Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has urged outgoing governors to refrain from meddling in the governance of their states as after leaving office at the end of this month.
Speaking at a farewell dinner for the ourgoing governors held in Abuja, Saraki, who is also a former governor of Kwara State, advised the 18 outgoing governors to embrace a new phase of life and contribute to national development.
In his goodwill message to the governors, Saraki commended their services to their respective states but emphasised the importance of allowing their successors to carry out their duties unhindered.
He said, “When you are no longer governor, allow your successor to do their work. Go back to your families. I am sure your wives, children, and grandchildren are counting the days. You are bracing up for a new phase of life which is completely different.
“Spend more time with your families. Save your money for hampers and rams because they won’t come as usual.”
Another former governor, Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, shared his experiences on life after office and urged both new and returning governors to prioritise the welfare of the people regardless of political affiliations.
Aliyu cautioned against personalising power, warning that such actions could have negative consequences.
Aliyu said, “At times, people will say this is our time. Don’t make that mistake. A former governor who made that mistake is now walking on the streets.”
Aliyu emphasided that being governors does not automatically make them the best or brightest, stating “That you are governors today does not mean that you are the best. Some of us were not the brightest in class. Perhaps, we were in the last 10 in the class. So, don’t think because you are governors, you must impose your successor.”
Former Gombe State governor Ibrahim Dankwambo, recounted the challenges of transitioning from office to post-office life, highlighting an amusing incident involving an unnamed former governor, who missed a flight due to relying on his aides for reminders when he was in office.
Dankwambo also advised outgoing governors to avoid meddling in the affairs of their successors and to prepare for retirement by engaging in meaningful activities.
He said, “You are retiring from work, not life. Avoid meddling into the affairs of your predecessors. As you get older, your health cannot be taken for granted. You have to bear with the pressure.”
Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, emphasised the need for states to work effectively for their citizens, asserting that Nigeria cannot achieve greatness without strong foundations.
She called for partnerships and deliberate policies to empower Nigerian women, stating, “Nigeria cannot be great without the states. We know that we don’t have strong foundations but through hard work, this country can be better.”
The farewell dinner was attended by a notable gathering of past, serving, and incoming governors, including Kayode Fayemi, Aminu Tambuwal, Aminu Masari, Charles Soludo, Bala Mohammed, Babagana Zulum, Dauda Lawal, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, and others.
