Shekarau, Yakasai, others create group to revive North’s political, economic status

A group of prominent political leaders from the North has formed the League of Northern Democrats, revealing that it will convene a strategic summit to revive the region’s political and economic status in Nigeria.

Declaring its intention to unite and reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape, the group further revealed that its immediate priority is the development of Northern Nigeria, pointing out that it does not represent anybody’s interest.

The former governor of Kano State, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, is the interim chairman of the 226-member group, which comprises former governors, federal lawmakers, and businessmen. Umar Ardo is the convener, and Emmanuel Jime is the interim Secretary.

Other prominent and top members of the group besides Shekarau and Ardo, include Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, Senator Ibrahim Ida, PhD, CON (Wazirin Katsina); Kabir Tafida (Sarki Fadan Sokoto); Falalu Bello; ⁠Dr. Jamilu Isyaka Gwamna (Sardauna Gombe); Emmanuel Jime ⁠and Mohammed Kumalia.

Others are ⁠Malam Salihu Lukman, Usman Sarki, ⁠Dallaji Noah, ⁠Prof. Usman Yusuf, Muktari Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Aminu Shehu Shagari, and Murtala Shehu Yar’adua (Tafidan Katsina), among others.

At the end of the meeting held at the Yar’adua Centre in Abuja, a communique issued read, “The LND resolved to prioritise the political unity of Northern Nigeria.

“Recognising the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our ranks, we are committed to fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity. This unity will be the foundation for our efforts to reposition the North, as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape.”

They also resolved to write to critical stakeholders in Northern Nigeria to woo their support and participation in the movement.

Among those to reach out to are all former Heads of State, all former and serving vice presidents, former Senate presidents, former Speakers of the House of Representatives, and former Chief Justices.

The rest are former Service Chiefs, Inspectors-General of Police, Comptrollers-General of Customs, Immigration, and Prisons; key distinguished elder statesmen, businessmen and employers of labour, trade unions and other relevant entities.

According to the group, the involvement of these stakeholders is crucial to the growth and success of its mission.