By Mohammed Babagana Abubakar
Email: aunodigitalabuba@gmail.com
March 15, 2026
The seat of the Deputy Governor is not a private chair, it is a public trust. In the democratic architecture of Nigeria, the State Executive Council (Exco) meeting represents the engine room of progress the place where policies are debated, budgets are scrutinized, and the future of the state is forged.
When that engine room is ignored, it isn’t just a political statement; it is a service delivery failure.
Every elected official in Kano State begins their journey by holding a Holy Book and reciting the Oath of Office. In those solemn moments, they promise to serve the well being of the people and to perform their duties faithfully and in accordance with the Constitution.
There is no mention of a Red Cap, a movement, or a singular leader in that oath. The commitment is to the 15 million citizens of Kano State, regardless of their political leanings.
The Kwankwasiyya movement is undoubtedly a significant political force, but there must be a clear boundary between Group Loyalty and Constitutional Duty.
Group Loyalty is for the campaign trail.
Constitutional Duty is for the Government House.
When the Deputy Governor chooses to stay away from the Exco meeting the very heart of state administration to signal loyalty to a political faction, he effectively tells the people of Kano that their needs come second to party internal dynamics.
The people of Kano are facing real time challenges, economic shifts, educational needs, and infrastructural demands. These issues require a full cabinet, working in synergy. An empty seat at the Exco table is a silent message to the electorate.Your concerns can wait, my political affiliations cannot.
This is a betrayal of the confidence of the masses. The mandate given at the polls was for governance, not for perpetual politicking. True leadership is shown when a man can distinguish between his role as a party member and his duty as a servant of the state.
Kano State has a history of political vibrancy, but it also has a history of demanding accountability. The Deputy Governor must decide: is he a servant of the Constitution, or a servant of a faction?
The Red Cap may be a symbol of identity, but the Oath of Office is a bond of blood and honor with the people. It is time to return to the table, honor the mandate, and put the interests of Kano residents above the interests of any political group.
