By Rayyanu Bala

The kind of political understanding between Kashim Shettima and Babagana Zulum can best be described as exemplary. As a mentor to Zulum, Shettima has given him the freedom to govern Borno State without interference. Since the advent of democracy in Nigeria, history has rarely recorded a case where a mentor allows a mentee to govern with such independence as Shettima has granted Zulum.
We all know that politics in Nigeria thrives on power struggles as well as loyalty tests. It is against this backdrop that the unfolding scenario in Borno State offers an interesting, and perhaps refreshing, perspective.
At the center of it are Governor Babagana Zulum and his long-time political mentor, Vice President Kashim Shettima. Reports suggest that both men initially backed different individuals to succeed Zulum.
Shettima stood in support of Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, while Babagana backed Lawan Abba Wakilbe.
In many political settings, such divergence could easily spiral into a full-blown rift marked by factions, sabotage, and public tension.
But that is not how the Borno story played out.
Instead, what emerged was restraint and maturity. The Vice President, despite his towering influence and foundational role in Zulum’s political rise, stepped back and allowed the sitting governor to have the final say. This action is rare in Nigerian politics. Shettima has indeed demonstrated sportsmanship.
Despite being instrumental in shaping Zulum’s political journey, even handing over the reins of leadership in Borno, Shettima did not insist on determining Zulum’s successor. In many cases, such political “godfathers” maintain a tight grip on succession decisions. However, Shettima allowed Zulum to have his say and his way.
Now, contrast this with the situation in Nasarawa State, where similar dynamics are beginning to surface around Governor Abdullahi Sule. There are those who believe they played a role in his emergence and may feel entitled to shape what comes next. That is a familiar script in Nigerian politics.
Perhaps this is where the lesson lies.
If the Borno example teaches anything, it is that political legacy is not just about who you bring into power, but how you allow power to evolve afterward. True leadership sometimes means stepping aside, even when you have the influence to insist otherwise. It is about knowing when to guide and when to let go.
For stakeholders in Nasarawa, looking up to figures like the Vice President should serve as a lesson in sportsmanship and the importance of prioritizing stability over personal preference.
In the end, politics should not be only about power; it must also be a test of character.