When the PDP lost its prominence in the 2003 general elections in Kano, it was a perplexing moment for me. Despite the party’s strong support base and influence in the state, the ANPP emerged victorious, largely due to the popularity of its presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari. Figures like Ibrahim Shekarau also secured their positions swiftly, garnering over a million votes without much difficulty.
However, the subsequent years saw a shift in fortunes. By the 2007 general elections, Shekarau’s support had dwindled, partly due to internal strife within his party and the withdrawal of support from Buhari’s organization during the state’s campaign. His vote tally halved compared to 2003, signaling a significant decline in popularity.
Shekarau’s success was attributed to various factors, including the loyalty of groups like the Hizba guards and Adaidaita Sahu drivers, who feared losing their jobs if he were ousted. Financial resources also played a crucial role, with Shekarau reportedly spending over a billion naira solely on his 2007 campaign. However, assurances were made to modernize the transportation systems, promising to replace their current vehicles with air-conditioned luxury buses and provide permanent employment opportunities for Hizba guards in various sectors.
The PDP’s defeat in Kano served as a divine lesson, according to some, highlighting issues of violence instigated by a few to discredit PDP leaders. Security concerns were paramount, exacerbated by incidents such as the tragic murder of prominent figures like Alhaji Abubakar Rimi’s wife and respected Islamic scholar Sheikh Ja’afar, both killed in their homes during Shekarau’s tenure. These incidents raised questions about the claimed peace and progress under his administration.
During the 2003 elections, PDP faced internal fragmentation, with key figures like Rimi, Kwankwaso, and Ghali competing for influence, ultimately undermining the party’s cohesion and electoral prospects. This internal strife persisted, with figures like Kwankwaso, despite later becoming a minister, lamenting the abandonment of critical infrastructure projects initiated during his tenure, such as water projects, road modernization, and education initiatives.
Shekarau’s administration was criticized for neglecting infrastructure maintenance, resulting in deteriorating roads and inadequate drainage systems contributing to health risks like mosquito-borne diseases. Despite some achievements like establishing the state university and housing projects for the poor, unemployment levels soared, exacerbated by the lack of sustainable employment opportunities beyond informal sectors like Achaba riders.
However, recent efforts by PDP under the leadership of Senator Mas’ud El-Jibril Doguwa aimed at reconciling internal factions, including Rimi, Kwankwaso, and Ghali, have shown promise. The party seeks to regain voter trust, promising continuity of developmental projects initiated between 1999 and 2003. The populace is eager for change, having witnessed shifts in local government elections in 2007, demonstrating a growing discontent with current governance.
Looking forward, the challenge remains for Shekarau and ANPP to defend their record amidst public scrutiny and mounting expectations for progress and transparency. The electorate’s decision in future elections will determine the path forward for Kano’s development trajectory, emphasizing the need for accountable leadership and effective governance strategies aligned with public welfare and infrastructure development.
Ultimately, Kano residents anticipate the return of PDP to restore the momentum of developmental initiatives and address critical challenges affecting the state’s progress. The hope is for a renewed commitment to good governance, propelled by the aspirations of the people and guided by wisdom and foresight.