Shehu Sani is a name that resonates deeply in Nigerian political and activist circles. A man whose journey from student leader to senator, from political prisoner to author, is a story of unyielding determination and fierce advocacy for human rights and democracy.

Born on October 29, 1967, in Tudun Wada, Kaduna State, Sani’s story is not just about his rise to power, but about his unflinching advocacy in the fight for justice in Nigeria.

A Grounding in Radical Thought

Shehu Sani’s education reflects his early exposure to radical ideas. He attended Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) School, Badarawa, Kaduna, between 1975 and 1980. He enrolled at Government Day Secondary School, Kagara, Niger State, from 1980 to 1984, and then proceeded to Government Science College, Kagara, Niger State. He went on to Kaduna Polytechnic from 1984 to 1993 where he earned an associate degree in Agricultural Engineering.

But it wasn’t just the classroom that shaped him; his father’s extensive library, filled with political literature from Eastern Europe, ignited his passion for social change. Books on socialism and leftist politics became his tools for understanding the world, especially the oppression brought about by military dictatorship.

Influenced by figures like the legendary Aminu Kano and other community leaders, particularly his mother, Sani’s education was not only formal but is deeply rooted in activism. This intellectual foundation paved the way for his later contributions to Nigeria’s pro-democracy movements.

A Voice for Democracy

Shehu Sani’s political activism began long before he became a senator. Before the election that took him to the Red Chamber, he had been a fiery student leader and advocate for democracy, rising to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s as a critical voice against military rule. He was also an active member of the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and played a pivotal role in organising pro-democracy movements. His work with the CD saw him serve as Northern Coordinator and National Vice-Chairman, while also collaborating with prominent activists such as Femi Falana (SAN) and the late Beko Ransome-Kuti.

Sani’s activism came with great personal cost. His outspoken resistance to military regimes led to several arrests and imprisonment. His release from prison in 1999 coincided with the beginning of a new chapter for Nigeria as the country transitioned to civilian rule. This also marked a new beginning for his political ascent.

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