By Comrade Gesua Abduyekini
Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
For many, this decision is seen as a betrayal of his political mentor, Dr. Bukola Saraki. However, others view it as a positive step in the right direction, even though Abdullahi has not yet indicated which political party he plans to join.
In Kwara State, where political dynamics can be intense, Abdullahi’s departure is regarded by some as a betrayal. He has been a close ally of former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, having served as the Commissioner of Education while Saraki was governor of the state.
The situation highlights the fact that politics often revolves around choices and strategies necessary to remain relevant in the political arena.
According to Mallam Abdullahi, he had ample time to reflect before arriving at “the difficult conclusion that this is the only viable option for him at this time,” given the political landscape in Kwara State. “How can you expect me to quit partisan politics at my age when the likes of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other senior Nigerians are still very active in politics?” Bolaji added.
Mr. Abdullahi began his career as a journalist with ThisDay Newspapers before being appointed as the special assistant on media and strategy by Dr. Saraki in 2003. He served as the Kwara State Commissioner of Education, Science, and Technology from 2007 to 2011.
During his tenure, he championed one of the most comprehensive education reforms in the country and launched the flagship initiative “Every Child Counts,” which brought hundreds of children back to public schools.
Bolaji Abdullahi served in the cabinet of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan. He was appointed as the Honourable Minister of Youth Development in July 2011 and later became the Minister of Sports, a position he held until 2014. During his tenure as Minister of Sports, he led the Nigerian National Team, the Super Eagles, to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations after a 19-year wait and also guided the team to win the Under-17 World Cup for the fifth time.
In addition, Bolaji Abdullahi served as the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a position he retained after being overwhelmingly elected at the party’s national convention in July 2018.
He is also an accomplished author, having written several publications, including “On a Platter of Gold: How Jonathan Won and Lost Nigeria,” which details President Goodluck Jonathan’s rise to power
In politics, there are no permanent friends or enemies. Bolaji’s departure from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) marks a significant parting of ways with Dr. Saraki, who was instrumental in introducing him to public service and politics.
Abandoning the PDP could very well be a strategic decision, especially with the 2027 General Election approaching. As the election draws nearer, politicians will increasingly focus on their ambitions for various positions.
Remaining in the Saraki camp may not be advantageous for some, prompting the need to switch parties
During the Ministerial screening by the Senate in 2011, when Bolaji was nominated, he stated that after God and his parents, the next most important person in his life is Dr. Saraki. He emphasized that he would not have taken this step without thoroughly understanding the implications of his decision.
Dr. Saraki, who has been a political godfather and leader, has guided many individuals such as Zakari Mohammed, Abdulfatahi Ahmed, Razaq Atunwa, Dr. Ali Ahmad, and others. These individuals would not view Bolaji’s actions as a disappointment, as no one has been able to match that track record.
It is important to understand Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi’s decision rather than criticize him as a betrayer.
Bolaji Abdullahi has added immense value, and we are all proud of him as a representative of Ilorin, Kwara State in every regard.
He has positively impacted many people. The PDP has lost a great politician in Bolaji Abdullahi, who is much more than just a name.
I urge all Sarakites to stop the smear campaign against a man of integrity and principles who makes us proud.
Bolaji Abdullahi faced numerous challenges during the 2023 election campaign from some Sarakites, including a woman who, in no way and in all aspects, was his equal. She insulted him, spread falsehoods, and worked against him, along with others in the Saraki camp.
As the 2023 election approached, the same woman and a few others aligned themselves with the APC candidate against Bolaji Abdullahi. Let us fear God Almighty and remember the consequences of our actions.
Bolaji Abdullahi is a man of humanity, a very intelligent man to be proud of, and not greedy in any way.
Comrade Gesua Abdulyekini Radio Kwara and former state chairman Radio, Television, Theatre and Art’s Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU)
