I’ll never leave politics, true coalition is party-based, not personal – Shekarau

A former Kano State Governor, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, has declared that he will remain active in politics for the rest of his life, emphasizing the need for genuine party-based coalitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

SolaceBase reports that Shekarau made this known during a media interactive session in Kano on Wednesday, as part of activities marking his 70th birthday celebration.

“I don’t believe in individual coalition. I believe in party coalition.”

According to him, the kind of political alliances that can challenge the ruling party in 2027 must be built on ideology, not personal interests. He said the merger that gave birth to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013 was an example of what true coalition politics should look like.

“That was what we did when ANPP, ACN, CPC and part of APGA came together to form what today you call the APC,” Shekarau recalled.

“When individuals as presidential or vice-presidential candidates, get together without their parties, that’s not a coalition. Each of them leaves his own party, and none comes with his party.”

Shekarau, who was a former education minister and senator, who is now a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said opposition parties must unite under one strong structure if they are serious about returning to power in 2027.

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“Whatever you say about the PDP, it is still the only surviving party among those registered in 1998. It will continue to survive by the grace of God,” he declared, urging smaller parties like ADC, Labour, and SDP to form alliances under the PDP.

Shekarau used the session to reflect on his political journey and faith in divine destiny, noting that he has never regretted any decision in life. “I have no regrets because regrets come from failure to appreciate Allah’s decision on you,” he said.

He added that his political life has always been driven by service and commitment to the people, vowing never to retire from public service. “I will never leave politics till my death,” Shekarau said firmly. “Politics is about serving humanity, and as long as I live, I will continue to play my part.”

Assessing President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Shekarau said the government has yet to meet expectations in tackling insecurity and improving the economy. “A situation where people are being slaughtered like animals is unacceptable. The government must bring criminality to the barest minimum,” he said.

On the economy, the former governor stressed that food security should be the top priority of any administration. “Whatever government does, if it does not create easy access to food, it is rubbish. Food is the most important thing in people’s lives. If people can eat and live well, they will be peaceful,” he added.

As Nigeria approaches another election season, Shekarau’s message was clear — political unity, credible leadership, and faith in God’s plan remain the guiding principles for national progress.