Namadi, Badaru and the question of loyalty, by Adnan Mukhtar
“Trust is earned, respect is given, and loyalty is demonstrated. Betrayal of any one of those is to lose all three”.
From the above quote by Ziad K. Abdelnour, one of Wall Street’s most accomplished financier and prolific authors, it is clear that loyalty is a delicate dance of trust, respect, and mutual understanding. The same foundational principle upon which earned the current Jigawa state Governor Umar Namadi respect on the table of former Jigawa state governor and current Minister of Defence Muhammad Badaru Abubakar.
This profound saying sets the stage for understanding the relationship between Governor Namadi and his predecessor, Badaru Abubakar. Badaru, who served as Governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023, had entrusted Namadi with key roles in his administration, first as a Commissioner and later as Deputy Governor to succeed the Deputy Chief of Staff to President Tinubu Ibrahim Hassan Hadeija. This mentorship not only launched Namadi’s political career but also earned him the respect of his predecessor.
As someone who has followed Jigawa State’s politics for over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of observing the intricacies of its governance. Although I’m not a native of Jigawa, my connections to the state run deep. I’ve had friends who served in Badaru’s administration, and some are currently part of Governor Namadi’s team. My 13-year tenure as a political commentator has also given me a unique perspective on the state’s political landscape, allowing me to analyze and report on its developments through various media platforms.
With this background, I’ll delve into the complexity of the Namadi-Badaru relationship, exploring the dynamics of loyalty, trust, and respect that have shaped their political journeys. What happens when these bonds are tested? Does the pursuit of power and ambition lead to betrayal, or can relationships withstand the pressures of politics? These questions will guide our examination of the complex situation unfolding in Jigawa State.
In 2015, I penned a cautionary article for Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, then Deputy Governor of Kano State, warning him to steer clear of the same fate that befell Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi, a former Deputy Governor of Zamfara State. Shinkafi had successfully succeeded his principal, Ahmed Sani Yarima, but their relationship quickly soured. Yarima ultimately turned against him, throwing his weight behind Abdulaziz Yari in the 2011 election. This move proved costly for Shinkafi, who went on to lose the election and subsequently faded into political obscurity.
Politics has it’s way of playing out, but betrayal has a more devastating consequence in the political field on the betrayer than the betrayed. Many cases in point abound but obviously lessons are yet to be taken by many.
This brings us back to the Jigawa scenario. The then-Governor Badaru Abubakar’s decision not to openly oppose Umar Namadi’s candidacy in the APC primaries was a pivotal moment in Namadi’s rise to power. In fact, many believe that Namadi’s emergence was quietly backed by Badaru, who chose not to publicly endorse any candidate. This move was likely motivated by two key reasons. Firstly, as governor and party leader, Badaru had to maintain neutrality and ensure a level playing field for all aspirants, including Farouk Adamu Aliyu, Sabo Muhammad Nakudu, and Ahmad Rufai Zakari, among others. Secondly, by allowing a fair and transparent primary process, Badaru demonstrated his commitment to democracy and avoided fueling internal party conflicts.
By taking a hands-off approach, Badaru exercised maturity and prioritized the stability of the party, despite reportedly facing pressure from various party chieftains. This decision ultimately paved the way for Namadi’s success and marked a significant turning point in Jigawa State’s politics. Badaru’s actions underscored his dedication to upholding democratic principles and allowing the people to choose their leader, rather than imposing his own preference. This approach not only earned him respect but also ensured a peaceful transition of power.
The current state of affairs in Jigawa State is truly disconcerting. Governor Umar Namadi’s actions have raised eyebrows, particularly his alleged attempt to undermine his former principal, Minister Muhammad Badaru Abubakar. It’s reported that Namadi recommended the nomination of another minister from Badaru’s hometown, seemingly to counterbalance his influence and pave the way for the President to potentially remove him from office. Fortunately, this plan didn’t come to fruition, thanks to circumstances beyond human control as Almighty Allah in his wisdom didn’t allow that to happen. Governor Namadi should be ashamed of his actions.
Many are left wondering why Namadi would engage in such tactics, especially considering his own rise to power was facilitated by Badaru’s mentorship. This perceived betrayal has sparked widespread criticism, with many calling on Namadi to reflect on his actions and consider the long-term implications for his legacy and relationships. As the governor of Jigawa State, Namadi’s decisions have significant consequences, and it’s essential he prioritizes the well-being of his constituents and maintains a positive working relationship with his predecessors.
The governor whom I know through a friend is an accomplished accountant and businessman who rose to become the pioneer Head of the Dangote Group Management Accounts Department before he was appointed Commissioner of Finance and later Deputy Governor in the administration of Badaru Abubakar.
It’s alarming to see Governor Umar Namadi’s administration embroiled in a media frenzy, with some appointees publicly attacking his predecessor, Badaru Abubakar. What’s even more concerning is the alleged reason behind the governor’s actions: removing political office holders solely due to their loyalty to Badaru, his former benefactor. This raises questions about Dan Modi’s leadership and character.
As someone known for his strong religious convictions and devotion to Allah SWT, it’s surprising that he seems to be disregarding the Qur’anic principle of rewarding kindness with kindness. Instead, his actions suggest that loyalty to Badaru is being punished. This departure from his usual values has many wondering if this is indeed the true Dan Modi. His administration’s focus on good governance and accountability appears to be at odds with these recent actions.
The situation is particularly striking given the significant influence Badaru had on Namadi’s rise to power. It’s essential for leaders to uphold the values of gratitude, loyalty, and integrity, especially when they’ve benefited from others’ guidance and support. The people of Jigawa State deserve a leader who embodies these principles, and it’s crucial that Dan Modi reflects on his actions to ensure they align with his values and the expectations of his constituents.
Would he scale the party primaries if the governor doesn’t support him? He should critically look at the relationship of past and present Deputy Governors with their principals. Of recent is that of Ganduje and Kwankwaso, Godwin Obaseki and Philip Shuaibu which later led to the impeachment of the latter before his reinstatement by a court of law. Will that be a path the governor wants to find himself on?
Dan Modi should not allow sycophants to mislead him, he should rather focus on governance by reuniting with his former principal and think of ways they can bring development to their state together.
Political feuds are naturally a distraction to governance. It will deny people the dividends of democracy.
Namadi should take a step back and reflect on his history, remembering the person who gave him the opportunities that catapulted him to where he is today. It’s essential to show gratitude to the individual who appointed him as Commissioner and Deputy Governor, as this person played a significant role in shaping his career. After all, it’s only right to respect the hand that fed him, especially when considering the significant impact this person had on his rise to power. This is a fundamental principle of human relationships, as seen in stories like “The Grateful Beasts and the Ungrateful Man” from the Panchatantra, which highlights the importance of gratitude and loyalty.
By acknowledging and appreciating the support he received, Namadi can demonstrate his character and commitment to valuing the people who helped him along the way.
If not, rewarding kindness with betrayal will backlash, sooner or later. A word is enough for the wise.
Mukhtar is a university lecturer and political commentator. He writes from Cairo
