Kano’s unique political supporters
In the current political dispensation in Kano, “Sojojin Baka” are the unique feature of Kano politics. Sojojin baka are a group of individuals…
In the current political dispensation in Kano, “Sojojin Baka” are the unique feature of Kano politics. Sojojin baka are a group of individuals who can be best described as self-appointed town criers or praise singers. Their major duties are to be in one or more local radio stations in Kano daily to commend a political party or elected/appointed politician with the aim of projecting their performance positively in the eyes of the electorate or table a complaint on behalf of an individual or community.
Among them are very intelligent individuals who know how to talk and marshal their points. There are as many people in this trade that some have made their permanent source of livelihood due to over-reliance on their activities by some elected politicians who pay them heavily.
The most surprising aspect of Kano politics is that the politicians value Sojojin Baka more than the electorate as they empower them to the extent that many of them have become millionaires from this trade.
However, the trade of being Sojan Baka sometimes comes with negative consequences, especially when they make unguarded/false allegations against an individual, which may lead to litigation.
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Towards the buildup to the general election 2019 and 2023, Sojojin Baka contributed in no small measure to making the political atmosphere tense and the election look like a do-or-die affair, most especially for the then ruling APC and the opposition NNPP.
During the governorship election, there were reports of violence and election-related offences in a bid to outwit one another.
The use of Sojojin Baka in Kano politics has made the game unique in Kano. It will, therefore, be excellent if all the crossfire remains issue-based, with mutual respect to both parties and the politicians while the elected and appointed politicians are responsive to the needs of the electorate rather than focus attention on Sojojin Baka.
This can be done through periodic visits and offering explanations by themselves rather than relying entirely on third parties. I believe more attention should be focused on education, health care, and agriculture.
Lastly, as democracy has been in practice for over 20 years, we should always remember that it’s a government for the people by the people. All those elected or appointees, should be on the same page working to actualize campaign promises.
Haruna Ibrahim, Hotoro, Kano