By: Adamu Muhd Usman
“Fairness does not mean everyone gets the same. Fairness means everyone gets what they need to succeed.”
Recently, the media space has been flooded with commentaries, appraisals, and criticisms following a short video clip in which Governor Malam Umar Namadi (FCA), popularly known as Dan Modi, reacted to the actions and attitudes of Hon. Usman Ibrahim Kamfani Auyo, the member representing Hadejia/Auyo/Kafin-Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State in the National Assembly.
Though I am neither Governor Dan Modi’s spokesman nor a member of his cabinet, and not even a card-carrying member of the APC, as I belong to the PDP school of Sule Lamido, I still have the constitutional right, as a citizen of Jigawa State, to express my opinion freely on this issue.
Some people, especially within Jigawa State, condemned the governor’s statement when he said: “As a governor who has served for only three years, I have done better in Auyo than Hon. Kamfani Auyo did in his twelve years in the National Assembly.”
However, there is no law prohibiting a governor from making such a statement. He is not the first governor in Nigeria to have disagreements or political conflicts with members of the National Assembly from his state.
In the past, there have even been attempts by governors to recall lawmakers from their constituencies. Jigawa State is not an exception.
Dan Modi’s statements, to me, reflected humility, simplicity, patience, understanding, and political maturity.
Some observers also criticized Governor Namadi for suspending some of his aides from Auyo Local Government and some APC politicians in Jigawa State, including Hon. Usman himself, after the political rally held across Hadejia, Auyo, and Kafin-Hausa towns.
Auyo happens to be Hon. Kamfani’s hometown, while Kafin-Hausa is regarded as the governor’s political stronghold. During the tour, Hon. Kamfani allegedly insulted, castigated, and openly campaigned against the governor’s second-term ambition in a manner that nearly caused confusion, party disunity, and political tension.
To an ordinary observer like me, I do not see anything entirely wrong with the disciplinary measures taken, especially where party unity and the integrity of the governor’s office are perceived to have been undermined. Actions that could jeopardize party stability must sometimes be addressed in order to prevent future occurrences.
Some political analysts believe the situation may even help the government put its house in order ahead of the 2027 elections.
Many politicians also questioned Hon. Kamfani’s actions and choice of words, describing them as a serious political blunder and a setback to his future ambitions and engagements.
On the other hand, it was also alleged that some Islamic clerics (Ulama) viewed his actions as a display of ingratitude. Their argument is that, after serving for twelve uninterrupted years—three terms—in the National Assembly, it appears unnecessary to engage in open confrontation with the governor simply because he was allegedly denied the opportunity to seek a fourth term.
The situation has created anxiety among ordinary citizens. Many people believe that if one person is not willing to give another a chance, then how can others hope to be accommodated in the future? Sometimes, one must let go of something good to make room for something better.
What can be said about former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who served for eight years but could not secure a Senate ticket afterward? Bello is currently standing trial.
For readers who may have forgotten, the EFCC filed a 19-count charge against him involving the alleged mismanagement of over N80 billion. He still has a trial to attend at the Federal High Court in Abuja. He may or may not eventually emerge as a candidate.
What about former Kano State Governor Senator Kabiru Gaya, or former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, who also faced political setbacks despite their influence? Politics often comes with sacrifices. Truly, there is no gain without pain.
Sometimes, the actions of public office holders may appear irrational from a distance, but a closer look often reveals deeper reasons behind those decisions.
One thing I know is this: no tailor can sew clothes that satisfy everybody’s taste. No individual is indispensable.
Dan Modi, people may attempt to destroy your image or stain your personality, but they cannot erase your good deeds and noble character. No matter how others describe you, you will still be appreciated by those who truly know you. Continue to lead the change you wish to see.
In this regard, I commend the governor for his calmness and restraint, especially for not attempting to initiate any move to recall Hon. Kamfani.
I also appeal to Governor Malam Umar Namadi to allow opposition voices and democratic processes to flourish freely and smoothly in the state without unnecessary hindrance, so that Jigawa State can continue to conduct fair, free, credible, peaceful, and transparent elections.
As Governor Namadi continues to promote agricultural development—particularly small- and medium-scale farming—as part of his 12-point agenda, it is my hope that the government will remain committed to supporting farmers during this rainy season.
Farmers across the state should continue to enjoy maximum support in crop production through mechanized farming, affordable fertilizer, and improved livestock support systems. Such measures will go a long way toward reducing clashes between farmers and herders.
Furthermore, Governor Namadi should consider establishing a special agency or task force to address desert encroachment. Climate change is a global issue, and serious governments are paying close attention to it. Desert encroachment remains one of the major environmental challenges confronting Jigawa State today.
Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State.