Isiyaku Ahmed
A public affairs commentator, Dr. Auwalu Anwar, has urged Nigerians to vote based on the competence, integrity, and track record of individual candidates in the upcoming 2027 general elections rather than blindly supporting political parties.
He made the call on Saturday at the Aminu Kano Center for Democratic Studies, also known as Mambayya House, Kano, during a public discussion marking the 76th anniversary of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and the 9th edition of the annual NEPU Day.
The discussion, organized around the theme, “Kwadayi Mabudin Wahala: Waiwaye akan Aikin NEPU Da Darussa Don Zaben 2027” (Ambition is the Key to Trouble: Reflections on NEPU’s Legacy and Lessons for the 2027 Elections), examined the relevance of NEPU’s political philosophy to contemporary Nigeria.
Dr. Anwar said meaningful personal and societal transformation begins with a clear ideology, sincerity of purpose and commitment to positive change.
He argued that individuals have the capacity to overcome social and personal limitations when guided by sound principles, a well-defined vision and a practical course of action.
According to him, self-emancipation requires more than personal conviction, stressing the need for individuals to associate with like-minded people and build communities of reformers capable of translating ideals into concrete action.
“Human beings are capable of emancipating themselves if they have an ideology guiding their actions, if they associate with people who share similar values, and if they remain sincere, dedicated, selfless and committed to their goals,” he said.
Dr. Anwar identified sincerity, dedication, selflessness and unwavering commitment as essential qualities for individuals seeking to contribute meaningfully to society.
He, however, noted that ideology and good intentions alone were insufficient, stressing that individuals and groups must develop clear strategies for achieving their objectives.
Vote for Individuals, Not Party Labels
Turning to the 2027 elections, Anwar urged voters to move beyond automatic loyalty to political parties and critically examine the candidates presented for elective positions.
Dr. Anwar cautioned against voting for candidates simply because they belong to a particular political party, arguing that parties comprise individuals with different levels of competence, integrity and commitment to public service.
“In the coming elections, voters should not vote for parties alone; they should vote for individuals seeking elective offices. It is wrong to support every candidate of a party from top to bottom without evaluating them,” he said.
He maintained that no political party was without shortcomings, urging voters to assess candidates across party lines and select those they consider most credible, sincere and capable of delivering good governance.
Dr. Anwar called on citizens to scrutinize the character, integrity, competence and track records of candidates before casting their ballots.
According to him, informed and issue-based voting is critical to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring the emergence of leaders committed to public service and national development.
Women Must Have Greater Political Space — Gwaram
Also speaking at the event, Hajiya Maryam Ado Gwaram called for greater opportunities for women to participate in leadership and decision-making at all levels of governance.
Hajia Maryam, the eldest daughter of the late Babba Dangundi, recalled NEPU’s historic contribution to the struggle for the emancipation of the common man, saying the movement was founded on principles of justice, equality and popular participation.
She argued that the ideals that inspired NEPU’s early struggles should not remain confined to history but should be translated into contemporary political action.
According to her, greater inclusion of women in leadership is necessary for building an equitable society and strengthening democratic governance.
Hajia Maryam said women should be given meaningful opportunities to participate in political leadership, policy formulation, and decision-making processes.
NEPU’s Ideals Still Relevant – Dr. Muhammed
In an interview after the event, the Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, Professor Haruna Musa, represented by the Director of the Centre, Professor Habu Mohammed, said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on NEPU’s historical contributions and the continuing struggle for democratic values.
He said political freedom should not be viewed as an achievement that ends with independence or the conduct of elections.
According to him, democracy requires continuous defence of accountability, social justice, citizens’ rights and responsible governance.
The event attracted a broad cross-section of participants, reflecting the diverse interest in the historical and contemporary relevance of NEPU’s ideals.
Those in attendance included politicians, political party leaders, civil servants, academics, students, traders, media professionals and other members of the public.
