Shekarau lauds Adebayo’s vision, says party lines shouldn’t divide like minds
Henry Nnaemeka
Former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, has commended the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Adewole Adebayo, describing him as a like-minded patriot committed to Nigeria’s progress.
Shekarau spoke while receiving Adebayo, who paid him a condolence visit over the death of his elder brother.
The former governor recalled that his first encounter with Adebayo was through a televised interview during the presidential campaign season, noting that he was impressed by his articulation of national issues and policy direction.
“My first interaction with him was on television. I watched his interview during the presidential race and appreciated all that he enunciated,” Shekarau said.
He explained that the impression prompted him to initiate contact through mutual associates.
“I sought his number and put a call through to him. He wanted to come, but I insisted that I must be the one to visit him,” he said.
According to Shekarau, their subsequent meeting revealed a shared aspirations for the country’s future.
“We exchanged ideas and discovered we share the same vision for this dear country called Nigeria. I want to assure you that great minds think alike,” he added.
While acknowledging that both men belong to different political parties, Shekarau maintained that partisan affiliations should not eclipse the broader objective of national development.
“We may be in different political parties for now, but I have always said publicly that political parties are necessary evils. If there were other credible ways of identifying leadership, many people would have taken that route,” he said.
He noted that given Nigeria’s political structure, parties remain the framework through which individuals with similar convictions can mobilise for leadership.
“As long as political parties are our constraint, we must work within them and identify people of like minds,” he stated.
Shekarau also prayed for peace and progress in the country, urging Nigerians to support credible leaders irrespective of party platforms.
“I pray Nigeria continues to grow and have peace. May Allah grant us credible leadership to move the country forward. Anybody who wants to serve humanity — even if it is under the Shetland Party — once we are convinced he means well, we will support him,” he said.
Adebayo’s visit formed part of efforts to commiserate with Shekarau and his family during their bereavement.
