On Saturday, May 24, 2025, the ancient town of Kuta in Niger State wasn’t just hosting a dignitary — it was embracing a son. The homecoming of Comrade Yakubu Garba, Deputy Governor of Niger State, to the headquarters of Shiroro Local Government Area carried weight far beyond ceremonial greetings. It was a political reckoning, a personal plea, and a masterclass in humility.
By Abubakar Abdullahi el-Kurebe
In the days leading up to his visit, a quiet storm had been brewing within the local chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC). At the heart of the tension was the selection of Hon. Isyaku Bawa as the party’s consensus candidate for the upcoming chairmanship elections. Many had hoped for Zahradeen Wasa Kudodo — a popular grassroots mobilizer — to clinch the ticket. When the party instead settled for Bawa, perceived by many as the Governor’s anointed candidate, discontent simmered.
But when Comrade Yakubu Garba stepped into Kuta, he didn’t come with a combative tone or a politician’s rehearsed defense. He came as a peacemaker — and more importantly, as a son seeking to bridge wounded relationships in his own home.
A dialogue rooted in respect
In a stakeholders’ meeting that drew both elders and youth, Garba acknowledged the pain many felt and asked for forgiveness.
“If Hon. Isyaku Bawa has wronged anyone,” he said with quiet sincerity, “please forgive him. No one is perfect. Support him, vote for him, and pray for him. I’m hopeful that he will live up to your expectations.”
His words weren’t coated in political spin. They were simple, heartfelt, and purposeful. In that moment, the Deputy Governor became less of a government official and more of a community elder — leaning on wisdom and emotional intelligence rather than executive authority.
Beyond politics: Lessons in leadership
Garba’s visit, however, wasn’t just about mending political fences. It turned into a rare opportunity to pass down critical life lessons, especially to the youth. He took a bold swipe at hypocrisy in leadership, condemning deceit, double standards, and the dangers of political pretense.
“Truthfulness, consistency, and sincerity,” he noted, “are the foundation upon which strong communities and great nations are built.”
His message was clear: Without integrity, unity cannot exist. Without truth, even power becomes meaningless.
A word to the youth: Respect isn’t old-fashioned
In perhaps the most memorable part of his speech, Comrade Yakubu issued a firm but fatherly warning to the younger generation — especially those active on social media.
“You can express your opinion,” he said, “but always with manners. When respect dies in a society, chaos takes over.”
It was a timely message. In today’s digital age, the lines between freedom of expression and disrespect are often blurred. Garba’s appeal was a reminder that decorum still matters — not for the sake of tradition alone, but for the preservation of community values.
Takeaways from a meaningful homecoming
Garba’s visit wasn’t just a series of speeches — it was a turning point. Here are some key reflections:
- Leadership Means Listening
Rather than enforce decisions, Garba opened a dialogue. His approach emphasized healing over hegemony. - Unity Trumps Political Victory
A fractured party cannot govern effectively. His reconciliation message prioritized peace over winning at all costs. - Hypocrisy Erodes Trust
His warning against double-dealing was a subtle call for personal accountability across all levels. - Youth Must Learn Boundaries
Engagement is welcome, but it must be guided by respect — especially in the way we speak about elders. - True Leaders Bow to Their Roots
Garba’s return wasn’t flashy. No convoys, no grandstanding — just a son among his people, sharing truth and seeking understanding.
“The heart has no bone…”
As the meeting wrapped up, Garba shared a poignant Hausa proverb:
“Zuciya bata da kashi, amma tana iya karya arziki.”
(The heart has no bone, but it can break one’s fortune.)
It was a fitting end — a reminder that pride, bitterness, and division can destroy what generations have built. The Deputy Governor’s message resonated not only with the people of Shiroro but with anyone who understands the fragile balance between leadership and loyalty, ambition and humility.
In conclusion
Comrade Yakubu Garba’s visit was not just a political mission. It was a homecoming filled with wisdom, truth, and reconciliation. In a season where politics often tears communities apart, he reminded Kuta — and all of Niger State — that healing begins when leaders listen, and progress follows when hearts are aligned.
