By our correspondent

In a candid address to members of the Nasarawa Sports Writers Association, Senator Wadada shared his deep concerns about the growing influence of religion and ethnicity in Nigerian politics. His words reflect not just the current political landscape, but also the complexities surrounding it, shedding light on a system he believes has become increasingly manipulative and divisive.

Senator Wadada, Who is the leading contender in the 2027 governorship race in Nasarawa State began by emphasizing the mission of his political journey: not to attack, undermine, or compete with anyone, but to educate. “Our role is to educate the electorate, who are often exploited due to illiteracy and manipulated through ethnic and religious sentiments,” he stated.

His comments are rooted in the recognition that a large portion of Nigeria’s electorate is vulnerable. “The average electorate in Nigeria is taken for granted,” he continued. “They are not literate, maybe in the aspect of Western education. They are easily manipulated, which is why religion and ethnicity are all taking front rows today in our politics.”

At the heart of Wadada’s message is the issue of political opportunism. He is unequivocal about his belief that many politicians exploit religion and ethnicity to gain power. These “opportunists,” as he calls them, have little to offer beyond empty promises. Instead of focusing on real solutions to the nation’s pressing problems, they stir divisive sentiments that often distract voters from more substantive issues.

Wadada points out the unfortunate pattern where politicians often use religion and ethnicity as tools of division: “Moses didn’t do it for you because you are a Muslim,” they might say. Or, “Musa didn’t do it because you are a Christian.” These sentiments further deepen the rifts within communities and divert attention from the true priorities of governance.

For Senator Wadada, the focus should be on practical solutions—on offering tangible results and addressing the needs of the people. He challenges those in power to prove their worth with their actions, not just their words. “Tell us what you have in your kitty for the people,” he implored. “It is not just enough to make promises. Where are you coming from? What are your antecedents? Because your antecedents should be able to convince us about what you have in your kitty.”

Senator Wadada’s call for integrity and accountability in politics is clear. He compares political leaders to someone offering a gift—they must first present themselves well, and demonstrate their ability to deliver on their promises. “If you want to give me a shirt, you must also come well dressed,” he said. “You can’t make empty promises merely because you want votes from the electorate.”

What sets Senator Wadada apart is his approach to power. Rather than displaying desperation or making lofty, unfounded promises, he remains grounded in the belief that true power belongs to God. “Power belongs to God,” he affirmed. “He gives it to whosoever He wishes, and at the time, He wishes.”

This humility underpins his political philosophy, which is centered not on personal ambition, but on educating and enlightening the people. For him, politics is a platform for creating knowledge, for informing the electorate about the issues that matter, and for empowering them to make informed decisions. “My being in politics is nothing other than to find the avenues that I could leverage on to educate and enlighten my people,” Wadada said, highlighting that his political journey is about more than just holding office—it’s about fostering long-term positive change.

His position serves as both a reflection of the current state of Nigerian politics and a call for a new direction. In a time when divisive rhetoric is often used to manipulate voters, Senator Wadada’s focus on education, integrity, and transparency offers a refreshing alternative. It’s a reminder that the future of Nigeria’s democracy lies in informed citizens, leaders who deliver on their promises, and a political culture that prioritizes unity over division.

Senator Wadada’s message is one of hope—a call to move beyond the distractions of religion and ethnicity, and to focus on building a more educated and enlightened electorate that can demand better from those in power. Only then, he argues, will Nigeria be able to break free from the chains of exploitation and manipulation that have plagued its political landscape for far too long.