Leadership by Merit, Not Tribe: Sage’s Call to Adamawa Constituents

By Tgnews

In a passionate appeal for peace and unity, progress and development, a revered community sage on Saturday called on the people of Maiha/Mubi North/Mubi South Federal Constituency of Adamawa state to reject the pull of tribal politics and instead embrace issue-based, inclusive leadership built on proven competence and service, ahead of 2027 election.

Reducing politics to ethnic affiliation, envy, or jealousy risks undermining the constituency’s growing gains at the national level

The sage, speaking amidst growing political rhetoric laced with ethnic undertones, cautioned against what he described as a “desperate, divisive tactic” employed by some political actors seeking to dislodge the current representative, Hon. Ja’far Abubakar Magaji (a.k.a. Haske), through sentiment rather than substance.

The man with wisdom warned that reducing politics to ethnic affiliation, envy, or jealousy risks undermining the constituency’s growing gains at the national level.

He said: “We must resist the temptation of being swayed by shallow emotional appeals.

“Leadership should be judged by vision, performance, and dedication—not by tribe or clan.”

Hon. Magaji, who currently represents the constituency in the 10th National Assembly and served in the 9th as well, is credited with significant legislative contributions, including sponsoring the bills for the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Mubi, and the College of Nursing, Maiha.

We must resist the temptation of being swayed by shallow emotional appeals

Haske’s tenure has also seen numerous empowerment programs targeted at youth, women, the elderly, and students—efforts praised for bringing tangible development to the region.

“Other regions that continuously re-elect performing lawmakers have reaped the long-term benefits of continuity.

“We must learn from them, not fall into the trap of ‘change-for-change’s sake,’ especially when such change is driven by envy and not better alternatives.

“To the electorate, his message was clear: Don’t let political deception erode your memory or values. Don’t mortgage your conscience. Ethnic politics can’t deliver effective governance. Only experience, integrity, and vision can,” the sage noted.

Don’t let political deception erode your memory or values

The sage’s call was not only a defense of Magaji’s record but a broader warning against the perils of identity politics and a rallying cry for a more enlightened, development-focused electorate.