The Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, has urged politicians to prioritise the welfare of citizens, humility and humanity, saying leadership should be measured by its impact on people’s lives
The emir spoke when he received the Director-General of the Tinubu 2027 Campaign Council and his delegation at his palace in Katsina
He cautioned politicians against witch-hunting, castigation and malice, saying they should rely on persuasion and conviction to win public support
“Politics is about conviction If you want people to follow you, you must convince them. You do not have to resort to witch-hunting, castigation or malice to achieve your political objectives,” he said.
Quoting verses from the Qur’an, the monarch urged political leaders to embrace humility, selflessness and compassion, stressing that leadership should serve the people rather than promote personal interests
He said democracy required leaders to involve citizens in decision-making and ensure that public policies reflected their needs and aspirations
The emir also expressed concern over the erosion of societal values and morality, calling for greater integrity, accountability and responsible leadership
He said unfulfilled campaign promises had weakened public confidence in democratic governance, urging politicians to translate their promises into tangible improvements in people’s lives
The monarch further urged elders in northern Nigeria to speak truth to power and hold political leaders accountable, regardless of their political affiliations or personal relationships
He said the region needed voices willing to draw attention to pressing social and economic challenges rather than remain silent over the shortcomings of those in authority
The emir also expressed concern over the decline of some of the North’s once-prominent industries, including Peugeot, the Nigerian Industrial Development Corporation (NIDC) and textile companies
He urged political leaders to address the region’s industrial decline, warning of its implications for employment, economic growth and the livelihoods of citizens