Leadership contrast reshaping Kaduna’s political landscape

By MUHAMMAD SHEHU MOLASH

On the 24th of May 2024, Governor Uba Sani faced one of the most painful moments of his life: The death of his younger brother, Pharm. Mukhtar Lawal, who passed away after sustaining injuries in a ghastly motor accident. The loss was deep and very personal to the governor. The late Mukhtar was among his closest siblings, and it touched many people across Kaduna State and beyond.

Nigerians from different backgrounds came together to mourn with him and offer support.

However, one absence stood out: former governor Nasir El-Rufai, who neither attended the burial nor sent a condolence message. There was no visit, no public statement, and no sign of sympathy. It appeared to be a deliberate choice. It was clear and very noticeable to everyone around the state and beyond. All known associates of the former governor also stayed away.

Fast forward to March 29th, 2026, when Nasir El-Rufai experienced his own loss. The death of his dear mother. Governor Uba Sani responded differently. He led a delegation of top Kaduna State Government officials, including cabinet members, lawmakers, and local government chairmen, to pay their respects. He stood with others to offer support and compassion! Something he himself did not receive from a man with whom he shared decades of mutual friendship.

This scenario reflects the personality of a man who always chooses compassion over bitterness. Governor Uba Sani’s calm and simple approach to leadership is not a sign of weakness; rather, it shows discipline and maturity. He focuses on unity instead of division, and on service instead of personal grievances. For him, leadership is about setting good examples, not settling scores.

Today, the people of Kaduna State are watching, and they can see the difference. Many believe that under Uba Sani’s leadership, the political environment has become more stable and inclusive. Civil servants now work without fear of sudden dismissal with no gratuity. Political opponents are now free to express their views without intimidation, a luxury that the likes of Steven Kefas, Audu Maikori, and even Sheikh Bello Yabo could not afford then. The same applies to veteran politicians like Senator Hunkuyi and the late Inuwa Abdulka, who lost their homes through one of the most bizarre displays of power in recent history.

Shettima hails Uba Sani, says Kaduna sets benchmark on skills devt

Similarly, small business owners now carry on with their activities without fear of losing their means of livelihood overnight through unexpected demolitions. Development is also being spread more evenly across the state, reaching not just city centres but other communities as well. Political appointments now largely go to qualified indigenes of Kaduna State, who have contributed to its growth and political process, as opposed to the era when a large percentage of “choice” appointments were given to imported cronies from Ogun, Lagos, Kano, Katsina, and elsewhere.

Local governments are more involved in governance, and there is a stronger sense of inclusion among the people. Landowners feel more secure about their properties, unlike before, when one could wake up to discover that an Abuja-based Mistress or a business partner from Akure had become the “bona fide” owner of a lifetime investment.

These changes point to a shift in leadership style. Uba Sani is seen by many as a leader who values empathy, dignity, and progress.

In the end, it is not just words that define a leader, but actions. And for many in Kaduna, those actions are becoming clearer. Therefore, it is pertinent to note that the characters masquerading as “Messiahs” in the newly formed association of expired politicians, were in positions of power only yesterday. Today, they present themselves as fresh voices, seeking new leadership roles and public trust. But many citizens remember their time in office and the impact of their decisions.

If there is any “rot” in the APC, is it not fair to say that those who once held power within that system also contributed to it? Responsibility does not disappear simply because one has changed political platforms. And what exactly are they offering now that is different from what they did then?

Are they seeking to return us to an era when workers and traditional rulers were removed from their positions without compassion? A time when tuition fees in our tertiary institutions were increased without considering the economic hardship faced by ordinary families? A period when bulldozers moved in the dead of night to displace entire communities, as seen in Graceland in Zaria, or when heavy machinery was stationed at the entrance of places like Gbagi Villa, creating fear and uncertainty?

These are recent experiences that many of us still remember clearly.

As they seek new positions under a different banner, the public has every right to ask questions, demand accountability, and look closely at past records. True leadership is not just about new promises, but about learning from the past and showing a clear commitment to doing better.

*Molash, a political analyst, writes from Soba.

The Star