Matawalle’s Home Visit: More than Reminiscent of a Grand Festival
By Lawal Umar Maradun,
In the historic but sleepy town of Maradun, excitement buzzed through the air as His Excellency, the immediate-past Governor of Zamfara State and the current Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Bello Mohammed Matawalle Maradun, returned home to a warm and vibrant welcome.
The occasion marked and coincided with his recent triumph at the Appeal Court in Abuja, where the Zamfara State March 18th, 2023 Governorship election was declared inconclusive, reigniting hope and enthusiasm among his supporters across the state.
As the news of the court’s decision echoed through the state, the region and the nation, the town of Maradun brimmed with anticipation. Luckily, Hon. Matawalle made an unannounced visit to his hometown. Despite his embarking on the trip without public notice, before his arrival, the news spread surreptitiously and the entire road leading to his hometown became a testament to the overwhelming support and solidarity of the people from different parts of the state. The streets, usually calm, were transformed into a sea of jubilant faces, eager to catch a glimpse of their esteemed leader, popularly called ‘Dodo’ (the courageous).
Matawalle’s arrival brought together a diverse array of well-wishers, showcasing the unity and strength of his political base. Among those who gathered were party stalwarts, both at the state and local government levels, reflecting the broad spectrum of political support that Matawalle commanded in the state. Their presence underscored the significance of his recent legal victory and the impact it had on the political landscape. It also highlighted the enthusiasm of the majority of the people in the state for his return.
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The town resonated with the echoes of prayers as Ulama, the Islamic scholars in the state, joined the jubilant crowd during a series of courtesy visits he received shortly after arrival. This reflected Matawalle’s kindness and humility to different strata of people in the society. Similarly, their presence symbolized not only political support but also the spiritual endorsement of Matawalle’s leadership. Elders, with their years of wisdom, stood side by side with the youth, emphasizing the cross-generational appeal of the Honourable Minister and their hope for return as Executive Governor of the state.
The scenes were reminiscent of a grand festival, with traditional music playing in the background and the air filled with the sweet scent of celebration. Matawalle, dressed in regal, majestic, and traditional attire, acknowledged the overwhelming welcome with gratitude, waving to the sea of supporters that stretched as far as the eye could see.
The show of solidarity and support became more than a political event; it became a reaffirmation of the people’s trust in Matawalle’s leadership. His ability to bring together diverse groups underlined his commitment to inclusivity and unity in Zamfara State.
During his arrival and as the convoy slowly made its way through the adoring crowd, it was evident that Matawalle’s journey was more than a physical return home – it was a return to the hearts of the people who had eagerly awaited this moment that they have missed for six months. The road to Maradun, once merely free of crowd, had transformed into a symbolic route of triumph, which was paved with the unwavering loyalty of the citizens who stood in solidarity with their leader, Matawalle – Dodo!
Lawal Umar Maradun, fnipr, arpa, is former PPS to His Excellency, Governor Bello Matawalle MON, FSESN, FNATE.
