MOHAMMED KABIRU HARUNA: THE LEADER KOGI NEEDS

Since the death of former Kogi State Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, there has been a yawning vacuum in the political firmament of the Confluence state. Audu was a phenomenon when he was alive; his clout transcended political parties and his influence was felt throughout the length and breadth of the state. Little wonder why people in the state see his departure on the eve of his coronation as the state helmsman as a huge loss not only to his immediate family but to the entire Kogi State.

However, nature does not permit a vacuum; no matter what happens, life goes on and in the process, other leaders will emerge.

This is what seems to be evolving in the state and political family of Prince Audu. Alhaji Mohammed Kabiru Haruna, the chairman of Saraha Homes Ltd is admirably coming up strongly to fill the lacuna created by Audu’s exit.

It was Jawaharlal Nehru who once said that “failure comes only when we forget our ideals and objectives and principles.” This statement is apt about our dear state, Kogi. The real problem with the state is that of leadership. We as a people need to see Kogi State as our own instead of the labyrinthine entity for which the present leadership of the state has made it to be known for. We need a leader that can translate people’s dreams into reality. Kogi State needs reforms in all its ramifications. Apart from the fact that reforms are always sporadic and a ceaseless exercise which are often dictated by the prevailing challenges and development within and without the state, and within its leadership itself, the fact remains that our present leadership has failed to meet the expectations of the people. The proper values and integrity of a leader consists in unity of vision, patriotism, respect for the norms of the people and the rule of law. That is the quality of leadership Kogi State needs now and that leader is Alhaji Mohammed Kabiru Haruna. A philanthropist who understands the problem of the state, Haruna is but a quintessential estate developer who places premium on human happiness. He has made large impact in his chosen career and looking at the horizon. His Igala people perceive him as the possible replacement for the late Audu. Alhaji Haruna contribution to nation- building was fully recognised through the conferment of so many awards from within and outside the country. A detribalised Nigerian who has established himself as a disciplined, focused and one who can manage people and resources effectively. Besides, he has employed hundred of youths to earn a living through his private ventures as a developer and above all, he has a foundation that is solely meant to assist women, particularly widows and indigent students to further their education.

Abdulmajeed Musa, Abuja