Opinion
Wadada: Triumph Of People’s Choice and End of Godfatherism
By Muazu Abare
Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, the political elite have continued to dominate the political scene of Nasarawa state, lording it over the citizens on who gets what, when and how, according to their whims and caprices. They did not only stop at holding the ace and dictating the tune of Nasarawa politics but kept planting their surrogates in strategic positions of power, arrogating to themselves the status of demi gods who always determined the political future and destiny of the state.
This was the unfortunate situation Nasarawa state found itself, particularly from 1999 to the build up to 2011 elections when the people of Nasarawa state decided to take their destiny in their hands. The people staged the first political revolution in the history of Nasarawa politics against the elite, which swept away the then incumbent Governor Akwe Doma of blessed memory and ushered in a revolutionary CPC led administration of Umaru Tanko Al-Makura through the popular will of the masses.
History repeated itself in the just concluded presidential and National Assembly elections, starting from Nasarawa west senatorial district championed by Honourable Ahmed Aliyu Wadada to other senatorial districts in the state where some self-acclaimed political god-fathers and their god-sons who were imposed on the people as APC candidates during the primaries were put to shame and lost election in favour of more popular candidates who were forced to quit the party to the opposition SDP.
In Nasarawa west, Wadada (Sarkin Yakin Keffi) and the leader of the new revolutionary movement on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) defeated the imposed APC candidate Arch. Shehu Ahmed Tukur with 96,588 votes against 47,717 votes just as incumbent member, representing Keffi, Karu, Kokona federal constituency Hon. Jonathan Gaza Befwi of SDP, who was denied return ticket, defeated imposed APC candidate Auta Koro, who came last in the election.
In Nasarawa north, incumbent Senator Godiya Akwashiki of the SDP, who lost the APC primaries, defeated his mentor and former godfather, the immediate past executive secretary National Judicial Council, Barrister.Danladi Envuluanza of the APC. In Nasarawa south, incumbent Hon. Abubakar Sarki Dahiru of SDP who also lost APC primaries, defeated Hon. Mohammed Danbala of APC.
The political summersault of those playing god in Nasarawa politics did not come to many, including political analysts, as a surprise, considering the charade that were APC primaries. Authentic delegate lists approved by INEC were either doctored and replaced with surrogates or losers of the primaries but believed to be in the good books of the powers that be and as the party candidates.
This was exacerbated by the complex and highly unpredictable nature of Nasarawa politics. Nasarawa state has always been the hotbed of Nigerian politics; characterised by uncertainties, bumps and obstacles that continue to consume many astute and tested politicians despite their popularity and network.
Suffice that to venture into Nasarawa politics that parades many political juggernauts who have made their marks not only in their various fields of endeavours but also in Nigeria’s socio-economic and political arena is synonymous with one signing his death warrant where only the lion-hearted can dare and remain afloat.
It was amidst this political reality and the need to give the politics of the state a breathe of fresh air by returning power to the people in line with democratic ethos that Hon. Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, a revolutionary, progressive and proud son of Nasarawa state, who radiates confidence and epitomises a new dawn in the collective aspiration of the people to have a better life, decided to damn the consequences and ventured into Nasarawa politics in 2003.
Wadada, who has a defined mission, strong political skills, determination to make a difference in the lives of his people, progressive thoughts and ideas, abandoned his lucrative job in the private sector, specifically Vision Technology, to hit the politics of Nasarawa state like a thunderstorm and without the endorsement of any political godfather successful to defeat the then incumbent Hon. Salisu Raj at the PDP primaries and went ahead to win the election to the House of Representatives in 2003.
His election to the House of Representatives marked a watershed not only in his political career but also in the history of representative democracy in Nasarawa state. It launched him into political fame and has never looked back. He keeps soaring high as one of the most competent, intelligent and performing politicians and law maker Nasarawa has ever produced since 1999.
On his election to the House of Representatives in 2003, Wadada did not only demonstrate capacity, commitment, competency and credibility in the discharge of his legislative responsibilities but also succeeded to offer effective and result-oriented representation, anchored on patriotism, voter education, love for the people and passion for humanity.
He has brought respect, honour and dignity to the state and his people with his vibrancy, eloquence, oratory, brilliant contributions to national debates on the floor of the green chamber. He was also at the forefront of championing the cause of his people, making their voice heard and sponsored many bills and motions which added value to their socio-economic and political life.
Some of his bills include: Federal Capital Territory Development Agency bill 2000, Tabbaco Control Bill 2004, Chartered Institute of Capital Market Registration bill 2005, Investment and Securities Tribunal bill 2006, FCT Satellite Towns Development Commission bill, among many others. He was chairman House Committee on Capital Market for over seven years. His stint as chairman House Committee on Information and National Orientation saw the birth of Freedom of Information Act.
The Sarkin Yakin Keffi also succeeded to re-write the development history of his constituency and brought true dividends of democracy to his people with many life saving interventions and projects especially in the areas of welfare, education, health, water supply, roads, employment opportunities, skill acquisition, women and youths empowerment, among others.
The victory of Wadada and other SDP candidates across the three senatorial districts is akin to a second political revolution in Nasarawa politics. It has been described by many political analysts as a triumph of people’s choice and a sad end of godfatherism, which should serve as a lesson to the political elite in Nasarawa state on how not to take the people for granted.
Abari writes from Lafia, Nasarawa state via muazuabari@mail.com
A pro-democracy group, the Progressive Group for Democracy (PGD), has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and stop local government officials in Lagos State from pursuing unconstitutional third terms in upcoming council elections.
The group alleges that officials in Agbado Oke-Odo and Ikosi Isheri Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) are exploiting legal loopholes to extend their tenures, in violation of Nigeria’s Constitution.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, PGD National Coordinator Aladesanmi Abiodun Salawu described the move as a “clear violation” of constitutional provisions and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
He invoked President Tinubu’s historical opposition to tenure elongation, referencing the president’s fierce resistance to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term bid in the early 2000s.
“As a pro-democracy group, we are reminded of President Tinubu’s fierce opposition to Obasanjo’s third-term agenda. President Tinubu stood firmly against constitutional manipulation then. Where is the president’s voice now?” Salawu asked.
The PGD alleges that the officials in question assumed office following the deaths of elected chairpersons, took oaths of office, and later won full terms in subsequent elections.
“Their current bids for re-election, the group argues, constitute an unconstitutional third term. Salawu cited the Fourth Alteration to the Constitution, signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, which prohibits individuals from seeking a third term after completing a predecessor’s tenure and winning a subsequent election.
“Today, we stand at a very dangerous crossroads. The same anti-democratic forces that our heroes fought against during the June 12 struggle are re-emerging in Lagos State,” Salawu said.
“In Agbado Oke-Odo and Ikosi Isheri LCDAs, we are witnessing a calculated attempt to normalise constitutional violations through the backdoor.”
The group also criticised Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, accusing him of complicity due to his silence on the issue. “As the chief security officer of Lagos State, (Sanwo-Olu)has a constitutional duty to uphold the rule of law. His silence is not just concerning; it is complicity,” Salawu said.
The PGD urged President Tinubu to publicly denounce the third-term bids and called on the Attorney General of the Federation to issue an advisory on term limits for local government administrations.
It also demanded that the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) disqualify candidates seeking unconstitutional terms.
“These individuals in Agbado Oke-Odo and Ikosi Isheri LCDAs must withdraw their candidacy immediately. We are not making a request; we are stating what the constitution already mandates,” Salawu declared.
The group vowed to challenge the alleged violations through legal means, including mobilising civil society, approaching the courts, and organising peaceful protests if necessary.
“The Lagos Society for Good Governance will utilise every legal means available to challenge this dangerous precedent,” Salawu added.
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
History was made again today at the National Assembly Service Commission NASC as the newly appointed as Executive Chairman,Dr Saviour Enyiekere and his Commissioners, was sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential villa to signify the beginning of another five years journey for the new management of the Commission.
Dr Enyiekere who was appointed along with his 12 commissioners representing the six geopolitical zones on 20th, February, 2025, assumed duty on 5th, May, 2025 few months after their appointment after been taking oath office.
He took the oath of office as the sixth National Assembly Service Commission Chairman since the inception of the Commission over four decades ago .
Until his appointment, Enyiekere, an environmental specialist, was the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President and had played a leading and strategic roles in the last 19 months before his elevation.
Soon after he took the oath office along with his commissioners , he assumed duty and was hosted by management and staff of the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and by extension, the National Assembly management led by Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana, the new Clerk to the National Assembly CNA.
Fresh and determined to make a difference,While acknowledging the audience along with his new commissioners , he described today’s occasion as unique with the date falling to 5/5/2025, stating his determination to work with all stakeholders at the NASC and NASS.
He eulogised the outgone leadership of the commission and also paid a glowing trubutes to the deceased ones , acknowledging their unique performance and contributions to the development of the commission in all areas.
Enyiekere who solicited for the cooperation of the management, staff and staff union , promised to prioritize the welfare and well-being of staff of the commission.
The New Executive Chairman , National Assembly Service Commission NASC, Dr Saviour Enyiekere also promised to work harmoniously with the management of the commission , staff, and members of Parliamentary Staff Association PASAN.
Dr Saviour who attracted a conference hall that was filled to capacity bare his mind of carrying all and sundry along in his new administration .
Assertive, young and brilliant to manage the affairs of the commission, he promised to promote and sustain the legacies of management and previous leadership saying their contributions was indelible on the sands of time.
He used the opportunity to appreciate Nigeria’s President and reiterated his commitment along with his commissioners to promote and protect the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, with full support the leadership of the National Assembly under Senator Godswill Akpabio and Rt Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, lauding them for a job well-done and careful selection of the new Chairman and members/commissioners of the commission.
While describing the new responsibility as hectic and challenging, , saying with prayers , God will see us through.
Dr Saviour Enyiekere who promised to keep intact the good records of NASC management and the staff union , so as to ensure harmonious working relationship going forward.
During the handing over ceremony, The Secretary to the Commission, Mr
Lucky U. Ikharo, while presenting the handover documents to the new NASC boss, pledged the total commitment of the NASC Management towards the effective performance of the Commission’s assignment.
Speaking further during the handing and talking over ceremony at the Commission’s Conference Room, the new NASC boss told officials of the National Assembly Service that his leadership would emphasise the welfare of the workers of the Service, harmonious working relationship and productivity.
The new Chairman and his commissioners anxious to make a difference asked all stakeholders to extend their fellowship, admonition and possibly corrections.
Dr Saviour , a grassroot politician , with indepth experience in civil and political exposure, promised to make a difference without further delay .
The entire National Assembly Service Commission NASC bounced back to life after three months since the exit of the former Executive Chairman , National Assembly Service Commission NASC, Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE.
Highlights of the occasion included group photograph, media interview and interactions with the management and staff of both the National Assembly Service Commission NASC, National Assembly leadership led by Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana along with the new commissioners.
With his assumption of duty and his promises, no doubt a new dawn has encapsulated and heralded the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and his leadership.
In a goodwill message, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana, assured the new Commission of the full co-operation of the National Assembly Management towards achieving success. He, however, pleaded with the Commission to carry the National Assembly Management along on key decision-making.
The Honourable Commissioners that reported to duty alongside the Chairman include: Mr. Hanmation Mark Tersoo and Mr. Salisu Umar Agboola-Balogun (North-Central); Alhaji Lawan Maina Mahmud and Aminu Ibrahim Malle (North-East); Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi and Hon Yusuf A. Tabuka (North-West), Chief Festus Ifesinachi Odii (South-East), Mary Samuel Ekpenyong and Mr Patrick Giwa (South-South), Mrs Taiwo Olukemi Oluga and Ipesa-Balogun, Afeez (South-West, with
The Honourable Commissioners that reported to duty alongside the Chairman include: Mr. Hanmation Mark Tersoo and Mr. Salisu Umar Agboola-Balogun (North-Central); Alhaji Lawan Maina Mahmud and Aminu Ibrahim Malle (North-East); Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi and Hon Yusuf A. Tabuka (North-West), Chief Festus Ifesinachi Odii (South-East), Mary Samuel Ekpenyong and Mr Patrick Giwa (South-South), Mrs Taiwo Olukemi Oluga and Ipesa-Balogun, Afeez (South-West), with Festus Ifesinachi Odii not yet resume from the South-East .
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.
By Capt. Caleb Danladi Bako
The global shipping industry is the lifeblood of international trade, with nearly 90% of goods transported by sea. Behind this vast network of commerce are the seafarers professionals whose dedication keeps the world’s economy afloat. Yet, while the focus often falls on operational efficiency, safety, and environmental concerns, an equally critical aspect remains largely in the shadows: the mental health and wellbeing of those who spend months away from home, isolated and often battling invisible struggles.
Having worked both at sea and now within the maritime industry ashore, we have witnessed firsthand the emotional challenges faced by seafarers. Life at sea is often romanticized, but the reality is far more complex. Prolonged isolation, communication barriers, high-pressure environments, and the unpredictability of life at sea contribute to a unique mental health crisis that has, for too long, gone unspoken.
A seafarer’s life revolves around routines, watches, and operations that leave little room for personal downtime. The absence of family support systems limited recreational facilities, and minimal mental health resources onboard amplify feelings of loneliness and helplessness. Recent studies, including those by the Mission to Seafarers and the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN), reveal alarming rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation among crew members. These findings highlight a pressing need for the industry to prioritize mental health with the same seriousness as physical safety.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed and intensified these struggles. Hundreds of thousands of seafarers were stranded aboard ships, unable to disembark for months beyond their contracts. Crew change crises turned ships into floating prisons, exacerbating feelings of abandonment and mental exhaustion.
Though some shipping companies have since introduced mental health initiatives such as access to tele-counselling and mental wellness apps, these measures are still the exception rather than the norm.
Mental health challenges at sea are not merely personal struggles; they can have direct safety implications. Fatigue, anxiety, and depression diminish focus and decision-making ability, increasing the risk of accidents. Thus, protecting seafarers’ wellbeing is not only a moral obligation but a safety imperative for the entire industry.
As industry experts and former seafarers, we believe urgent cultural change is required. Shipping companies must move beyond token programs to embed mental health care into the fabric of maritime operations.
Practical steps include mandatory mental health training, confidential support systems, improved internet connectivity for family contact, regular shore leave, and destigmatization of seeking help.
It is time to bring the untold struggles of seafarers into the light. By acknowledging their mental health needs and committing resources to support them, we honor not only their critical role in global trade but their fundamental humanity.
Capt. Caleb Danladi Bako
Maritime expert and Academic Researcher
E-mail: Caleb.Danladi@plymouth.ac.uk, dancb2k@yahoo.com
Phone: +2348064218253