THE DESPERATION PLAYBOOK: HOW POWER HUNGRY POLITICIANS UNDERMINE NIGERIA’S PROGRESS.
A quiet but strategic political reshuffle is underway within the coalition now steering the African Democratic Congress (ADC). While high-profile names such as Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Rauf Aregbesola, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi stir public attention, the real contest within the coalition points clearly in one direction—the North. Yet, it would be neither politically wise nor nationally unifying to assume power must return to the North in 2027, especially when zoning has been instrumental in preserving the fragile balance of Nigeria’s democracy.
Despite their popularity in the public domain, neither Obi nor Amaechi possesses the leverage to win the ADC presidential ticket. The internal framework of the coalition heavily favors a Northern candidate whose primaries victory appears all but settled.
Rotimi Amaechi, lacking any formidable base beyond his core loyalists, seems more focused on political survival than principle. It is not far-fetched to predict that he would abandon any alliance for personal gain. Unfortunately, this mirrors the mindset of several actors within the coalition—chasing positions rather than pursuing national purpose.
Peter Obi, on the other hand, commands a strong following in the Southeast and the diaspora. Yet, his individualistic approach and controversial political history make him an uneasy choice for Northern power brokers. His recent one-term presidency proposal suggests desperation rather than strategy. His past electoral rhetoric—widely perceived as divisive—still casts shadows over his credibility.
What the coalition seems to be doing, knowingly or not, is leading Obi into a political cul-de-sac. Should he fail to clinch the ticket and attempt to jump ship again, the fragmented support base he once enjoyed in the South-South and Middle Belt may no longer follow. That weakening is deliberate—and strategic.
But the bigger issue is this: this coalition is not built on a vision for Nigeria. It is a convergence of ambition, not patriotism. None of these so-called gladiators has a consistent record of national development, whether in or out of power. True nation-builders don’t wait for elections to act—they contribute, regardless of the spotlight.
Most unfortunately, it is increasingly disheartening to witness the growing cracks in Peter Obi’s much-publicized development record—claims that once inspired enthusiasm but are now facing serious scrutiny. As more Nigerians revisit the facts behind his self-promoted legacy, doubts continue to emerge, casting a long shadow over his personal credibility. In politics, trust is everything—and when trust begins to erode, it becomes nearly impossible to reclaim.
This credibility crisis is not a minor issue; it strikes at the very heart of why Obi struggles—and will continue to struggle—to earn the confidence of a broad national audience. A politician who cannot withstand the weight of his own narrative will find it difficult to convince a nation seeking honest, proven leadership.
This is why Nigerians must remain vigilant. Opportunists and power-seekers are regrouping, repackaging themselves under new banners. But Nigeria is not for sale. Leadership is not a consolation prize for ambition. It is a sacred responsibility meant for those with genuine commitment to national progress.
In contrast, the current administration remains focused. With each passing day, concrete achievements are unfolding. The groundwork is being laid for sustainable transformation—not quick fixes. This journey may require patience, but its destination promises real dividends for Nigerians.
The future belongs not to those who shout the loudest, but to those who serve with integrity, even when no one is watching.
Hon Aare Segun Olulade
Founder Eleniyancares Leadership Foundation.
