Kano, Nigeria — In a story that underscores the transient nature of political office and the value of personal skills, Hon. Abdullahi Ghali Basaf, the former Chairman of Kumbotso Local Government Area in Kano State, has allegedly returned to his pre-political tailoring business following his removal from office by a court ruling earlier this year.
Basaf was sacked as chairman in March 2026 after a Kano State High Court, presided over by Justice Abdu Maiwada Abubakar who also nullified his Certificate of Return.
The court ruled that it had been issued in violation of an earlier order, siding with challenger Ali Musa (popularly known as “Hard Worker”), who was declared the rightful NNPP candidate and winner. KANSIEC subsequently withdrew Basaf’s certificate and moved to swear in Musa.
Months later, images circulating on social media show Basaf back at work in a tailoring workshop, focused on fabric and measurements — a humbling return to the trade that helped sustain him and his family before entering politics.
The development has drawn mixed reactions online. Some users praise it as a display of humility and self-reliance, noting that returning to honest work after holding public office is admirable in a country where many ex-officials struggle with life outside power.
Others see it as a reminder of the instability in local government politics, often marked by legal battles over primaries and candidate substitutions.
Basaf, who had been actively involved in community issues like security, education, and infrastructure during his tenure, appears undeterred. His story highlights how many Nigerian politicians maintain private vocations as a safety net amid the uncertainties of elective positions.
This episode comes amid broader discussions in Kano about judicial interventions in local elections and the importance of respecting court orders in democratic processes. As Ali Musa settles into the chairmanship role, Basaf’s pivot back to tailoring serves as a quiet testament to resilience.
About the Author
