Akanbi, who spoke yesterday in Kaduna at a lecture marking the 56th anniversary of the attainment of self government of Northern Nigeria, organised by the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) also said there is so much that binds the north and other parts of the country together, adding that all that the north need to do is to ensure that it us relevant in the scheme of things.
“The north cannot and should not contemplate breaking away from Nigeria. There is so much that binds us together, all we need to do, is to ensure that we are not left behind in the scheme of things. Africa look up to us for leadership, a strong Nigeria of which the north is a formidable plank remains the hope and pride if the black race”, the former ICPC boss said.
He however decried the leadership failure in the region, saying that it would be difficult for the north to regain its lost glory unless leaders like the late Premier of the region, Sir Ahmadu Bello and Mallam Aminu Kano are produced.
He lamented that the north of today is divided along ethnic and religious lines and unless quality leadership emerges, the region will continue to be lagging behind.
“It is this leadership quality which Sir Ahmadu Bello exemplified that made us all proud to be northerners and this is what has been lacking since his demise and which tore the north apart.
“In today’s Nigeria, leaders prefer to be hero worshipped and venerated by sycophants, in Sardauna’s time that was not the case, around him were men of honour and integrity and not greedy and corrupt people who prefer to serve selfish ends”, the former ICPC boss said.
According to him, “We have reached a stage in our nation that tribalism, ethnicity, religious bigotry and corruption have become the hand maiden tools of political leaders when canvassing to be elected into political offices.” He called on northerners to unite and work for the good of all.
Source: Thisday
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