Politics is a game of interests, influence, and sometimes, survival. But above all, it is about leadership—leading people with wisdom, fairness, and strategic foresight. At this critical point in Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s political career, one thing is clear: his ability to build more friends than enemies will define his legacy far beyond his tenure in office.
Just yesterday, Ganduje received a vote of confidence from the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC)—a significant gesture considering the turbulence surrounding his political journey.
This is not just a lifeline; it is an opportunity—one that he must seize to prove himself as more than just a “money monger,” as critics often describe him. If I were in his shoes, my approach would be simple: mend fences, consolidate power through unity, and rewrite my political narrative.
Power is Fleeting, but Influence Lasts
One of the biggest mistakes politicians make is believing that power alone is enough to sustain relevance. The reality, however, is that power is temporary, but influence—built through meaningful relationships—lasts far longer.
Ganduje must realize that his current standing within the APC is not just about political loyalty but also about how he navigates relationships, particularly in Kano and at the national level.
If I were him, I would prioritize reconciling with those I have wronged—whether within the party, in Kano politics, or even in the opposition. Political grudges only create unnecessary enemies, and in a democracy, today’s enemy could be tomorrow’s ally. The greatest leaders understand this and act accordingly.
Rewriting the Narrative: Beyond Money Politics
Ganduje’s name has been tainted by allegations of corruption, with many reducing his political identity to financial controversies. Whether true or not, perception is powerful in politics. Now, with a renewed opportunity, he must take deliberate steps to reshape how people see him.
If I were Ganduje, I would focus on key strategies:
1. Promote issue-based politics: Move away from financial influence and instead drive conversations around governance, policy, and party unity.
2. Public engagement and transparency: Address concerns surrounding governance and finances head-on. The more open and accountable a leader appears, the more trust they can regain.
3. Legacy projects: Even outside active governance, supporting impactful initiatives in education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment can redefine how history remembers him.
Building Bridges for Political Survival
At this stage, every political move must be calculated with the future in mind. As a former governor, Ganduje still holds considerable influence in Kano politics, but influence without consolidation means little. If I were him, I would engage in high-level bridge-building, both within the APC and beyond.
– Reunite factions within APC Kano: The state remains politically divided, and without unity, APC’s strength in Kano could diminish.
– Reach out to political opponents: There is nothing undignified about making peace with former rivals. In fact, it is a mark of true leadership.
– Strengthen national alliances: The political landscape is unpredictable, and having allies beyond Kano is crucial for long-term relevance.
Final Thoughts
The vote of confidence Ganduje received is not just a validation; it is an invitation—to prove himself, to lead differently, and to transition from being seen as a controversial figure to a respected statesman.
If I were him, I would spend the next phase of my career doing exactly that: making more friends than enemies, consolidating my influence, and ensuring that my name, when written in history, is associated with strategy, leadership, and reconciliation rather than controversy.
This is the opportunity of a lifetime. Will he take it?
Samira Usman Adam wrote this piece from Kano and he can be reached at sammyranoh@gmail.com