By Abdullahi Issa
Sayings; “In the tapestry of democracy, equitable zoning weaves the threads of fairness, ensuring every district’s voice resonates in the halls of power.”
For Patigi Local Government, this principle of zoning has been a cornerstone of our political ethos of unity and progress across our three distinct districts: Patigi, Lade, and Kpada. The Patigi District encompasses Patigi Wards 1, 2, 3, and 4; Lade District comprises Lade Wards 1, 2, and 3; and Kpada District includes Kpada Wards 1, 2, and 3. This clear delineation forms the foundation of our zoning system, a model of political fairness that deserves global study.
The zoning arrangement in Patigi is not merely a system but a move to our commitment to inclusivity. It ensures that every district has its moment to lead, with a sense of shared destiny. I am particularly proud that Lade District stands positioned to be the next beneficiary of the National Assembly position allocated to Patigi. This is not a coincidence but a deliberate outcome of our time-honored tradition of rotational representation.
For those unfamiliar with Patigi’s political framework, allow me to illuminate our zoning arrangements, starting with the chairmanship of the local government. In 1996, the chairmanship was held by Alhaji Usman Ndalolo from Patigi District. After his three-year tenure, the position rotated to Lade District in 1999, where Alhaji Abdullahi Lade served with distinction. By 2004, it was Kpada District’s turn, and delivered admirably. This cycle has remained unbroken, an example of Patigi’s adherence to zoning.
The rotation continued seamlessly: after Hon Thomas Gana, the chairmanship returned to Patigi District with M I Liman in 2008, then to Lade with Hon Dauda Lata in 2010, and back to Kpada with Hon Usman Ndako Kpada in 2013. The cycle repeated with Alhaji Gabi in 2017 in Patigi, Hon Adam El-Rufai in Lade, District holds the mantle till date since 2024, embodying the dividends of our democratic commitment. This unbroken chain reflects the strength of our zoning system, ensuring no district is sidelined.
The State House of Assembly representation mirrors this equitable approach. In 1979, Alhaji Sadauna Musa from Patigi District represented us, followed by Alhaji jibril Ndagi in 1990 from Lade, and Hon Benjamin Issa from Kpada in 1999. The cycle continued with Alhaji Aliyu Mayaki from Patigi in the year 2003, Hon Dauda Lata from Lade in 2007, Hon Prof Gana issa from Kpada in 2011, Hon Shuiabu Abdulkadir from Patigi in 2015, Hon El-Rufai from Lade in 2019, and currently Hon Kareem Musa from Kpada since 2023 till date. This rotational representation ensures that every district’s voice is heard at the state level, reinforcing our collective strength.
At the national level, Patigi’s zoning system shines equally bright. The senatorship was once held by Alhaji Ahmed Zuruku from Patigi District in 1999, while the House of Representatives saw Alhaji Sule Ahman and later Late Alhaji Aliyu Ahman, both from Patigi, serve for a combined 16 years. Given this history, it is evident that the next National Assembly seat must go to Lade District, in keeping with our zoning tradition. This is not a matter of favoritism but a reflection of our commitment to fairness and equity. Kpada District, in turn, will have its opportunity in the future, ensuring the cycle remains unbroken.
Beyond elected positions, Patigi’s zoning philosophy extends to appointments, including Special Advisers (SAs), Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), and Commissioners at both state and federal levels. This comprehensive approach ensures that every district benefits from political patronage to show a sense of belonging and shared progress.
Patigi is not just a place; it is an ideology of democratic excellence. Our people are united by a shared commitment to fairness, and our zoning system is a legacy we proudly uphold. As ambassadors of Patigi, we will continue to champion this model of governance, showcasing to the world that unity and equity are the bedrock of a thriving community. Patigi’s greatness lies not only in its people but in the systems we have built to ensure every voice matters.
Issa writes from Patigi
