The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has urged Nigerian leaders to return to people-centred governance by prioritising the needs of the poor and marginalised as a true tribute to the legacy of the late Mallam Aminu Kano, who passed away on April 17, 1983.

While describing the late northern leader as a beacon of hope for the oppressed and a relentless advocate of social justice, equity, and democracy, the party reminded those in power that Aminu Kano’s life was defined by a tireless struggle for the emancipation of the common people.

National Chairman of the party, Falalu Bello, in a statement on Thursday to commemorate the 42nd anniversary of Aminu Kano’s passing, said the late leader was committed to revolutionary ideals which led to the emancipation of the ordinary people.

Born on August 9, 1920, the late Aminu Kano was a founding leader of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and later the PRP.

Falalu said Aminu Kano stood firmly against the injustices perpetuated by the autocratic Native Administrations and the Colonial Rule.

He said: “Today, we urge contemporary and aspiring politicians to take this message to heart, to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal ambitions, and to pursue governance that genuinely serves all citizens regardless of their background.

“As we commemorate his life, we are reminded of the pivotal ideas that characterized his political engagement. Aminu Kano championed the rights of women, advocated for the poor, and sought to dismantle ethnically based political parties in favour of unity and inclusivity.

“In an era where the call for social justice and equality is more urgent than ever, we implore our leaders and young political aspirants to embody Aminu Kano’s spirit of leadership—one that fosters dialogue, promotes inclusiveness, and galvanises the masses towards collective progress.

“His model of engagement, characterized by empowerment and education, is a reminder that the true measure of leadership lies in elevating the voices of the disenfranchised.

“As we reflect on our political landscape, we must recommit ourselves to upholding his ideals, ensuring that democratic institutions function for the common good, and that they are accessible and responsive to all citizens.

“As we mark this 42nd anniversary of Mallam Aminu Kano’s passing, let us celebrate his life not merely through remembrance but through action. Let us renew our dedication to his principles, ensuring that his vision for a just and egalitarian society remains alive in the hearts and minds of current and future leaders.

Falalu called on all citizens, especially those in leadership positions, to honour Mallam Aminu Kano’s legacy by striving for a Nigeria where equity, justice, and democracy thrive and where power resides with the people, and where every voice, especially that of the talakawa, is heard and valued.

Falalu added that “rigged elections in our Local Government elections, particularly in Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Jigawa, where Mallam Aminu’s followers held sway as well as other states in Nigeria must be reversed if democracy is to survive in Nigeria.”