By Ibrahim Sheriff (Gold)
An historic moment unfolded on Thursday, 29th August, 2024, as His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alh. Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, announced Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON of Kwara State, who doubles as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), as the new Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate.
The prestigious title, according to the Emir, is a testament to the governor’s outstanding leadership, achievements and contribution to the Emirate and State, which has left indelible marks on the State.
The announcement, which was met with wild jubilation and has since been a leading topic of discussion on various media platforms, with many praising the Emir’s decision.
Historically, the prestigious title of Sardauna is originated from Sokoto, the Headquarters of the Islamic Caliphate in Northern Nigeria. The title of Sardauna is the highest and most respected, after the Sultan.
Literally, Sardauna means Prime Minister, Leader of the princes and Commander of the Sultanate Armed Forces. It symbolizes courage, popularity, and bravery, making it a fitting honor for Governor AbdulRazaq, who espouses all aforementioned.
The title of Sardauna is associated with and popularised by the legendary sage, Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, who left indelible marks on the socio-political sphere of Northern Nigeria and Nigeria as a whole.
He was a visionary leader who championed the cause of Northern Nigeria and played pivotal roles in the country’s independence and first Republic.
Thus, the title is reserved for individuals who demonstrates exceptional character, widespread recognition, and significant influence, mirroring the qualities of the original title holders.
Although Sir Ahmadu Bello, the late Sardauna of Sokoto, had a royal lineage as the son of a Sultan, Governor AbdulRazaq also has a notable heritage. He is one of the heirs of the late Barrister AGF AbdulRazaq, a founding father of federalism and State creation in Nigeria. Barrister AbdulRazaq shared a common political ideology with Sir Ahmadu Bello, being a member of the Northern People’s Congress.
Similar to Sir Ahmadu Bello’s passion for Northern Nigeria, the late Mutawali of Ilorin, Barrister AGF AbdulRazaq, played a crucial role in shaping Kwara State. He seconded the historic motion moved by Chief J.S. Olawoyin, the late Asiwaju of Offa, which led to the division of the former Northern Region into states. This move was geared towards bringing governance closer to the people and address the concerns of minority tribes.
Through his efforts, Barrister AbdulRazaq contributed significantly to building Kwara State from its inception.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s conferment with this title is apt, given his exemplary leadership and commitment to sustainable development in Kwara State. Despite initial criticisms, his second term has shown remarkable progress, defying the norm of Nigerian politics. His administration has implemented various projects and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Kwarans, from Infrastructural development to Education and Healthcare to mention but a few.
While arguments may be rife about the traditional superiority of the new title of the Governor in Ilorin Emirate, it is clearly unarguable by anyone, the unmatched celebration, greatness and adoration that the title ‘Sardauna’ depicts to an average Nigerian, not just the northerners, makes it a basis for a generalized intrinsic value and superiority in such comparative context.
The Sardauna title bestowed upon Governor AbdulRazaq is a traditional badge that attests to his exhibition of the late Sardauna of Sokoto’s traits in his governance approach, commitment to development, and wellbeing of Kwarans.
Indeed, it is a recognition of his unwavering dedication to the people of Kwara State and his unrelenting efforts to transform the state into a hub of prosperity and growth.
The conferment of the Sardauna title on Governor AbdulRazaq, which HRH, Mai Martaba rightly described as a reward for the Governor’s exemplary leadership is not just a traditional title but a well-deserved honor that reflects his outstanding leadership and commitment to the people of Kwara State. It is a testament to his ability to inspire and unite, and a reminder that true leadership is about serving others and leaving a lasting legacy.
Ibrahim Sheriff is the Editor of Fresh Insight Newspaper.
