Former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, has commended Adewole Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), describing him as a leader with a shared vision for Nigeria’s progress and insisting that great minds think alike despite party differences.
Shekarau made the remarks whenAdebayo paid him a condolence visit following the death of his elder brother.
Recounting the origins of their relationship, Shekarau said he first encountered Adebayo during a televised interview in the build-up to the presidential election.
He said he was struck by Adebayo’s articulation of national issues and policy direction.
“My first interaction with him was on television. I watched his interview during the presidential race and appreciated all that he enunciated,” Shekarau said.
He added that his admiration led him to seek contact through Adebayo’s associates.
“I sought his number and put a call through to him. He wanted to come, but I insisted that I must be the one to visit him,” he said.
According to the former governor, their subsequent meeting confirmed a convergence of ideas and aspirations for the country.
“We exchanged ideas and discovered we share the same vision for this dear country called Nigeria. I want to assure you that great minds think alike,” he said.
Shekarau stressed that party affiliation should not eclipse the broader objective of national development. While acknowledging that they belong to different political platforms, he described political parties as a structural necessity within Nigeria’s democratic system.
“We may be in different political parties for now, but I have always said publicly that political parties are necessary evils. If there were other credible ways of identifying leadership, many people would have taken that route,” he said.
He maintained that, given the prevailing political framework, parties remain the principal vehicle for organising like-minded individuals in pursuit of leadership.
“As long as political parties are our constraint, we must work within them and identify people of like minds,” Shekarau added.
Offering prayers for the country, he expressed hope for sustained peace and growth, urging Nigerians to support credible leaders irrespective of party lines.
“I pray Nigeria continues to grow and have peace. May Allah grant us credible leadership to move the country forward.
“Anybody who wants to serve humanity, even if it is under the Shetland Party, once we are convinced he means well, we will support him,” he said.
Adebayo’s visit formed part of efforts to commiserate with Shekarau and his family during their period of mourning.