Recent remarks attributed to the Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, during an appearance on Arise Television concerning the question of who occupies the Government House in 2027, have understandably generated concern among thoughtful stakeholders across the state. In those remarks, the Governor acknowledged Distinguished Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura as his “mentor,” yet simultaneously employed language perceived by many as diminishing to the person and legacy of Senator Al-Makura. Such contradiction is not only unfortunate; it is fundamentally flawed.
Leadership is not an exercise in convenience. One cannot, in good conscience, lay claim to the tutelage, political goodwill, and support of a benefactor while, in the same breath, seeking to publicly disparage him. As the Chinese proverb says, “You cannot cut off a man’s nose and then offer him roses to smell.”
It must be stated without equivocation that the legacy of Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura is neither speculative nor subject to revisionist interpretation. His contributions remain deeply etched in the political and developmental history of Nasarawa State. His tenure as Governor, alongside his continued relevance as a national political figure, is defined by verifiable achievements and enduring impact. By every standard, Senator Al-Makura has earned his place as a political institution. To attempt to diminish such a record through careless rhetoric is not only intellectually disingenuous, but politically reckless.
Mentorship is not a rhetorical device to be invoked when expedient. It is a relationship founded on respect, loyalty, gratitude, and enduring acknowledgment. Any attempt to trivialize the far-reaching role of one’s mentor in the public arena undermines the moral foundation upon which credible leadership is built.
Those who occupy positions of authority must understand that their words are neither idle nor inconsequential. Public utterances carry institutional weight, shape public perception, and set the tone for political engagement. As the African adage reminds us, “Words are like grains: easy to scatter, but difficult to gather.”
We therefore call on His Excellency, Governor A.A. Sule, to exercise greater circumspection, intellectual honesty, and respect in his public engagements, especially toward individuals whose contributions to his political journey and to Nasarawa State remain undeniable. Where differences exist, they should be addressed with maturity, restraint, and discretion, not through statements capable of projecting ingratitude or diminishing the dignity of leadership.
Nasarawa State deserves leadership grounded in truth, consistency, humility, and a proper appreciation of history. History is neither indifferent nor forgetful; it records with remarkable precision not only the achievements of leaders, but also the character of their words, the discipline of their conduct, and the grace with which they honour those who helped shape their journey.
— Hon. Mohammed I. Usman writes from Lafia
