As preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections gain momentum, the country’s political landscape is witnessing intensified activity. Party defections, internal crises within major parties such as the PDP, LP, NNPP, ADC, and fault lines even within the ruling APC are dominating the headlines. Yet, amid these developments, the steady decline of political godfatherism is emerging as a major theme.
From 2023 to date, several governors who initially rose to power through the influence, resources, and machinery of political godfathers are now asserting independence, often at significant political risk. In Nigeria, a political godfather is typically a powerful figure who installs candidates into office, leveraging money, influence, and structures, with voter alignment often guided by loyalty rather than policy conviction. Recent developments suggest this traditional practice is weakening.
Kano: Kwankwaso vs. Abba Yusuf
Kano State exemplifies this trend. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s relationship with his mentor, former governor and NNPP leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has deteriorated sharply amid reports that Yusuf plans to defect to the APC. Kwankwaso has openly opposed any such move, insisting Yusuf would not align with APC leader Abdullahi Ganduje under his endorsement. Despite this, insiders indicate arrangements for the governor’s move to the APC are advanced, with January 12 reportedly set as the “deal” date.
The fallout has extended to social media and the state’s political structure, with commissioners, lawmakers, and local officials choosing sides. The NNPP’s state chairman, Hashimu Dungurawa, loyal to Kwankwaso, was removed and replaced with Abdullahi Abiya, an ally of Governor Yusuf. Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, described the potential defection as “a blessing” for the state, citing the benefits of alignment with the ruling party for federal projects.
Kaduna: El-Rufai and Uba Sani
In Kaduna State, a similar rift has developed between former governor Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani. Tensions surfaced publicly in early 2024 when Sani accused El-Rufai of leaving the state in financial distress, allegations the former governor denied. Subsequent investigations by the Kaduna State House of Assembly into alleged financial improprieties have deepened the divide. While El-Rufai has moved to the ADC, Sani remains in the APC, setting the stage for a critical political showdown in 2027.
Jigawa and Rivers: Quiet Tensions and Showdowns
In Jigawa State, relations between Governor Umar Namadi and former governor Badaru Abubakar are reportedly strained, though largely subdued. Analysts predict heightened tensions as election preparations intensify. In Rivers State, the feud between former governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara has flared into confrontations involving the State House of Assembly and local councils. Fubara’s defection to the APC has not fully resolved the dispute, with lingering political undercurrents signaling continued instability.
Historical Context
Godfather-protégé clashes are not new in Nigeria. Historical examples include the breakdown of alliances between Malam Aminu Kano and Governor Abubakar Rimi in 1982, Lamidi Adedibu and Governor Rashidi Ladoja in 2006, and conflicts in Sokoto between Attahiru Bafarawa and Aliyu Wamakko. Such disputes have long influenced state politics across the country.
Expert Opinions
Professor Kamilu Sani Fage of Bayero University, Kano, argued that the decline of godfatherism is healthy for democracy, stating, “Wherever godfatherism exists, conflict is inevitable. Its decline allows governors to serve the people freely without undue interference.”
However, not all observers agree. Umar Kyari, PDP spokesperson in Jigawa, insisted that godfathers remain integral to Nigerian politics, though he added that they should step back post-election to allow governance independence. Similarly, ADC governorship candidate Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil emphasized that many politicians depend on mentorship and support to succeed, and breaking away from a godfather is often viewed as morally questionable.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the weakening grip of political godfathers signals a shift toward greater independence for elected officials, reshaping power dynamics at both state and national levels.
