The Niger State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election of 2023 may now appear like a forgotten chapter, y...
The Niger State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election of 2023 may now appear like a forgotten chapter, yet it left behind wounds that are far from healed. One of the key figures linked to that episode is the current Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, who emerged second in the contest after being widely touted by some party and government cliques as a favourite.
Despite his subsequent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a minister—an elevation that should ordinarily reposition him beyond any form of political bitterness—some political observers allege that the disappointment of the primaries still lingers around him, largely fuelled by the conduct and utterances of some of his supporters.
As a prominent son of Niger State and a serving federal minister, Malagi is expected to rise above factional sentiments and work collectively with other stakeholders to advance the development of the state. Unfortunately, perceptions persist that he has remained distant at critical moments, especially on issues involving the administration of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. A minister of his standing should not be seen as tactically aloof, offering promises that are rarely fulfilled or engaging only for optics, rather than demonstrating genuine empathy and commitment to the concerns of his home state.
Public perception is further shaped by his apparent preference for spending festive periods outside Niger State, notably in Kaduna, instead of Minna or even his hometown, Malagi. To many, this raises questions about his political goodwill and grassroots connection within the state.
Politics, as they say, is about perception as much as reality. People are watching, calculating, observing, and documenting actions—or inactions—with an eye on the future. Should the minister aspire to elective office again, these impressions will undoubtedly count. Indeed, what goes around comes around.
There is no doubt that Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi enjoys considerable political goodwill in Niger State. However, goodwill must transcend the narrow patronage of an immediate circle. Accessibility, inclusiveness, and equitable engagement with people across the state are essential. Facilitating appointments or opportunities solely for allies and associates is insufficient to sustain long-term relevance and trust.
Adding to the unease are allegations—largely driven by writings and statements from individuals within his circle—that the minister is involved in clandestine meetings aimed at undermining Governor Bago. Although Malagi moved swiftly to suspend an aide, Sa’idu Enagi, who alluded to such meetings, many political pundits have dismissed the action as cosmetic, questioning whether it reflects genuine disapproval or mere damage control.
While his response to the allegation was articulate and reassuring, critics argue that the minister has yet to demonstrate, through concrete actions, a consistent willingness to offer constructive counsel to the governor for the collective good of Niger State.
Nupe values are deeply rooted in brotherhood, peace, unity, respect for leadership and elders, loyalty, and good conduct. These virtues form the pride of the people, and as a prominent Nupe son, Minister Malagi must continue to embody and project them through his actions and engagements.
It is important to remember that party primaries are decided by delegates, not the general electorate, and such outcomes should not be weaponised to deny the state the benefits of a minister’s influence at the federal level.
Equally, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago must also look inward. Leadership thrives on consultation, humility, and respect for diverse opinions. No leader possesses a monopoly of wisdom. The perception of intolerance, witch-hunting, or sidelining perceived opponents from the 2023 primaries only deepens division and weakens governance.
Recent clampdowns, litigations, and detentions of perceived opponents risk diminishing the governor’s popularity. Power without restraint is fleeting; success without humility is hollow. Leadership must be exercised with responsibility, empathy, and self-control.
History offers valuable lessons. The late Governor Abdulkadir Abdullahi Kure, though not an APC member, exemplified statesmanship when he intervened during a protracted Nigeria Labour Congress strike under Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, ensuring peace and stability in Niger State. That spirit of brotherhood and selfless leadership remains instructive.
Ultimately, both Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago must retrace their steps and recommit to unity, cooperation, and mutual respect. Their differences should never outweigh the collective interest of Niger State. As the saying goes, when two elephants fight, the grass suffers—and the masses must not bear the cost of elite discord.
Democracy is a social contract. Political influence is sustained not by force or secrecy, but by genuine connection with the people. Ballot boxes remain patient arbiters of political fate, and Nigerlites are watching closely.
The path forward demands forgiveness, openness, shared ideas, and collaboration. Anything short of this risks pushing both leaders toward political irrelevance sooner than expected.
Yakubu Mustapha Bina is a journalist and public Affair analyst. He Writes from Minna Email: yamustibina@gmail.com
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