Ibrahim Bello Gusau IBG, a well-known member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a social media influencer, has raised concerns over what he describes as divisive tribal politics within the party in Zamfara State. Speaking in an interview with The Spectacles, IBG called on party leaders to foster unity and treat all members as equals, warning that internal divisions could weaken the party’s chances in future elections.
Ibrahim IBG emphasized that his observations were not meant to insult or demean anyone but to highlight practices that could harm the party’s cohesion. He pointed to recent events involving two key political figures, His Excellency Kogunan Gusau and His Excellency Zannan Bungudu, as examples of how tribal and political favoritism could create unnecessary rifts. According to him, when Kogunan Gusau’s father-in-law and younger brother passed away, Zannan Bungudu traveled to Kano State to offer condolences, a gesture expected among political allies. However, when Zannan Bungudu’s own father's younger brother died four weeks later, the same courtesy was not extended to him by many of the party’s top figures, including those within Senator Abdulaziz Yari’s camp.
IBG questioned why such disparities existed, particularly when both leaders belonged to the same party and political faction. He wondered whether Zannan Bungudu’s governorship aspirations had made him a target, leading to his exclusion from the usual political courtesies. "If seeking the governorship is considered a grave offense within the Yari camp, then why should death and mourning be politicized?" he asked. His remarks underscored the need for fairness and solidarity among party members, regardless of personal ambitions or tribal affiliations.
The APC influencer stressed that his comments were not meant to elevate or diminish anyone’s reputation but to encourage corrective measures that would strengthen the party. He praised Senator Abdulaziz Yari, also known as Marafan Sokoto, for his efforts to maintain discipline within his political camp and prevent further divisions. However, Ibrahim IBG urged the senator and other leaders to go further by ensuring that all members are treated with respect and dignity, especially in moments of grief.
IBG concluded his remarks with a prayer for unity and peace in Zamfara State, extending his best wishes to key leaders such as His Excellency Matawalle and Senator Yari. He also called for divine forgiveness for the deceased and prayed for stability in the state. His message resonated with many who believe that political success can only be achieved through inclusivity and mutual respect.
The issue of tribal politics is not new in Zamfara, where political alliances often fracture along ethnic and regional lines. Analysts warn that if left unchecked, such divisions could undermine the APC dominance in the state, particularly as opposition parties seek to capitalize on internal discord. IBG's intervention has sparked discussions on social media, with some commending his boldness while others dismiss his concerns as exaggerated.
Nevertheless, his call for unity serves as a reminder that political success depends on collective effort rather than individual ambitions. As Zamfara prepares for future elections, the APC ability to address these internal challenges will determine whether it can maintain its stronghold or risk losing ground to rivals. For now, the ball is in the court of party leaders to either heed IBG’s advice or allow divisions to fester, a choice that could shape the state’s political landscape for years to come.