Political godfathers weigh on Nigeria's 2027 election
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on IOL
Networks of unelected political leaders, known as "godfathers", play a major behind-the-scenes role in Nigeria's election expected in a few months. The phenomenon is particularly visible in the oil-producing state of Rivers, where a dispute between a governor and a former political backer is fuelling a crisis, according to IOL.
Influential political figures nicknamed "godfathers" play an important role in preparations for Nigeria's 2027 presidential election, supporting candidates and seeking to retain influence over appointments and public decisions, IOL reports. President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking a second term, is himself described as the "godfather of Lagos".
In Rivers State, rivalry between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his political mentor, former governor Nyesom Wike, has led to a political crisis. Parliamentarians supportive of Wike have launched several impeachment proceedings against Fubara, according to IOL.
Legal activist Henry Ekine believes these figures sometimes seek to exercise direct control over their protégés rather than limiting themselves to providing electoral support. In the case of Rivers, the state has the fifth-largest number of registered voters in Nigeria and is due to host a Bola Tinubu rally soon, IOL reports.
