 5. LACK OF INVESTMENT IN KNOWLEDGE AND RESEARCH: Most political parties in Nigeria do not prioritise investing in knowledge and research, which are crucial for informed decision-making and policy development. The absence of dedicated policy and research units within parties means that they often operate in a vacuum, disconnected from society’s pressing issues. This gap results in poorly formulated policies that fail to address the needs of citizens or adapt to changing circumstances. For example, without adequate research, parties may propose initiatives that do not resonate with the challenges faced by their constituents, leading to ineffective governance and further disenchantment with the political process. 

 Based on the foregoing, I hereby advance the following recommendations for reform: 

 1. PROMOTION OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: Political parties must adopt transparent processes for electing officials and candidates. Implementing democratic practices within party structures will empower grassroots participation and ensure that the best candidates emerge, promoting a culture of accountability and responsibility. 

 2. ENCOURAGING YOUTH PARTICIPATION: Engaging the youth in the political process is essential for the future of Nigeria. Programs that educate young people about the importance of political involvement and the electoral process can cultivate a new generation of leaders committed to change. Initiatives such as mentorship programs and civic education can inspire active participation among young Nigerians. 

 3. ESTABLISHING INDEPENDENT MECHANISMS: Political parties should explore diverse funding sources beyond wealthy individuals to enhance their autonomy and operational capacity. These may include membership dues, grants, and partnerships with civil society organisations. By diversifying funding streams, parties can operate more independently and reduce the influence of money in politics. 

 4. STRENGTHENING VOTER EDUCATION: Comprehensive voter education campaigns are vital to combat apathy and encourage active participation in all electoral processes, including internal party elections. Educating citizens about their rights and the importance of their votes can empower them to demand accountability from their elected officials. 

 5. ENHANCING THE ROLE OF OPPOSITION PARTIES: Opposition parties must fulfil their critical role in engaging with the government and providing constructive criticism. They should focus on presenting well-researched alternative policies and robust arguments that address pressing issues affecting the populace. By promoting a culture of accountability and transparency, opposition parties can help ensure that governance remains responsive to citizens’ needs. These parties must rise above trivial disputes and engage in meaningful dialogue that reflects the interests of the people they represent. 

In conclusion, the recent elections in Kaduna State serve as a vivid reminder of the vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s electoral system. To safeguard democracy and promote effective governance, we must confront these root causes head-on, fostering an environment where transparency, accountability, and active participation thrive. 

It is time for Nigerians to reclaim their political landscape, ensuring that those who seek to represent them do so with integrity and a genuine commitment to the public good. By addressing these systemic issues, we can pave the way for a more robust democratic process that genuinely reflects the will and aspirations of the Nigerian people. 

God Bless Nigeria! 

Suleiman writes from Kaduna State, Nigeria, and can be reached via suleimanusmanbac@gmail.com.

By Muhsin Ibrahim – Cologne, Germany

Let me say it aloud today: the Kano Hisbah Board’s decision to stop arresting people is quite disturbing.

Of course, I am one of those brave few commentators who criticised their method of arresting suspects some time ago, and I still stand by that view and criticism.

From Berlin to Baltimore, London to Lahore, Tel Aviv to Taipei, and Moscow to Muscat, security operatives sometimes manhandle individuals when arresting them. We are all humans!

If all arrests are halted, people will have free rein in Kano. Soon after Hisbah’s announcement, some socialites from other states and countries began relocating to Kano. They act freely and upload their videos on social media.

Kano is cosmopolitan but has unique norms, values, cultures, and religion that deserve respect. We cannot stop globalisation and cultural diffusion, but we should be concerned when our values are undermined.

Globally, countries still protect their “values” in one way or another. “Muhammad” can be – and is – the most popular baby name in England and Wales, but that doesn’t mean Muslims can, for example, legally practice polygyny. This is just but one example.

Kano State Government should reconsider how it manages Hisbah. You either have a functioning Hisbah or no Hisbah at all.

Hisbah should not be a toothless dog. Several clerics are already preaching (wa’azi, nasiha, etc.). It’s not Hisbah’s role to do just that; they need some power to use “force” at a certain level.

May we be guided, amin.

Muhsin Ibrahim is a Kano-born lecturer at the University of Cologne, Germany. He can be reached via muhsin2008@gmail.com.

By Abubakar Hassan Muhammad BUK 

Kano State politics has been a subject of interest in Nigeria, especially since the Supreme Court judgment restored Abba Kabir Yusuf as the governor of Kano State. Yusuf, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), had his election initially nullified by lower courts, but the Supreme Court unanimously upheld his victory in the March 2023 election.

The State has a rich history of leadership, dating back to the Kingdom of Kano, which existed from 1000 AD to 1349. The state’s capital and largest city, Kano, is Nigeria’s second most populous city after Lagos. The incumbent governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was sworn in on 29 May 2023.

Kano State faces several challenges, including attacks by Islamist terrorist groups, inter-religious violence, and extreme poverty. The state operates under Sharia law within the legal framework of the Nigerian constitution. The Supreme Court’s decision to restore Yusuf as governor has received mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some praising the judgement and others expressing concerns.

The State has a diverse economy with a strong focus on industry, agriculture, and Islamic banking. The state is home to several large markets, including Kurmi Market and Kantin Kwari Market, which specialise in textiles and grains. Agriculture is also a significant sector, with crops such as millet, cowpeas, and sorghum being cultivated for local consumption.

Kano State politics are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the state’s rich history and cultural diversity. Under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, the state faces significant challenges and opportunities for growth and development. But he has been trying his best to overcome these challenges.

Abubakar Hassan Muhammad wrote via abubakarsadik2023@gmail.com.