Tambuwal and the quest for new order

This quest for new order of leadership in the country is not out of place in view of the apparent leadership failure, especially at the centre, which has continued to plunge the nation into deep crises, corruption, and hopelessness. More than ever before, Nigerians are desperately yearning for the leadership that will bring about the […]

This quest for new order of leadership in the country is not out of place in view of the apparent leadership failure, especially at the centre, which has continued to plunge the nation into deep crises, corruption, and hopelessness.
More than ever before, Nigerians are desperately yearning for the leadership that will bring about the much needed change in the country. The worst thing that can happen to a nation is when its people, especially the younger generation lose hope in that same country.
 This hopelessness is not misplaced. It is as a result of the many failed promises by successive governments, which got worsened in this present administration. But some leaders are different. Since his historic election as speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has distinguished himself.
Considering his records, it will not be out of place to say that Speaker Tambuwal is the best presidential candidate in 2015, political platform notwithstanding. It is in the light of the above that I consider it necessary to highlight some of the qualities that distinguish Tambuwal from the other top contenders.
His cosmopolitan nature and ability to reach out and connect with Christians is one thing that fascinates me. Many Nigerians did not know that in 2012, the speaker, though a devoted Muslim, attended a church service in Rivers State, where he spoke to the rather bewildered Anglican congregation and preached peace and harmony between Christians and Muslims. Again, the speaker last year donated N10 million to the building of Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN) university in Plateau State. How many of those angling for Nigeria’s presidency have done this? If present and previous leaders had embarked on similar peace missions and fence-mending, we wouldn’t have been where we are today. People with such an uncommon zeal, courage and patriotism should be encouraged and given the opportunity to lead this country to greatness.
The Sokoto-born lawyer has been in the legislature for many years. He was in the National Assembly as a legislative aide for four years and has been a lawmaker for 12 years. So he perfectly understands the workings of government.
Undoubtedly, in the last 16 years, Tambuwal has related freely with people from different parts of the country. This attribute places him at a vantage position to know the country and its people better. If such a fellow becomes president, reaching out to citizens and connecting with them won’t be a problem.
It is also believed that if Tambuwal becomes president, the usual frosty relationship between the executive and the legislature, which has hampered development in the country, will be a thing of the past. It is no longer news that such unfriendly relationship has always been the reason behind the non-implementation of budgets, etc.
The fact is that if Nigerians want someone with the necessary experience in good governance, then Tambuwal is better than other contenders for that seat in Aso Rock.  Truly, a basic understanding of the institution of the legislature is a critical factor in any democratic project.
If the speaker declares interest in the presidential election, it will be an opportunity for the youth to make a bold statement. As a youth, it is believed that he will not fail his people. He will, no doubt, bring about generational change.
Again, Speaker Tambuwal is a thorough-bred politician. He has been in politics right from his school days. That is an added advantage.
Furthermore, even his enemies attest to the fact that he is not corrupt. And it only takes someone who is not corrupt to successfully deal with corruption.
On the international scene, Tambuwal is also connected and has made a mark for himself. Worthy of mention is his role at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). At the CPA, he connects with speakers of parliaments of all commonwealth nations.
It is time for Nigerians to put aside, all ethnic, religious and sectional sentiments and be united in choosing a leader that will once again raise their hope, inspire confidence and effect genuine national rebirth, reform and transformation.
Joshua wrote in from Jos, Plateau State.