By Anbdulrauf Aliyu
In the intricate tapestry of Nigerian politics, last week’s announcement and subsequent withdrawal of Maryam Shettima’s nomination as a Ministerial Nominee for Kano state has sparked a chorus of speculation, leaving a nation divided between elation and concern. As the dust settles, it is imperative to dissect the enigma surrounding this episode and delve into the multifaceted factors that may have played a role in Shettima’s sudden retreat from the limelight.
Maryam Shettima, known by her popular moniker Maryam Shetty, emerged as a figure of curiosity – an emblem of the modern Nigerian woman who navigates the crossroads of business, social activism, and political affiliation. Hailing from Kano but firmly grounded in Abuja, Shetty’s resume bore the fingerprints of versatility, painting her as a potential torchbearer for the APC in the political realm. Her nomination was a testament to the party’s acknowledgment of the significance of female representation in the corridors of power.
However, as the nation held its collective breath in anticipation of her Senate screening, the announcement’s abrupt withdrawal sent ripples of bewilderment across the spectrum of Nigerian society. Speculation is an inherent facet of politics, and it often weaves a web of theories more complex than the issue itself. Was it the absence of grassroots support that prompted her removal from the nominee list? Was her identity more entwined with the clime of Abuja’s elite than the roots of her birthplace? These questions, though vital, only scratch the surface of a labyrinthine narrative.
Critics posit that Shetty’s lack of extensive public service experience, while not necessarily a disqualifying factor, may have raised eyebrows. The role of a minister is one that demands sagacity, both in policy formulation and effective implementation. Skeptics, therefore, raised pertinent questions about Shetty’s readiness to steer through the tumultuous waters of governance, drawing parallels between her business acumen and the nuanced realm of public administration.
Furthermore, the assertion that Shetty’s allegiance may have leaned toward the former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, rather than the larger-than-life figure of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adds a new layer to the narrative. Nigerian politics is rife with allegiances, loyalties, and shifting currents that can either propel an individual to the zenith of power or render them a mere footnote in history. Shetty’s connection to Osinbajo, while potentially a testament to her independent thinking, could have cast shadows on her perceived alignment with the party’s inner echelons.
The intrigue deepens as allegations surface regarding the clandestine maneuvering by the President’s chief of staff to usher Shetty onto the nominee list, unbeknownst to the head of state himself. This clandestine act raises questions about the transparency and due diligence exercised in the selection process. Politics, at its core, is about representation and stewardship, and any indication of manipulation can cast a pall over an individual’s credibility.
An additional dimension to the intrigue stems from Shetty’s purported criticism of the present APC National Chairman’s policies during his tenure as the Governor of Kano state. While a democratic society thrives on the tenets of open discourse and accountability, such criticism can evoke skepticism about Shetty’s allegiance to party principles and her potential to harmoniously work within the party’s framework.
However, amid the cacophony of conjectures and suspicions, the crucial question remains: Does this tumultuous episode negate the possibility of Shetty’s qualification for the ministerial post? Her business acumen, social activism, and political involvement are facets that should not be overlooked. Her perceived lack of public service experience, rather than an insurmountable hindrance, could potentially be addressed through mentorship and guidance, shaping her into a more adept public servant.
In the grand tapestry of Nigerian politics, Maryam Shetty’s withdrawal is a thread that intersects with larger narratives of representation, loyalty, experience, and political maneuvering.
While the circumstances of her exit may raise eyebrows, it is imperative to recognize the potential she could have brought to the table. As Nigeria strides toward a more inclusive and progressive political landscape, evaluating candidates based on their merits and potential, rather than being swayed solely by political intrigue, will serve as a beacon of hope for the nation’s democratic evolution.
In a realm often cloaked in opacity and cynicism, Maryam Shetty’s predicament beckons Nigeria to unravel the labyrinthine corridors of its politics and to emerge with an unwavering commitment to integrity, competency, and genuine representation – virtues that can steer the nation toward a brighter future.
Abdulrauf Aliyu
Economist and Policy Analyst writes from
45 Ashiru Road, U/Dosa New Extension
Kaduna
