Opinion:
The recent attack on Hon. Ibrahim A. Waiya’s personality has laid bare the hypocrisy of many self-proclaimed “democrats” who claim to advocate for democracy but abandon its principles when pursuing their own interests.
My own encounter with Mohammed Bello , CEO, African Center for Innovative Research and Development (AFRI-CIRD), who serves as president of the Kano Civil Society Forum, a position he assumed after a contentious election, is a case in point. When I reacted to the mail “KCSF’s Board of Trustees (BoT) – Introduction of New Executive Committee Members” on the 19th, Aug; 2024 from the Kano Civil Society Forum, I presented my views in a civilized manner, as is my custom. However, Mohammad Bello felt compelled to call me, threatening me over my statement and warning me that he would “deal with me and that no one would be able to save me.” While I chose not to react, instead maintaining my calm and composure, his behavior spoke volumes about his character.
It’s ironic that Mohammad Bello, who once threatened and took the leadership of the Joint Cluster of Persons With Disability to the force headquarters for issuing a press briefing rejecting and distancing themselves from the perpetuated election and his leadership, and not just once did he threaten this group, now finds fault in Hon. Waiya for reporting a legitimate case of character defamation. This blatant inconsistency raises serious questions about his leadership and commitment to democratic values.
The fact that Ismail Auwal and co were invited to the state Criminal Investigation Department, while Hon. Waiya was also invited upon the police receiving his complaint, demonstrates that the proper channels for seeking redress were followed.
The fact that most online news sites deliberately published foul outcry of a possible threat to press freedom without reaching out to both parties concerned to have a balanced story raises serious questions about journalistic integrity and potential compromise. Again, the swift and alarmist reactions from some individuals, claiming that Auwal was being detained even prior to his scheduled arrival time at the station, suggest an ulterior motive, as I see it.
But just so it be clear, “a destined man is a destined man,” and haters can only watch as he climbs the ladder of success and continues to rise in his career.
Amb. Nworisa Michael,
ED. Stand for Peace Initiative
Nworisamichael1917@gmail.com
