By Rayyanu Bala

In recent political discourse within our state, much has been said about Senator Aliyu Wadada’s stance on zoning. Some have interpreted his comments to mean that he rejects the idea of zoning entirely. However, a closer look at his political philosophy shows that Senator Wadada believes in the principle of zoning but not as an absolute determinant of leadership. To him, zoning should guide inclusion, not restrict ambition.

Senator Wadada’s statement that “zoning is not part and way of my politics” should not be misconstrued as opposition to equity or fairness. Rather, it reflects his belief that while zoning is an important tool for balancing representation, democracy must remain open for every qualified individual to aspire for leadership positions. Politics, after all, thrives on competition, ideas, and the freedom to choose not on exclusion.

History itself supports this position. In 1999, when Abdullahi Adamu contested for the governorship, aspirants from other zones also participated. Similarly, during Aliyu Akwe Doma’s time, others from different zones contested alongside him. Even in 2019, when Governor Tanko Al-Makura reportedly zoned the governorship to the Northern zone, aspirants from other zones including Senator Wadada from the Western zone still offered themselves for service. This demonstrates that zoning has always existed alongside democratic contestation, not in place of it.

Zoning, therefore, should be seen as a framework for fairness, not a barrier to participation. Senator Wadada recognizes that power rotation promotes inclusion and unity, but he also insists that the people should have the ultimate right to decide who leads them. His belief reflects the dynamism of life that societies evolve, and leadership should emerge from merit, capacity, and popular will, not solely from geographic considerations.

It is, therefore, unfair to label Senator Wadada as anti-zoning. Rather, his position is rooted in democratic maturity that while zoning is good and should be respected, it should not become a rigid rule that stifles competition or denies competent individuals the opportunity to serve.

As our politics grows, we must balance equity with openness. Senator Wadada’s view challenges us to think beyond sentiment and to build a system where zoning ensures inclusion, but democracy ensures choice. In the end, the people’s mandate not zoning alone should determine leadership.