The Stupefying Height of Godfatherism in Nigerian Politics: Gov Ahmed Ododo’s Shameful Subservience
By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo
Nigeria has long been plagued by the dominance of godfatherism in its political landscape. The power and influence wielded by these political godfathers have reached stupefying heights, leaving democracy in shambles. The recent developments in Kogi state, with the newly sworn-in governor publicly acknowledging his subservience to his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, raises grave concerns about the erosion of democratic values. It is time for the people of Kogi to confront this disgraceful act and reclaim their state.
Theatrics in Nigerian Politics
Nigeria has become synonymous with absurdities in its politics, exemplifying the “Theatre of the Absurd.” No political act seems too outrageous, surreal, or impossible for Nigerian politicians. Godfatherism, a long-standing practice, has only exacerbated the situation. Godfathers exercise control over their godsons, dictating appointments and securing lucrative contracts for themselves and their loyalists. Lagos serves as a prime example of this phenomenon, with its godfather-controlled political machinery.
Kogi’s Shameful Subservience:
In a disturbing video recently circulating on social media, Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi state unapologetically informed a crowd that any instructions he gives as governor should be disregarded if they contradict the wishes and aspirations of former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello. This revelation is significant, as Bello just concluded two consecutive terms in office and supposedly left the governorship days ago.
Hear him,
“Obey the former Governor’s Office rather than mine,” Governor Ododo asserted emphatically.
“If I issue an order, and it conflicts with one from former Governor Yahaya Bello, please disregard mine and adhere to the former governor’s instructions. Whether it’s a matter of which direction to take or any other decision, prioritize the directives of the former governor over mine,” he emphasized.
Under this arrangement, all former commissioners from Bello’s administration have been reappointed, indicating the continuity of his control. Moreover, Bello’s nephew, who is embroiled in a pending fraud case with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was appointed as the Chief of Staff to the Governor. This flagrant display of nepotism and disregard for ethical governance is deeply disturbing.
The Erosion of Democracy:
The practice of a recently elected governor abdicating responsibility to his predecessor undermines the principles of democracy. By taking on the role of a mere puppet, Ododo has shown contempt for the trust and faith placed in him by the people of Kogi state. The autonomy and independence of the governor’s office have been effectively dismantled, rendering promises made to the electorate meaningless.
Calling for a Bold Response:
It is incumbent upon the people of Kogi state to rise against this display of undignified subservience and reclaim their state. This shameless act undermines their voice and enslaves them to the whims and desires of an unelected individual. The people must gather their courage and confront Yahaya Bello, the godfather who seeks to manipulate and control their political landscape to his advantage.
Conclusion
The stupefying height of godfatherism in Nigerian politics has reared its head once again, this time in Kogi state. The subservience of the newly sworn-in governor to his predecessor is a shocking testament to the erosion of democratic values. The people of Kogi must not succumb to this disgraceful act and must take a stand to reclaim their autonomy and assert their rights. Nigeria cannot continue to be a Theatre of the Absurd; it is time for a new narrative, one that champions democracy, accountability, and freedom from the suffocating grip of godfatherism.
By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo ( The StoryTeller)
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