Democracy and Nigeria’s Poor Succession Process

The pinnacle of Nigeria’s leadership crisis lies in the arrogant stance of outgoing elected officials who claim to represent the people by selecting their successors. History shows that this practice is rarely about preserving a developmental legacy—often nonexistent—but about safeguarding personal wealth and evading accountability.

As the 2027 general elections approach, Nigerians are already feeling the pressure. The electoral process is causing disruption, but not in the constructive way democracy intends, which is to challenge authoritarian tendencies.

For months, the government has linked rising insecurity—draining communities and families—to the political ambitions of its rivals. It is widely known that once the election cycle begins, governance deteriorates, giving way to incompetence and ineptitude.

This pattern of inept public officials selecting their successors is not new. Nigerians have witnessed the fallout of such maneuvers before, yet the problem remains deeply troubling.

In Nasarawa State, for example, incumbent A. A. Sule’s public endorsement of Aliyu Wadada has fractured the ruling party and plunged the state into chaos at a time when focus should be on governance and civic engagement.

Similar tactics have appeared in Gombe and Kwara States, where governors who have had little impact over eight years feel entitled to decide who will continue their legacy.

Such behavior is not only odious and objectionable but also a gross abuse of power. When a public officer neglects their primary duty and redirects state resources to install a protégé, democracy is imperiled.

Governors often seek to place their cronies in office because they possess incriminating evidence and believe that their protégés can better shield them from prosecution. A stark example occurred in Kogi State in 2023 when a former governor was succeeded by a close ally. When the EFCC pursued the former governor for economic and financial crimes amounting to billions of Naira, the new governor went to extraordinary lengths to protect his benefactor.

Nigeria cannot continue down this deplorable path. Leadership should reflect the will of the people, which is the essence of democracy. Allowing inactive governors to override the electorate’s choice by installing their successors betrays the principles of free and fair elections that underpin democratic governance.

At all times, Nigerians must be able to elect representatives who will be held accountable when they fail.

Ike Willie‑Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com.