By Ibrahim Hassan

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) has cautioned individuals and groups against dragging the names of late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, and Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, into contemporary political disputes.

In a statement issued by its Director-General, Engr. Abubakar Gambo Umar, the Foundation expressed concern over what it described as increasing attempts by political actors to undermine the legacies of the two national leaders for partisan gain.

It said some individuals seeking political relevance have resorted to making remarks and comparisons that distort the reputations of the late statesmen.

The Foundation stressed that Sir Ahmadu Bello and Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa were not ordinary politicians, but national icons whose contributions to Nigeria’s unity and development remain widely recognised.

It noted that both leaders paid the ultimate price in service to the nation and left behind enduring legacies that continue to inspire generations of Nigerians.

“Their records of achievement in office stand as documented history. They remain towering national icons far above the reach of present-day political comparisons and manipulations,” the statement read.

SABMF warned that it would not tolerate any attempt to drag the names of the late leaders into partisan controversies or use their legacies for political advantage.

The Foundation also cautioned against actions capable of creating division in Northern Nigeria through attacks on the reputations of the country’s founding fathers.

It maintained that the legacies of Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and their contemporaries belong to all Nigerians and should not be used as tools for political point-scoring.

According to SABMF, preserving the memory and achievements of national heroes is a collective responsibility that transcends political affiliations.

The Foundation added that it would continue to take lawful steps to protect the integrity and historical contributions of the late leaders.

It therefore urged political actors and commentators to engage responsibly, show respect for history, and focus on issues that promote national unity, peace, and development.