DSP’s Misplaced Priority: Mustapha Kwankwaso Was The Real Prize

DSP’s Misplaced Priority: Mustapha Kwankwaso Was The Real Prize

Abba Dukawa

In politics, defections are common; betrayal of one’s roots is not. Abba Atiku’s actions raise serious questions about judgment and loyalty, casting a shadow over the values expected of those seeking public trust.

This was not merely a politician switching parties; it was deeply personal and symbolic – a crossing of lines, not just carpets, a rejection of lineage, political heritage, and continuity.

The image of Atiku Abubakar’s son pledging loyalty to Tinubu was unsettling, with consequences extending beyond party politics into the heart of family bonds.

Party defections happen every day; defections of blood are far less common. That’s why Abba’s move resonated so strongly.

In contrast, Atiku Abubakar’s response stood out as a lesson in restraint and dignity. Rather than react with anger, he chose composure and maturity – an example many political heavyweights would do well to emulate.

Within African culture, public disagreement by a child can carry deep emotional weight. Yet Atiku Abubakar is not the first father to face political divergence from his son, and he has managed it with professionalism, reinforcing the idea that politics should not erase family ties.

Differences in political belief are normal, even within families. Still, family must come first. History offers examples: SG Ikoku once defeated his father at the polls, and Dr. Alvan Ikoku responded with grace, placing love and respect above politics. Similarly, Olusola Saraki never disowned Bukola Saraki over party differences. Together, they built enduring political legacies.

Frankly, ideological disagreement within a family is far preferable to scandals that permanently stain reputations.

Atiku Abubakar’s reaction to his son’s APC defection reflects leadership. He neither disowned nor denounced him. Calm, firm, and democratic, his response shows that maturity outweighs ego.

It’s also important to remember that Atiku’s son is an adult, entitled to his own decisions, wise or otherwise. Every family carries imperfections, yet that doesn’t prevent progress. This episode won’t derail Atiku’s political ambition; if anything, it adds complexity to the contest ahead.

Meanwhile, public attention remains misplaced. While we fixate on party switches, the nation grapples with economic decline, worsening insecurity, and widespread despair. Leadership should be measured by competence, character, and results – not merely party labels.

DSP Barau Jibril’s actions amount to a political miscalculation with consequences beyond politics. They risk damaging a family’s fabric and sowing distrust that may endure. Political victories achieved at such cost are often short-lived.

Today’s triumph can easily become tomorrow’s regret. Taking another man’s son into your camp invites a sobering question: what happens when the roles reverse?

It’s also worth noting that APC’s North-East power structure is firmly established. Kashim Shettima (Vice President), Comrade Mustapha Salihu (National Vice Chairman), Nuhu Ribadu (NSA), and Governors Babagana Zulum, Mai Mala Buni, and Inuwa Yahaya hold significant influence in the region.

Why did DSP involve himself in this sensitive family matter? If engagement was necessary, NSA Ribadu was better positioned, given his existing family ties. Aliyu Atiku is married to Ribadu’s daughter, Fatima – such connections still matter in Nigerian politics

DSP should realize some battles aren’t worth fighting. Abba Atiku’s APC defection wasn’t a major win, and his support for Tinubu’s second term didn’t quite deliver. DSP’s spin on Abba’s reasons for joining APC is striking. But why wasn’t DSP focused on snatching Mustapha Kwankwaso from NNPP? That would’ve been a worthwhile defection

Islam views family as the bedrock of a healthy society. Maintaining family bonds is a form of worship that fosters love, unity, and mutual support. Whoever breaks family bonds, for whatever reason, should know their actions will return to them – they’ll reap what they sow.

My parting words for DSP Barau Jibril: Any politician should know the difference between politics and protecting family honor. DSP should avoid miscalculating politics and tell his circle to stop celebrating someone else’s discomfort. Receiving someone else’s son doesn’t guarantee election value – one day, their own child might be taken too .

Dukawa wrote it from Kano