According to The Sun, Dr. Muttaqa Rabe Darma, a seasoned politician and former government official, has raised concerns about the increasing monetization of politics in Nigeria.
Having held key positions such as the Commissioner for Women Affairs and later Works and Rural Development under the administration of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who was then the governor of Katsina State, Darma reflects on the challenges of political leadership in the current Nigerian landscape.
His insights stem from a long career in public service, where he has observed firsthand the evolving dynamics of political power.
Darma’s political journey has been marked by significant roles, including serving as the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) under President Yar’Adua. His affiliation with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the past eventually led to a shift in his political alignment, as he joined the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
In the 2023 general elections, he ran as the governorship candidate’s running mate, partnering with Nura Khalil. Through these experiences, Darma has gained a unique perspective on the inner workings of Nigerian politics, particularly the role of financial resources in determining leadership opportunities.
In his reflection, Darma expressed dismay over how deeply money has infiltrated the political process in Nigeria. According to him, the current political environment heavily favors those with substantial financial resources, making it nearly impossible for individuals without significant monetary backing to attain leadership positions.
This, he suggests, has created a barrier for capable leaders who may lack the financial means to compete effectively in the political arena.
Darma also shared his reflections on his time working with the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, whom he described as a leader of unparalleled humility and integrity.
He recounted his experience serving as a commissioner under Yar’Adua’s governorship in Katsina State, as well as his tenure as Executive Secretary of the PTDF during Yar’Adua’s presidency.
These roles, he noted, provided him with valuable lessons in leadership, particularly the importance of humility and service to the people, which Yar’Adua exemplified throughout his career.
Comparing his own circumstances to that of the late President, Darma highlighted the stark difference in their lifestyles, despite his own financial success. He pointed out that his own house is significantly larger than Yar’Adua’s, yet the late President’s humility remained unmatched. This, he believes, is a testament to Yar’Adua’s character and a critical lesson in the importance of modesty and selflessness in leadership.
He said: Yar’Adua was God-sent to Nigeria. I was a commissioner under him when he was a governor. I was Executive Secretary for the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) still under his government. My house is five times bigger than Yar’Adua’s house. His humility is incomparable to anybody’s in this country…..Viêw_ More
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