The Humanitarian Times

By Abdulkareem Haruna

In the present day greed-driven theater of Nigerian politics, where the “incumbency factor” is often a battleground for ego and where the quest for power is frequently a do-or-die affair, the Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdullahi Askira, makes a difference with a startling anomaly.

At a time when many of his contemporaries are digging in their heels for 2027, Engineer Askira has chosen a path less traveled: the path of graceful exit and selfless deference.

Those following happenings in past weeks, would recall how  the political atmosphere in Borno South had been charged with anticipation as Hon. Askira, a formidable grassroots mobilizer, prepared to challenge the veteran Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume for the senatorial seat. Without Askira saying a word, the grassroots movement led by his loyalists to unseat Ndume sent shockwaves through the veteran Senator’s camp. This pressure forced Ndume’s supporters into an early scramble, orchestrating fund drives for his nomination forms and launching high-stakes lobbying to ensure his continuity.

However, following a strategic intervention by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Deputy Speaker did what few in his position would not contemplate. He simply withdrew.
Citing a profound respect for party leadership and the need for internal cohesion, Askira’s decision wasn’t merely a political maneuver; it was an act of statesmanship. By prioritizing the stability of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over his personal ambition, he underscored a rare brand of loyalty in an era of rampant party cross-carpetting and litigious primaries.

I Am Not the Only Son
What followed his withdrawal was perhaps even more remarkable. When asked during a press conference on his next move, Askira did not demand a “consolation prize” or a cabinet position. Instead, he dropped a bombshell of humility that has sent ripples through the state’s political landscape.

“I am not the only son or daughter of Askira Uba Local Government. I’ve done my part and I thank God for His kindness upon me and my family. Let’s allow other qualified sons and daughters of Askira Uba to also come in and contribute their quota.”

After four terms of legislative service, Hon Askira announced his intention to step aside from elective politics come 2027. In a country where “life-membership” in the legislature is the unspoken goal of many, his declaration is a refreshing breeze of democratic oxygen.

The Legacy of a Selfless Lawmaker
Hon Askira’s selflessness provides a crucial lesson for the Nigerian political class. Engr Askira had once informed this reporter that his political philosophy stands on three major pillars:
Leadership is a Relay: “Success,” he said, “is not just in how fast you run, but in how well you pass the baton.”
Power is Finite: “Recognizing when one’s quota has been contributed is the ultimate mark of integrity.”
Community Over Self: “By stepping aside, we are actively creating space for a new generation of leaders from Askira Uba to emerge.”

A Model for 2027
As the drums for the next general election begin to beat, Hon. Abdullahi Askira has set a high bar. He has proven that one can be powerful without being power-drunk, and one can also be influential without being indispensable.

In the corridors of power in Borno, Engineer Abdullahi Askira will be remembered not just for the laws he helped craft or the motions he moved or seconded, but for the quiet dignity with which he chose to say, “It is enough.” 
For the people of Borno South and the wider Nigerian polity, Askira’s exit is not a loss of representation, but a gain in moral capital.