FRUGAL MAESTRO OF POLITICS
Governor Abdulrazaq embodies financial prudence, reckons Jimoh Lawal
In a world of inflated egos, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq stands tall as a beacon of simplicity. He proves that one can lead without being extravagant.
The people of Kwara State and the entire nation are blessed with a leader who values substance over showmanship, who cherishes the welfare of the people over personal gain. He’s the Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum and leads by example, showing us that greatness lies not in grandeur but in genuine commitment to making a difference. Governor Abdulrazaq reminds us all that true greatness lies in the simplicity of service and the power of humility.
In the realm of politics, where opulence and lavishness often take center stage, Abdulrazaq stands out as a beacon of frugality and fiscal responsibility. Unlike many of his counterparts who ruled the State in the past who resided in extravagant government-owned mansions, Governor Abdulrazaq has opted to stay in his private home. His decision to remain in his personal residence is not merely a matter of personal preference but a calculated move to save the state’s resources. By choosing to reside in his private home, he demonstrates his commitment to using public funds wisely and responsibly.
Furthermore, the governor’s emphasis on renovating existing state facilities for his comfort rather than building new ones is a testament to his practical approach to governance. He prioritizes the refurbishment and optimization of existing resources, ensuring that the state’s funds are utilized efficiently.
The governor’s frugality is not limited to his personal accommodation. His moves across the length and breadth of the state with a Toyota Hilux pick up car that he personally bought, and uses it as his official vehicle with two other old cars inherited from the pool of former regime as security vehicles. His entourage is just three vehicles. He extends this ethos to various aspects of the state’s administration, carefully scrutinizing expenses to avoid wasteful spending. His prudence in financial matters has earned him commendations from citizens and observers alike. He is committed to the welfare of the state and its people, and renders services without drawing salaries from the treasury, but instead ploughing such emoluments back to the development of the State.
While some may perceive frugality as a sign of austerity or lack of ambition, Governor Abdulrazaq proves otherwise. He demonstrates that a leader can be both financially responsible and a visionary. His focus on optimizing resources and reducing unnecessary expenses allows him to allocate funds to essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. His commitment to fiscal discipline paves the way for a more transparent and accountable government, where the interests of the people take precedence.
He is one of the few governors in the country to abrogate the states pension laws enacted by their predecessors which earmark huge sums of money for ex- governors and their deputies after leaving office.
His commitment to prompt salary payment represents a profound departure from the past, reflecting a resolute stance against the systemic delays that once plagued the state’s payroll system. Gone are the days of borrowed funds to fulfill this fundamental obligation.
The rhythmic pulse of progress beats steadily as workers now receive their salaries before the 24th of each month—a testament to his dedication to the well-being of those who tirelessly contribute to the state’s growth. Embracing the principles of fairness and equity, he masterfully orchestrated the implementation of a minimum wage policy, ensuring that the toil of each worker is justly rewarded.
In a display of empathy and foresight, he chose a path rarely taken. Instead of wielding the axe of retrenchment, he embraced the mantle of opportunity, providing gainful employment to over 5,000 teachers.
A chapter of financial reconciliation unfolded as he tackled the arrears that had accumulated like shadows over the state’s financial landscape, a testament to his commitment to right past wrongs. The local governments, now endowed with newfound autonomy, stand as living proof of his dedication to empowering the grassroots.
As the sun sets on each working day, he ensures that pensioners receive their due, breathing life into the promise of a dignified retirement. The coffers dedicated to this noble cause have swelled to unprecedented heights, with an infusion of approximately N15 billion—a reflection of his unwavering resolve to honor the contributions of those who have served.
Indeed, under his stewardship, Kwara State has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis—a transformation characterized by sound financial management, dedication to the workforce, and an unflinching commitment to progress. As his tenure continues to write a legacy of impactful change, his actions stand as a testament to the potential that leadership holds in shaping the destinies of states and the lives of its people.
Just last week, he accompanied the distinguished ministerial nominee, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to the hallowed red chambers for the crucial screening process. The governor’s presence was a testament to his unwavering commitment to promoting the best interests of the state and the nation at large.
With his leadership, Kwara State embarks on a path of progress and prosperity, guided by the wisdom of a leader who understands the value of financial prudence in the pursuit of a better tomorrow.
Lawal is the Legal Adviser, Kwara State APC
