For some time, I have been keenly watching the political landscape of our country, observing the continuous friction that often defines the relationship between state executives. However, the unique and deeply inspiring dynamic in Borno State caught my attention. In a sea of political chaos, seeing a template that actually works compelled me to analyze and write on it.
The political partnership between Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and his Deputy, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur, stands as a beacon of stability in contemporary Nigerian politics. While many states frequently experience friction, bitter rivalries, and eventual impeachments, Borno stands out as an exemplary model. This is due entirely to the mutual respect, unwavering trust, and shared vision between these two leaders.
A Foundation of Absolute Loyalty
A core pillar of this exceptional bond is the loyalty they share. Hon. Kadafur has consistently demonstrated complete reliability, while Governor Zulum has shown a level of faith in his deputy that is rare among executives. This trust is not merely verbal. It has repeatedly manifested in the seamless, legal transmission of power. On multiple occasions, Governor Zulum has legally transmitted full constitutional powers to Kadafur to serve as Acting Governor, a practice that remains a rare anomaly in Nigerian political culture.
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Empowered by this backing, Hon. Kadafur has described himself as Nigeria’s most empowered deputy governor. This is a direct result of Governor Zulum delegating high-level state functions and complex decision-making tasks, allowing his deputy to actively steer governance rather than remaining on the sidelines.
Leadership Beyond Ego
Commending Governor Zulum’s leadership is both necessary and well-deserved. It takes a leader of immense security and humility to empower a deputy so completely in a landscape often dominated by ego. By prioritizing the collective progress of Borno over personal dominance, Zulum’s inclusive style has nurtured this synergy. His governance is not a performance; it is a sincere blueprint for sustainable nation-building.
Equally deserving of praise is the maturity exhibited by Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur. Navigating the role of a deputy requires extraordinary emotional intelligence. Rather than using his delegated powers to build a rival power bloc, Kadafur’s conduct has been defined by absolute fidelity and administrative competence. His refusal to be swayed by external political instigations shows that he places the peace of Borno State far above personal ambition.
The Contrast of Friction
In stark contrast, the history of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic is littered with the debris of chaotic governor-deputy relationships. From the protracted public feuds in Edo State to the paralyzing mistrust that rocked Ondo State, these rivalries often turn Government Houses into battlegrounds. In states like Zamfara, Kogi, and Kano, we have witnessed how the “spare tyre” syndrome creates an atmosphere of suspicion. The result is always the same: governance suffers and the electorate bears the brunt of a distracted executive.
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In Borno, this cordiality has saved the state from such distractions. Both leaders have successfully blended their capacities to drive the recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation agenda following years of insurgency.
A Symbolic Handover of Trust
The depth of this relationship was captured in a poignant, unscripted moment just yesterday. Upon their return from Abuja, while presenting Mustapha Gubio, the anointed APC governorship candidate, to the crowd at the Government House, Governor Zulum turned to his deputy and uttered a simple, heartfelt prayer: “God bless you.”
In the high-stakes world of Nigerian politics, especially during the sensitive period of choosing a successor, such a public and spontaneous display of gratitude and unity speaks volumes. It signifies that the transition process is not being used as a wedge to divide the executive, but rather as a collaborative step toward the future of the state.
As political actors across the country begin to position themselves for the 2027 transition, the Zulum-Kadafur bond serves as the gold standard. It proves that when leaders put the people first and banish the insecurities of the “spare tyre” syndrome, governance doesn’t just function, it thrives.
Written by Abubakar M. Kareto, a Public Affairs Analyst.
Email: amkareto@gmail.com
