Why Bagudu, Aleiro must heed call of history — Kebbi youths
A pro-democracy group, Youth for Kebbi Renewal Project, has called on Senators Adamu Aleiro and Atiku Bagudu to step aside from the 2027 senatorial race in Kebbi State.
The chairman of the group, Auwal Ahmed Isah, in a statement on Thursday, said the call reflects the voice of reason and the pulse of the people.
According to him, the call is not an act of disrespect but one of principle, borne out of a genuine desire to reposition the politics of Kebbi State for the future.
The statement said: “Senator Adamu Aleiro has served Kebbi in nearly every powerful political capacity available, former Governor of Kebbi State (1999–2007), Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and a sitting senator for three terms.
“Senator Atiku Bagudu is no different. From serving as a Senator to being a two-term Governor of Kebbi State (2015–2023), and now the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, he holds one of the most critical positions in Nigeria’s economic framework.”
When is Enough, Enough?
The question every well-meaning Kebbian must ask is: What else is left to prove?
“Decades in power should culminate in mentorship, not a monopoly. True statesmen know when to exit the stage with grace and groom successors. Staying perpetually in power stifles innovation, suppresses fresh ideas, and creates a culture of entitlement and patronage rather than public service.”
Unproductive Cycles and Self-Serving Politics
“While these elder statesmen have had the advantage of experience, it is disheartening that the people of Kebbi Central still battle with poor representation on key developmental indices:
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“Youth unemployment remains high in the area despite years of political dominance by the same individuals.
“No clear legislative legacy exists that significantly differentiates the impact of one term from another, no groundbreaking bills, and no transformative constituency projects.
“Public infrastructure in Kebbi Central is still underdeveloped, and educational, health, and water supply systems are grossly below national standards.It is now that the current governor Dr. Nasiru Idris Kauran Gwandu is gradually reversing the past.”
Political Renewal is Not a Crime. It’s a necessity.
“In politics, leadership is not inheritance. It is stewardship. Stewardship requires that at some point, the baton is passed. Across the globe, democracy is sustained not by recycled power blocs but by periodic renewal, fresh blood, and new energy.
“Nigeria is a youthful country,with over 70% of its population under the age of 35. Yet, we remain governed by individuals who emerged in the 1990s or earlier.”
Why Must They Step Aside?
1. For equity: Others deserve a chance to serve. Power should not revolve around a few.
2. For inclusion: Youth and women are sidelined while the old guard refuses to retire.
3. For growth: Innovation is driven by new perspectives, not entrenched political thinking.
4. For legacy: Great leaders know when to leave. Their legacy is stronger when they empower others, not when they cling to power.
Let the Future Begin
“To Senator Aleiro and Senator Bagudu: This is your moment of statesmanship. Heed the voice of your people. Support young, dynamic, competent, and loyal party members. This will not be the reason the APC loses credibility among the people. Be the mentors, the godfathers of ideas, not just titles.
“Let history remember you as leaders who knew when to rise and when to bow out for the sake of the future.”
