By Sani Abdulrazak
In his words “I wish to appeal to the people of Kaduna state to continue to closely observe the preventive measures already announced. It is most important that everybody should do their utmost to stay safe, stay home and stay alive”. With a tone of genuine, defiant resolve and certitude in his voice to protect his people from the menace of corona virus pandemic, the Executive Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-rufai broke the sad story to his people that he has tested positive to corona virus. Though still, his unerring dedication and apparent resolve of saving his people from the virus was firm. This effectively signaled the first case of corona virus in the Kaduna state.
Corona virus (COVID-19) is an infectious and highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome. There is currently no vaccine for the disease with preventive measures being the surest way to curb the spread of the virus globally. It is ravaging through all the corners of the world to devastating effect causing untold hardship with an inevitable global economic meltdown starring mankind in the face. So far, there are over half a million confirmed cases of the virus worldwide with over thirty thousand deaths, regrettably these figures keep rising by the hour.
However, with something altogether different from most of our leaders today, the Executive Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-rufai’s precocious response at preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, most notable among whom is the enforcement of the stay at home order and lockdown of the state which is highly praiseworthy. His relentless itch for the safety of his people is truly and blisteringly creditable, as he is today considered comfortably one of the most pro-active Governors in terms preventing the spread of the pandemic. His efforts cannot simply be understated; it is just so incredible. Perhaps even more incredible was that he indefatigably goes round the state to ensure compliance of the stay at home directive. The spectacularly efficient and genuine awareness campaign by the state government on the preventive measures against the COVID-19 is also meritorious.
There was and is nothing but extolment and gratitude from the kvelling people of Kaduna state towards your efforts at preventing the spread of COVID-19 and ensuring our safety. The tremendous wave of seemingly unfathomable prayers and support from the entire state and beyond over this sad news is indicative of the unflinching devotedness and confidence of the people towards you and your administration. Just as your insatiable desire to win all the time has led you to so many mammoth multitudinous victories in the past, this too you will well and truly triumph. With this, we are now more determined than ever before to do everything within our means to defeat the pandemic in Kaduna state.
As we assiduously pray for your quick recovery, I wish to clearly state that this singular act of selfless service of putting the lives and safety of your people above all else has placed you in the pantheon of great leaders. You are for us what Federer is to tennis, a testament to your significance and momentousness. There is probably one certain criterion needed to be fulfilled when accessing the impact of a good leader; putting the people first. The Executive Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-rufai is refreshingly and ardently a selfless leader. Today you have clearly demonstrated that you do not only train the next generation of leaders, your actions inspire the great ones among them. Get well soon my Mentor…my Governor.
Sani Abdulrazak, a Technologist at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria can be reached via email at sazzak175@gmail.com
