The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has issued a compelling call for a return to the cherished governance principles of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the revered Sardauna of Sokoto, presenting it as the ultimate remedy to the escalating security crisis and persistent unrest plaguing Northern Nigeria.
A Legacy of Inclusive Leadership
Professor Doknan Sheni, the NEF's National Secretary, passionately articulated this position during a high-level meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission. He emphasized that the Sardauna's distinctive approach to governance created an environment where every citizen, regardless of ethnic or religious background, felt genuinely valued and included in the developmental agenda.
'The Sardauna didn't merely govern; he built a system where everyone had a stake,' Professor Sheni stated. 'His leadership transcended tribal and religious divisions, fostering a true sense of belonging and collective purpose that is sorely missing today.'
Confronting Modern Security Realities
The Forum expressed deep concern about the deteriorating security situation across northern states, highlighting the alarming frequency of bandit attacks, kidnappings, and communal conflicts that have displaced thousands and crippled economic activities.
Professor Sheni drew stark contrasts between current realities and the relative stability of the Sardauna era, noting that 'the pervasive fear and uncertainty gripping our communities stand in direct opposition to the peace and security that defined Northern Nigeria during those formative years.'
Beyond Security: Holistic Development
The NEF's vision extends beyond mere security concerns. The elders advocate for a comprehensive revival of the Sardauna's development blueprint, which prioritized:
- Educational advancement and literacy programs
- Agricultural modernization and food security
- Infrastructure development and economic empowerment
- Inter-ethnic dialogue and religious tolerance
'True peace cannot be achieved through security operations alone,' Professor Sheni asserted. 'It requires addressing the root causes of discontent—poverty, inequality, and marginalization—through the same inclusive lens that made the Sardauna's administration so successful.'
A Call to Action for Current Leadership
The Northern Elders Forum urged contemporary political leaders at both state and federal levels to study and implement the Sardauna's governance model, emphasizing that his legacy offers practical solutions to modern challenges.
'The wisdom of our founding fathers contains answers to many of our current problems,' Professor Sheni concluded. 'By embracing the Sardauna's philosophy of inclusive development, we can rebuild the social fabric of Northern Nigeria and restore the region to its former glory.'
This historic recommendation comes at a critical juncture as Northern Nigeria grapples with complex security and developmental challenges, offering a nostalgic yet potentially transformative path toward sustainable peace and prosperity.
