Reflecting on the journey from the Second Republic to the present day, one can’t help but notice the stark contrasts in leadership. It’s akin to comparing blindness and deafness to true visionary leadership.
Late Tatari Ali’s administration was defined by a strong sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to serving the people. Unlike the present leadership, which often seems directionless, short-sighted, and riddled with corruption, Tatari Ali’s tenure was a beacon of effective governance.
The legacy of late Tatari Ali remains a cornerstone in the history of Bauchi State, touching every aspect of life with fairness and inclusivity. In education, his administration laid the foundation for future growth, exemplified by the state university, which was conceived under his guidance.
Infrastructure development during his time was centred on the people’s needs, and the healthcare sector was comprehensively supported, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the well-being of the populace to the extent of available resources.
The secret behind these monumental achievements is not difficult to decipher—it lies in the sincerity of intentions, a clear vision of the bigger picture, and the strategic placement of competent individuals in key positions to execute that vision effectively.
In stark contrast, the current leadership seems devoid of vision and genuine intent to serve the public. Instead, it leans heavily towards corruption and self-serving practices.
Positions are filled by incompetent individuals who contribute little to the state’s progress, and projects are often initiated not for the public good but for personal gain.
If democracy were a sentient being, subjected to the abuse it endures today, it would likely flee, never to return. Part of the blame, however, may rest with the public, who seem to prioritize physical projects like road and building construction, often overlooking the importance of programs that don’t provide immediate, visible results.
This misprioritization could be attributed to the news media’s constant coverage of these projects, leading the government to focus on them as a means to justify embezzlement.
When comparing early governments with the current crop of leadership, sincerity of intention and credible leadership stand out as crucial factors. The current leadership represents the antithesis of its predecessors, lacking both the genuine intention to serve and a people-focused approach.
Late Abubakar Tatari Ali was known for his unwavering commitment to selecting the most capable individuals for positions within his government. He understood that the success of his administration hinged on the quality of his team, and he never compromised on this standard.
His leadership exemplified the principle that a government’s effectiveness is a direct reflection of the abilities and integrity of those at its helm. Without a strong, capable and synergized team, no government can transcend the limitations of its leaders, and the results will inevitably suffer.
Tatari Ali’s legacy serves as a timeless reminder that excellence in leadership starts with choosing the right people for the right roles, ensuring that the collective vision is both realized and sustained.
The Local Government advertisement slogan is “Good thinking, good products.”
