Of Ahmed Idris Wase, Consistency and the Tasks Ahead
By Sanusi Muhammad
One may sound an apologist or card carrying member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) going by my writings on APC stakeholders and those that fire the shots from APC National Secretariat.
That’s far from the point, unless if there is anything called political loyalty, and it ever exists in my pen profession, then mine is to the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and possibly to the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) where I belong professionally. Those are the professional bodies that allow, support and provide me the breathing space to practice my chosen profession with ease over decades.
But along the line of duty, one periodically stumbles into men and women of honor who are serving humanity with absolute dedication within their powers belonging to political parties of their choice. One of such personalities is the member representing Wase Federal Constituency of Plateau State in the 10th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Ahmed Idris Wase CON.“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”-------Nelson Mandela.
As an activist in struggle for a better society, and keen student of history, I always admire leaders who demonstrate vision, consistency and an unwavering commitment to the welfare and progress of the people they serve. One issue that continuously interests me is the process of leadership recruitment in Nigeria. Too often, public offices are occupied not necessarily by the most capable, but by those with the right political connections. It wasn’t lack of capacity or expected loyalty that robbed Rt. Hon Ahmed Idris Wase the position of Speakership of the 10th House of Representatives. He was a victim of denial from a well hatchet plan master- minded by those that believed he was a threat to their tall ambitions by deploying all shenanigans against his victory. The daylight robbery, is still troubling members of his constituency in Plateau State.
The consequences of that flawed system are usually borne by the masses as end beneficiaries. It is against this backdrop that many people received with great excitement the re-emergence of the seasoned politician, administrator and farmer, Rt. Hon Wase as the 2027 candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) for Wase Federal Constituency.
For a federal constituency that has been yearning for more federal presence. His re-emergence presents continuation of more opportunities and better days for purposeful direction.
In a political environment often characterized by empty political promises and transactional leadership, the re-emergence of a leader reputed for discipline, consistency and courage offers another renewed hope to the people. To many within Wase Federal Constituency and Plateau South in particular, Rt. Hon Ahmed Idris Wase represents the possibility of a more responsive and people-centred style of representation.
Like many accomplished statesmen, Wase did not stumble into leadership. His public service journey has been shaped by years of preparation, experience and dedication. As a onetime senior civil servant, he built an impressive record to the commendation of his superior and junior officers. Beyond the office he has occupied, Wase has earned a reputation for consistency, resilience, loyalty to his convictions and an exceptional ability to build enduring relationships. These qualities have sustained his relevance in not only Wase Federal Constituency, but the Nigerian state political landscape for over two decades. Perhaps one of the defining features of his political journey is his steadfast commitment to the progressive political tradition. Like the late Sardauna of Sokoto, Ahmadu Bello, he has remained faithful to his political philosophy, resisting the temptation to abandon his principles in pursuit of personal advantage. His story demonstrates that patience, perseverance and consistency remain invaluable virtues in public life. Having had the privilege of interacting briefly with him, I most sincerely look forward like most members of his constituency to the day in 2027 that he would have the opportunity to serve as the 11th Speaker House of Representatives.
As one of his trusted aides and reliable political stabilizer, Barr Musa Adamu Idris said: “I have over the years witnessed his sense of humility, joviality, dedication to public service and unwavering loyalty to his party, party members, traditional and religious institutions and total commitment to the development of his federal constituency.”
Looking back, it is evident that the foundation of his leadership was laid during his first tenure in 2007. As an activist, I can vividly recall listening to parents, political players, teachers, religious and community leaders speak glowingly of his courage, integrity and leadership qualities. Those impressions have remained with me over the years.
Rt. Hon Ahmed Idris Wase’s journey is a story of patience, resilience and character. It is a story that underscores the rewards of perseverance and principled representation. Those who know him well understand that his commitment to humility, responsibility and people-centred service is not merely campaign rhetoric but reflects values he has consistently demonstrated throughout his public life. His emergence as APC candidate for Wase federal constituency is, therefore, more than the fulfillment of a personal aspiration. To many, it is recognition of decades of loyalty, sacrifice and consistent service. it also serves as a reminder that enduring success is often built on integrity, patience and steadfast commitment to a cause. Politics, at its essence, is about service. Beyond campaign slogans and electoral victories, the true test of leadership lies in the ability to protect the people’s interests, influence sound legislation and facilitate meaningful development.
Based on the aforementioned, return of Rt. Hon Ahmed Idris Wase to the House of Representatives is a collective assignment to Wase Constituents that yearn for better democratic dividends.
Muhammad is a commentator on national issues
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Political Commentary