Shekarau Celebrates 70th Birthday,Says “Politics Is My Religion”
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Former Governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has celebrated his 70th birthday anniversary with a declaration to remain in politics for life, saying politics is his religion.
Shekarau made the declaration on Wednesday while addressing a press conference as part of activities marking his 70th birthday anniversary at his Mundubawa residence in Kano.
“My politics is my religion and my religion is my politics.I will remain in the political arena for life,and I am not going to check out,” the former Minister of Education said.
He, therefore,urged citizens to participate in the political process to ensure the emergence of credible leadership.
“It is incumbent upon every citizen to contribute and participate in the political process to ensure the emergence of credible leadership;to ensure the installation of trusted and credible leaders.
“And since the only way we establish and get credible leaders is through the political process,then politics and the process of producing leaders have become a religious duty,hence my argument that religiously I believe that participating in the process of producing credible leadership is a must,” he said.
Shekarau then thanked Allah immensely for enabling him to attain the age of 70 years on earth.
“I am forever grateful to Almighty Allah for the gift of life, health, and the opportunity to serve humanity in various capacities,”
“I also owe an eternal debt of gratitude to my late parents, who trained me with discipline, humility, and fear of God. Whatever I am today, I owe it to the values they instilled in me,” he said.
The two-term Governor of Kano State
also thanked his brothers, sisters, immediate family members, classmates, friends, political associates, supporters, and admirers for their unwavering love and support over the years,and prayed Allah to reward them abundantly.
Shekarau then emphasized the importance of service, honesty and leadership by example, which he said are essential for the progress of the society, and urged leaders at all levels to prioritize the welfare of the people, uphold justice and govern with fear of Allah.
“Leadership is a trust from Allah. It is not about privilege or power, but about responsibility. We must serve with fairness, compassion, and accountability,” the celebrant added.