Former Chairperson
By Babangida Kakaki
The level of ecstasy, pomp, and pageantry displayed by members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm in Kaduna State on Monday, as their outgoing Chairperson, Asma’u Yawo Halilu, crashed out in her re-election bid, could best be described as electrifying.
It marked a dramatic end to a tenure marred by political betrayal, a breach of trust, and fractured relationships.
A Promising Beginning
Halilu made history as the first and only female Chairperson of the prestigious, male-dominated Kaduna NUJ Council. She rose to the position with overwhelming support from all chapels, veterans, and the council’s former chairman, Garba Muhammad, who recently contested for the NUJ national presidency but lost.
Despite the initial goodwill, her three-year tenure was riddled with controversies and strained relationships. Many of her supporters felt betrayed as she allegedly alienated those who worked tirelessly to secure her victory.
Strained Relationships and Political Missteps
Halilu’s relationship with key figures such as Garba Muhammad, her mentor and benefactor, soured over time. Garba Muhammad had championed her rise, mobilizing support and securing endorsements for her candidacy. However, when he contested the NUJ national presidency, Halilu reportedly supported his rival, Dele Atunbi of the Southwest. This act of perceived disloyalty deeply hurt her supporters and widened the rift within the council.
2024 NUJ Presidential Candidate/
Former Chairman Kaduna Council
Her fallout with other influential journalists, including Chimezie Enyiocha of Channels TV, Amos Mathew of New Nigeria Newspaper, and Benjamin Isaiah of SWAN, further isolated her. These individuals, once her staunch supporters, accused her of failing to honor their contributions to her success.
Leadership Challenges and Internal Discord
Halilu’s tenure was marked by internal discord, particularly with the council’s Secretary, Gambo Santos. Their strained relationship, reportedly over financial management issues, led to public acrimony. Santos even petitioned the EFCC over alleged financial irregularities involving the council’s bank account. Efforts to reconcile the duo proved futile, further destabilizing the council.
A Controversial Tenure
While Halilu achieved some milestones, such as minor renovations at the NUJ secretariat and the establishment of a mini games court, critics dismissed these as superficial accomplishments. Her leadership style, described as high-handed and divisive, alienated many members.
Her tenure also saw a fallout with the state government. Allegations of aligning with opposition parties during the 2023 elections reportedly led to strained relations with Governor Uba Sani’s administration, resulting in a lack of support for her leadership.
NUJ Embattled Chairperson Now Executive Director Radio, KSMC
The Writing on the Wall
As the 2024 NUJ elections approached, it became evident that Halilu’s chances of re-election were slim. Strong opposition from all segments of journalists, including veterans, former chairpersons, and chapel leaders, signaled her impending defeat.
Her opponent, Abdulgafar, launched a well-attended campaign, in stark contrast to Halilu’s poorly attended events. Her reliance on tribal affiliations failed to garner the support needed to secure a second term.
Campaign Team
The Bitter End
On election day, Halilu was notably absent, reportedly due to illness. Her defeat was met with jubilation by her critics, who saw it as a reward for her alleged betrayal and mismanagement.
In a final act of defiance, Halilu restricted postings on the council’s WhatsApp platform and appointed non-EXCO members as administrators. These actions were viewed as unrepentant and petty by many members.
Lessons for the Future
Asma’u Yawo Halilu’s tenure serves as a cautionary tale of how political betrayal and a lack of goodwill can erode trust and support. Her successor and future leaders are reminded of the importance of maintaining integrity, honoring commitments, and valuing the contributions of supporters.
As a veteran journalist aptly put it, “One must never forget the hands that lifted them to power. Leadership is about trust, service, and respect. A word is enough for the wise.”
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