Godfatherism in Nigeria is declining as governors defy political mentors, signalling a shift in loyalty and power ahead of the 2027 elections
As preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections gain momentum, political analysts say the influence of godfathers is steadily eroding, with governors increasingly asserting independence from the mentors who propelled them into office.
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Across Nigeria, defections, internal crises within parties such as the PDP, LP, NNPP, ADC, and emerging rifts within the ruling APC are dominating the political landscape.
However, the decline of godfatherism has captured growing public attention.
In Kano State, the alliance between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his political mentor, former governor and NNPP leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has sharply deteriorated.
Reports suggest Yusuf may defect from the NNPP to the APC, despite Kwankwaso’s opposition.
Political insiders indicate arrangements are already advanced, with January 12 set as a possible “deal” date.
The dispute has spilled onto social media and split Kano’s political structure, with commissioners, lawmakers, and local government chairmen choosing sides.
The NNPP has already replaced the state chairman, Hashimu Dungurawa, a Kwankwaso ally, with Abdullahi Abiya, loyal to Governor Yusuf.
Kano State Commissioner for Information Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya called a potential defection “a blessing” for the state, noting that it could improve federal projects and resources for Kano.
In Kaduna State, tension has developed between former governor Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani.
Allegations of financial mismanagement and subsequent investigations have highlighted fractures between the former benefactor and his protégé.
El-Rufai has since joined the ADC, while Sani remains in the APC.
Similar but quieter tensions are emerging in Jigawa State between Governor Umar Namadi and former governor Badaru Abubakar, with political observers predicting a potential “clash of the titans” ahead of 2027.
Rivers State has also experienced high-profile conflicts, with former governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara entering a public confrontation that included impeachment threats and eventual defection by Fubara to the APC.
Political undercurrents, however, suggest the dispute continues to simmer.
Historically, godfather-protégé conflicts are not new in Nigeria.
Examples include Aminu Kano and Governor Abubakar Rimi in Kano (1982), Lamidi Adedibu and Governor Rashidi Ladoja in Oyo (2006), and Attahiru Bafarawa and Aliyu Wamakko in Sokoto, illustrating a recurring pattern of loyalty breakdown.
Experts see the decline of godfatherism as beneficial for Nigerian democracy.
Professor Kamilu Sani Fage of Bayero University said the practice thrives on personal gain rather than public interest, and its erosion allows elected officials to govern independently.
Yet some political actors, such as PDP spokesperson Umar Kyari in Jigawa, maintain that godfatherism remains intrinsic to Nigerian politics, though mentors should allow elected officials autonomy post-election.
ADC governorship candidate Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil argued that many politicians rely heavily on guidance and support, warning that breaking loyalty to a benefactor can be morally questionable.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, analysts expect more confrontations between godfathers and protégés.
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While the decline of godfatherism may signal a reshaping of power structures, it is clear that political loyalty is increasingly contested.
