Delta’s Strategic Leadership Vs. Rivers’ Godfatherism: Navigating The Dangers Of Political Control In Nigeria

Nigeria’s political landscape has often been dominated by the practice of godfatherism, where former governors maintain control over their successors, manipulating them to serve their own interests long after leaving office. This system, while offering short-term political continuity, has ultimately harmed the growth of independent political leadership in the country. Delta and Rivers States provide a striking contrast in how power is transferred and controlled, with Delta offering a more progressive model and Rivers highlighting the destructive influence of political godfathers.

From the return of democracy in 1999, Delta and Rivers States have experienced a series of political handovers, with each succession offering unique insights into the influence of outgoing governors. Delta State, in particular, has seen a relatively smooth transition of power from James Ibori, who served as governor from 1999 to 2007, to his successor Emmanuel Uduaghan (2007-2015), and then to Ifeanyi Okowa (2015-2023), who now stands as the predecessor to Sheriff Oborevwori. Rivers State, on the other hand, has witnessed a more turbulent power dynamic, with Peter Odili (1999-2007) handing over to Rotimi Amaechi (2007-2015), who then passed the baton to Nyesom Wike (2015-2023). Wike has been unwilling to relinquish his influence over his successor, Siminalayi Fubara.

In Delta State, the handover of power has been marked by political stability and strategic alliances. James Ibori, despite his own political and legal troubles, ensured that his chosen successor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, would carry forward his political legacy. Uduaghan, although loyal to Ibori, gradually established his own political identity, marking the beginning of a more mature political transition in Delta. When Uduaghan’s tenure ended in 2015, Ifeanyi Okowa took over the reins. Okowa, while benefitting from the support of his predecessors, managed to navigate his own path, bringing a new dimension of governance.

The transition of power in Delta State exemplifies political maturity. Ifeanyi Okowa, who served as governor from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023, handed over to Sheriff Oborevwori in a seamless manner. Okowa, despite wielding considerable influence in Delta politics, has shown restraint in interfering with Oborevwori’s administration. Their relationship is more of a strategic alliance than one of control, allowing the new governor to implement his vision while benefitting from the mentorship of his predecessor.

ALSO READ: Soludo’s Enhancement Of Anambra’s Culture Of Academic Excellence

This approach reflects a broader understanding of leadership that transcends personal ego and power. Okowa has wisely recognized that his legacy will be stronger if Oborevwori succeeds on his own terms. Rather than dictate the new governor’s every move, Okowa has allowed him to lead, creating a partnership that emphasizes continuity and stability without sacrificing autonomy. This has fostered a sense of political maturity in Delta, rather than internal power struggles.

In contrast, Rivers State presents a much different narrative, one steeped in the harmful effects of godfatherism. From Peter Odili to Rotimi Amaechi and later to Nyesom Wike, the pattern of succession in Rivers has been fraught with tension and political domination. Odili, who served as governor from 1999 to 2007, initially positioned Amaechi as his successor, but a power struggle nearly derailed Amaechi’s rise. Despite these early tensions, Amaechi ascended to power and ruled Rivers from 2007 to 2015. His tenure was marked by fierce opposition from his political rivals, most notably Nyesom Wike, who served as Amaechi’s chief of staff before breaking away to chart his own political course.

Wike, known for his brash and confrontational style, took over as governor in 2015 after a contentious election. His eight years in office were characterized by his aggressive political maneuvers, bold governance style, and, at times, outright rascality. He not only consolidated power within Rivers but also became a national political figure, using his influence to shape decisions far beyond his state. However, his greatest flaw has been his refusal to relinquish control after leaving office in 2023.

Since stepping down as governor, Wike has continued to dominate Rivers politics through his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. Fubara, who succeeded Wike on May 29, 2023, has struggled to establish himself as an independent leader, as Wike’s influence looms large over his administration. Wike’s behaviour reflects the worst aspects of godfatherism, where former governors refuse to step aside and allow their successors to govern freely. Despite being appointed as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by the federal government, Wike has refused to let go of Rivers, regularly interfering in state matters and attempting to control key decisions.

Wike’s continued grip on Rivers politics is damaging not only to Fubara’s administration but also to the state’s political stability. Rather than allowing Fubara to chart his own course, Wike’s constant interference has created confusion and division within the ruling party. The situation in Rivers underscores the harmful effects of godfatherism, where former leaders refuse to allow their proteges the space to grow and govern independently.
Wike’s tenure from 2015 to 2023 was characterized by his firm grip on Rivers politics, which he attempted to extend over his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. However, the recent local government elections in Rivers State marked a significant shift. The Action Peoples Party (APP) emerged victorious, winning 22 out of 23 chairmanship positions. This outcome was seen as a major blow to Wike’s influence, as it indicated a loss of control over the state’s political machinery.

Governor Fubara’s ability to regain control amid the rift with Wike was pivotal. The elections showcased Fubara’s growing influence and the diminishing power of his predecessor. This shift in power dynamics highlights the potential for a new era in Rivers State politics, one that could move away from the entrenched system of godfatherism and towards a more autonomous and independent governance structure.

Godfatherism, as seen in the case of Wike and Fubara, has done significant damage to Nigeria’s political system. It breeds a culture of dependency, where successors are beholden to their predecessors and unable to make decisions in the best interests of the people. This undermines democratic governance and prevents the emergence of strong, independent leaders who can drive progress and development.

The broader implications of godfatherism in Nigeria’s political system are profound. When former leaders continue to control their successors, it erodes public trust in the democratic process and stifles political innovation. New leaders, like Fubara, are left unable to fulfill their mandates, as they are constantly undermined by the very people who were supposed to support them. The cycle of dependency created by godfatherism prevents the emergence of dynamic, independent leaders who can bring fresh ideas and solutions to the country’s challenges.

In contrast, the partnership between Okowa and Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta demonstrates that there is a better way. By allowing his successor to govern independently, Okowa has not only ensured the continuity of his own legacy but also strengthened Delta’s political system. Oborevwori, in turn, can build on the foundations laid by Okowa while implementing his own vision for the state.

Okowa and Sheriff, the strategic duo versus Wike’s stronghold on Fubara, aptly captures the divergent paths taken by Delta and Rivers States. Delta’s strategic approach to power transition has fostered political stability and growth, while Rivers’ continued struggle with godfatherism threatens to derail its progress. The future of Nigeria’s political system depends on breaking the chains of godfatherism, allowing new leaders to emerge and govern with independence and vision.

Sir Divramredje Lawrence Efeturi, KSJI, ASCIEPUK.
(a public affairs commentator, writes from Delta State.)