An All Progressives Congress APC chieftain, Mr Henry Idahagbon, has called on Nigerian political leaders to put an end to godfatherism, warning that the practice poses a serious threat to the country’s democracy.
Idahagbon, who represents Edo, Ekiti and Ondo States at the Federal Civil Service Commission, made the call during an interview with journalists in Abuja on Sunday.
He described godfatherism as a negative concept that is largely unique to Nigeria, noting that while influential political figures exist across the world, the Nigerian version has caused deep political instability.
According to him, advanced democracies such as the United States have political leaders whose opinions can influence electoral outcomes, but none operates in a manner as destructive as godfatherism in Nigeria.
Idahagbon cited Edo and Rivers States as examples where the practice has had damaging consequences, saying both states have witnessed some of the worst cases of godfather politics in the country.
He recalled the political crisis between former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole and his successor, Godwin Obaseki, describing it as a clear illustration of the dangers associated with godfatherism.
“At the height of the crisis, Oshiomhole was practically declared persona non grata in a state he governed for eight years. There were times he had to be escorted from the airport to his residence under security,” he said.
He further alleged that Oshiomhole’s convoy was attacked on several occasions and that there was an attempt to attack his residence during the period.
The APC chieftain also referred to the ongoing political tension in Rivers State, alleging that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory continues to exert pressure on Governor Siminalayi Fubara because of his role in his emergence.
Idahagbon, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Edo State, stressed that political leaders should disengage completely from power after leaving office.
He said former governors and presidents should not attempt to impose successors, adding that such actions are often motivated by the desire for protection after leaving office. “If leaders govern well and leave behind clean records, there will be no need to determine who succeeds them,” he said.
He cited Abia State Governor Alex Otti as an example of a leader whose performance could speak for him after leaving office. Idahagbon called for the adoption of the principle of one man, one vote, urging Nigerians to reject godfatherism because of its negative impact on the political system.
He added that the campaign against godfatherism should become a national movement aimed at strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
[NAN]