How Muktari Betara Calmed Nerves Following APC Primaries In Southern Borno

By Yusuf Adamu

Honourable Muktari Betara Aliyu, the member representing Biu, Kwaya Kusar, Bayo, and Shani federal constituencies in Borno South, has unequivocally paid his dues as a dedicated party man. His recent intervention, in which he urged certain aspirants from his constituency to withdraw their candidacies in the interest of peace and unity within the state, stands as a testament to his pragmatic leadership approach.

This act not only highlights his commitment to fostering cohesion but also reinforces the notion that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains one united family in Borno State. As we prepare to enter the next phase of elections toward 2027, it is imperative to recognise Hon. Aliyu’s pivotal role in shaping a path toward a harmonious and prosperous future for both the party and the people of Borno South.

Leadership in contemporary politics transcends mere representation; it demands an unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and strategic foresight. Hon. Aliyu embodies these qualities through his demonstrated style of leadership—one deeply rooted in dialogue, consensus-building, and an acute awareness of the broader interests of his constituents and the party at large.

By intervening to ask aspirants to step down, he prioritised collective well-being over individual ambition, a move that underscores his dedication not just to the electoral success of the APC but also to the stability and progress of Borno State.

The significance of this intervention must be viewed against the backdrop of Borno’s complex socio-political landscape. The state has endured immense challenges, particularly from the insurgency that has ravaged communities, disrupted livelihoods, and threatened the fabric of social cohesion.

In such an environment, internal party conflicts could have exacerbated tensions, potentially fracturing not only the APC but also the fragile peace within the state. Hon. Aliyu’s leadership in mitigating these disputes reflects a mature understanding of political responsibility, one that places the needs of the greater community above factional interests.

Indeed, Hon. Aliyu’s efforts demonstrate his growing stature as a crucial pillar within the APC—not only in his immediate constituency but throughout southern Borno and the state as a whole. His ability to engender respect and acceptance among diverse stakeholders signals a deep reservoir of trust and influence, positioning him as an indispensable figure in Borno’s political arena. This level of acceptability is essential for any leader aspiring to drive meaningful change, as it facilitates cooperation and strengthens the party’s unity heading into future electoral contests.

The APC’s unity in Borno State, as exemplified by leaders like Hon. Aliyu, is instrumental in ensuring that the party can effectively confront forthcoming challenges. As Nigeria marches toward the 2027 elections, maintaining a cohesive and focused front is critical to sustaining momentum and capitalising on the gains achieved thus far. The party’s collective readiness to operate as “one family,” especially in a state marked by previous instability, exemplifies a commendable dedication to democratic principles and good governance.

Equally significant is the synergy between Hon. Aliyu’s leadership and the pragmatic governance exhibited by the current administration in Borno. The governor’s relentless efforts to rebuild and revive the state amid ongoing security threats provide a solid foundation for leaders like Hon. Aliyu to build on. Together, their combined focus on unity and development creates an optimistic outlook for the region’s future, reaffirming the APC’s commitment to restoring Borno to its historic stature as a beacon of progress and stability.

The forthcoming election cycle presents an opportunity for the APC to write yet another chapter in Borno State’s resilient history. With the scars of insurgency slowly healing and the emergence of leaders who prioritise peace and constructive dialogue, there is every reason to believe that the party will continue to triumph. Hon. Aliyu’s role in this narrative is indispensable; his consistent support for unity and his interventions to prevent discord have laid a critical groundwork for electoral success and sustained regional development.

For me, Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s dedication as a party man and his strategic leadership in promoting peace among aspirants exemplify the kind of leadership necessary for Borno State’s political and social rejuvenation. His actions reinforce the fact that the APC is a unified family, ready to move forward with strength and solidarity toward 2027.

As Borno emerges from the shadows of insurgency under the guidance of pragmatic leadership at both the state and constituency levels, there is no doubt that the APC will reclaim the state’s glorious past and chart a path toward an even brighter future. Hon. Aliyu remains a cornerstone of this vision—a pillar of peace, unity, and progress whose contributions deserve acknowledgement and support from all who aspire to see Borno State thrive once more.

• Yusuf Adamu writes from Maiduguri