By way of introduction, democracy is the government of the people, for the people, and by the people. Indeed, this is the commonest and the most widely accepted meaning of democracy. Similarly, democracy is a system of government where power is held by the people. Under it, the citizens participate through voting in elections, and the leaders are elected to represent the people and make decisions.
By Bashir Rabe Mani
The crux of the above is that in a democracy, the major preoccupation is service to the people. Put succinctly, under democracy, the people—and/or the electorate—hold sway as they own the mandate; they only lend it to their trusted representatives via the modus operandi of the ballot boxes.
In Nigeria, from 1999 to date, the country has successfully transitioned from military rule to democracy on May 29, 1999, with Olusegun Obasanjo becoming the democratically elected President. Since then, Nigeria has held several elections, with changes in ruling parties.
In Sokoto State, just like in other parts of the country, democracy has been trudging on from 1999 to date, with elected representatives at all levels—from Councillors to Governor. Indeed, this darling of all climes, democracy, has thrived to greater heights.
In fact, to further drive the indispensable point home, democracy was at its best in Sokoto State when the incumbent Senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District, Distinguished Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, held sway.
His was a two-term tenure that hugely transformed Sokoto State into the envy of its contemporaries—not only in Nigeria but beyond the shores of this country.
From 2007 to 2015, the trajectory in Sokoto State was that of development—and nothing short of that. He had successfully, loyally, patriotically, and piously discharged his God-given mandates as Governor, to the admiration of even his worst critics.
His administration was truly epochal, and he left indelible and lasting legacies that are now being emulated by the incumbent Governor of the State, His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, FCNA—the political godson of Wamakko, under his noble tutelage and guidance.
The above laconic outline is just to introduce the man of the people and Senator-without-borders, Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, the Sarkin Yamman Sokoto. He is a man who never tires of attending to the daily needs of his immediate constituents, the people of Sokoto, and indeed other Nigerians.
This workaholic Senator knows nothing except tireless and invaluable service to the people of the state and humanity in general.
Although he is a man who needs no introduction—as his footprints abound across the state, Nigeria, Africa, and the world—Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko is a seasoned Nigerian politician with a long history of public service.
This blue-blooded, astute, and iconic administrator par excellence was born great, born into greatness, and has remained great from cradle to now. This is nothing short of the inevitable timetable of divinity, which no mere fallible mortal can alter.
Born on March 1, 1953, in Wamakko, Sokoto State, he earned a Teachers’ Certificate from Sokoto Teachers’ College (1968–1972). He also obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh, USA (1980). Since then, he has continued to pursue both Western and Islamic education to date.
From a middle-level civil servant, he steadily rose to the enviable rank of Permanent Secretary, with an unblemished record of public service—from Local Government Chairman to Governor, and now Senator, with an ever-soaring personality. He has remained pious, charismatic, and honest—and only sleeps when no one who comes to him goes to sleep hungry.
Again, as the Governor of Sokoto State, he served from 2007 to 2015, implementing development initiatives and projects that changed the political topography of the state, laced with a myriad of giant developmental strides. His administration was truly second to none in the history of the legendary Seat of the Caliphate, Sokoto State.
As a Senator, he currently represents Sokoto North Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He is focusing on legislation, constituency development, and his decades-long service to humanity.
As Deputy Governor, he diligently served under Gov. Attahiru Bafarawa from 1999 to 2006, contributing to state development and governance. He was also a dependable pillar of that administration.
As Governor, he successfully implemented various infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and buildings. He also implemented various programmes and policies aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods in Sokoto State.
On youth empowerment, he launched initiatives to empower young people with skills, education, and economic opportunities. He also, among others, tried his best to promote the religion of Islam and Islamic education in general.
The Sarkin Yakin Sokoto and member of the Muslim World League has clinched several awards, including The Sun Lifetime Achievement Award received in 2024 for his contributions to public service and development. He also boasts several honorary doctorate degrees from various Nigerian universities.
As a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, Sen. Wamakko has made significant contributions to the development of Sokoto State and the country at large. His experience and leadership have earned him recognition and respect from his peers and constituents.
It was in recognition of his extant national standing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently included him in his high-powered delegation that visited Brazil, where the President attended the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro from July 5 to 7, 2025.
This trip was part of a two-nation tour that also included a state visit to Saint Lucia, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s engagement with Caribbean nations and reinforcing South–South cooperation.
During his visit to Brazil, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The two leaders discussed global economic cooperation and development.
Before heading to Brazil, Tinubu spent six days in Saint Lucia, where he also met with Governor-General Cyril Charles and Prime Minister Philip Pierre. Their discussions focused on establishing resident diplomatic missions and reviving a maritime corridor between Nigeria and the Caribbean.
The Nigerian leader also addressed a joint session of the Saint Lucian Parliament. Tinubu referenced Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott’s “lost tribal memory” and suggested that Africa and the Caribbean could reclaim that memory through commercial partnerships.
As a major fallout of this positive international foray, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced scholarships for Saint Lucian students: Nigeria will fund full scholarships for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States to attend federal universities in Nigeria.
Tinubu, Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, and other members of the high-profile entourage triumphantly returned to Abuja on July 12, 2025, after completing visits to Saint Lucia and Brazil.
What could be more of an honour and reward for service to humanity, work, and nothing but work in the various causes of the people? Kudos to this untiring father figure to the people of Sokoto State and beyond.
To commemorate this feat achieved by Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, a forum recently described him as “The Northern Political Engineer and Coalition B2 Bomber.” It is being anchored by Hon. Sani Alhaji Yakubu, Member, House of Representatives, Gudu/Tangaza Federal Constituency (APC).
He averred, “It is now clearer than ever that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu knows and acknowledges the true political owner and master strategist of the northern region of Nigeria: Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, the Northern Political Engineer.”
According to the lawmaker, the recent invitation extended by President Tinubu to Sen. Wamakko to travel alongside him on an important foreign mission speaks volumes. He enthused, “It is more than a mere gesture of camaraderie—it is a signal that the political permutations shaping the future of Nigeria cannot be complete without Senator Wamakko’s astute input and towering influence.”
“Sen. Aliyu Wamakko stands tall as a veteran political engineer who played a decisive role in the historic formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC). It was under his courageous leadership that five formidable governors defected from the then-ruling party, tilting the political balance and paving the way for the birth of the APC.”
Hon. Sani Alhaji Yakubu added that Wamakko’s vision and strategic acumen were instrumental in building the coalition that would go on to change the course of Nigeria’s political history.
“Now, after spending two weeks abroad with the President, political observers and opposition coalitions have been thrown into disarray.
Rumblings of fear echo through their camps, as they anticipate what they term a ‘massive destruction’ of their carefully laid plans. Indeed, Sen. Wamakko’s return is expected to bring fresh momentum and new strategies that could decisively shape the emerging political narrative.”
“Sen. Wamakko’s dedication to national unity, progress, and the empowerment of the people—especially in the North—is unparalleled. His political wisdom, deep grassroots connection, and enduring loyalty to progressive causes have made him an indispensable ally to President Tinubu and a towering figure in Nigeria’s political architecture.”
“May Allah, the Almighty, guide and protect you, Baba, and grant you safe return home. We remain solidly behind you, praying for God Almighty to bless you with good health, strength, and continued wisdom as you serve our great nation.”
In another happy development, penultimate week, the Institute of Administration, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, exactly on the 7th of July, 2025, honoured His Excellency Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, CON, PhD, with a Certificate of Honour in recognition of his enduring legacy of national service, visionary leadership, and outstanding contributions to the development of the Institute.
Sen. Wamakko, former Governor of Sokoto State and current Senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District, was represented at the prestigious occasion by the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., who received the award on his behalf.
In a goodwill message conveyed through the Minister, Sen. Wamakko expressed profound gratitude to the management and leadership of Ahmadu Bello University for bestowing such a significant honour upon him.
He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to supporting the university’s mission of professionalism, academic excellence, and integrity, pledging continued collaboration with the institution to foster national development through education and public service.
The key highlight of the historic ceremony was the presentation of Certificates of Honour to selected distinguished Nigerians whose contributions have left indelible marks on the nation’s growth. Among this illustrious group, Senator Wamakko’s recognition stands as a testament to his lifelong dedication to leadership, service, and the advancement of education in Nigeria.
The Institute of Administration, ABU Zaria, remains one of Nigeria’s foremost institutions dedicated to producing leaders in public administration, governance, and policy. The conferment of this award reflects the university’s appreciation for public figures who have demonstrated exemplary service to the Nigerian people.
In the same vein, Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko has also received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Political Science from the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, in Katsina State. This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding contributions and achievements in the field of politics and public service.
Honorary doctorate degrees are awarded to individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields, demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, or public service.
These degrees are usually conferred by universities or institutions to acknowledge and honour remarkable achievements.
It is therefore now glaringly and indisputably clear that Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Sarkin Yamman Sokoto, is fast solidifying his acumen as a national leader whose pedigree is beyond Sokoto State or the North.
Mani, a journalist, is based in Kaduna-Nigeria.
