2027: Jigawa and the Politics of Godfatherism

By Adamu Muhd Usman

“No amount of tricks of the trade will avoid the need to set some sort of priority when allocating one’s time.” — John Harvey Jones (1924), British business executive and author.

Nigeria is a unique country where the unexpected often becomes reality. It is a place where the fortunate can become the unfortunate, and vice versa. One wonders why someone would labor to build something, only for envy, jealousy, or selfish ambition to attempt to destroy it.

In 2023, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the gubernatorial election in Jigawa State under the leadership of then-Governor H.E. Alhaji Muhammadu Badaru Abubakar. However, no one can confidently and truthfully claim that Badaru made Malam Umar Namadi (popularly known as Dan Modi) the governor. It was entirely the will and wish of Allah.

The emergence of Malam Umar Namadi as governor came as a surprise to many, especially members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and even some within the APC. Despite several attempts to block him from contesting, Allah’s will prevailed. He triumphed in both the primaries and the general election.

There have been allegations of conflict between two factions within the APC in Jigawa State: one loyal to former Governor Badaru and the other to Governor Umar Namadi. These stories should be properly investigated and verified, as some may be the handiwork of envious detractors. Allegations have surfaced that Badaru’s associates undermined the APC’s chances for 2027 to serve their own interests.

Despite this, Dan Modi has performed commendably during his tenure so far, despite resistance and threats from Badaru loyalists. Known for his calm demeanor, Malam Umar has avoided unnecessary confrontations. As someone I have known since the late 1970s, he is a principled and mature leader who believes in party culture and traditions. His humanitarian disposition and sense of unity reflect his Islamic values.

As a political observer and commentator, I feel compelled to express my views on this issue, as it has become a matter of public concern. It is troubling that some individuals are pushing Badaru toward a stance of godfatherism. This phenomenon, which involves influential figures controlling elected leaders, undermines democratic principles.

Reflecting on Jigawa’s political history, godfatherism has never been a defining feature since the state’s creation in 1991. Even during the era of Dr. Sule Lamido (CON) and the late Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi, there were no attempts to dictate or dominate their successors. Each governor—from H.E. Barr. Ali Sa’adu to Senator Saminu, H.E. Lamido, and even Badaru himself—was allowed to govern independently. Why should Malam Umar’s tenure be any different?

The current situation between Governor Namadi and Minister Badaru is not just an APC issue; it concerns the entire state. If left unchecked, this political feud could hinder the state’s progress. Jigawa must avoid the kind of crises that have plagued states like Rivers, Kaduna, and Zamfara.

Elders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders should step in to mediate between Governor Namadi and Minister Badaru. Badaru, now a minister of defense, should focus on addressing national security challenges rather than engaging in local political disputes. If he fails to reconsider his actions, the achievements and legacies he left behind in Jigawa could be undermined.

The people of Jigawa must prioritize prayers and collective action to protect the state’s future. Whether Malam Umar seeks re-election or someone else emerges, Jigawa’s growth and development should remain the ultimate goal.

Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State.