A group of prominent political leaders from the North emerged yesterday, named the League of Northern Democrats (LND), which said it would convene a strategic summit to revive the region’s political and economic place in Nigeria.
The group, which declared its intention to unite and reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape, further revealed that its general concern is the development of Northern Nigeria, stressing that it does not represent the interest of anybody.
The 226-member group, led by former governor of Kano State, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, as interim chairman, Umar Ardo, as convener, and Hon. Emmanuel Jime as interim secretary, comprises former governors, federal lawmakers, and businessmen.
Besides Shekarau and Ardo, some of the top names in the group include Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, Sen. Ibrahim Ida, PhD, CON (Wazirin Katsina); Kabir Tafida (Sarki Fadan Sokoto); Falalu Bello; Dr. Jamilu Isyaka Gwamna (Sardauna Gombe); Emmanuel Jime and Mohammed Kumalia.
Others are Malam Salihu Lukman, Amb. Usman Sarki, Engr. Dallaji Noah, Prof. Usman Yusuf, Muktari Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Aminu Shehu Shagari, and Murtala Shehu Yar’adua (Tafidan Katsina), among others.
After a meeting at the Yar’adua Centre in Abuja, a communique said, “The LND resolved to prioritise the political unity of Northern Nigeria.
“Recognising the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our ranks, we are committed to fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity. This unity will be the foundation for our efforts to reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape.”
They also resolved to write to critical stakeholders in Northern Nigeria to garner their support and participation in the movement.
Those to reach out to include: all former Heads of State; all former and serving vice presidents; former Senate presidents; former Speakers of the House of Representatives; former Chief Justices; former Service Chiefs, Inspectors-General of Police, Comptrollers-General of Customs, Immigration, and Prisons; key distinguished elder statesmen, businessmen and employers of labour, trade unions and other relevant entities.
According to the group, the involvement of these stakeholders is crucial to the success of its mission.
