Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged second-term governors to be cautious when choosing their successors. Speaking at the commissioning of the first 30 kilometres of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in Lekki on Saturday, he warned that picking successors just because they show loyalty or kneel before them could lead to betrayal.
Akpabio spoke before a gathering that included President Bola Tinubu, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, Finance Minister Wale Edun, Works Minister Dave Umahi, and several second-term governors like Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos). He emphasized that governors should prioritize vision over loyalty when selecting who will lead after them.
“We have a president who combines sight and vision, and our governors should follow this example, especially those in their second term,” Akpabio said. “Do not give power to someone who seeks it for the wrong reasons. Avoid those who kneel just to please you or act overly subservient. Such people often lack the preparation needed to govern effectively. They will disappoint you, and that is where betrayals start.”
The Danger of Godfatherism in Politics
Akpabio’s warning touches on a long-standing issue in Nigerian politics: godfatherism. Many outgoing governors try to control who succeeds them by pushing loyalists into power. They want to keep influence even after their terms end. Though some have succeeded, these alliances often break down. Successors sometimes clash with their former mentors, causing political crises.
The Senate President encouraged governors in the All Progressives Congress (APC) to focus on choosing successors with clear vision and leadership skills. He stressed that good governance depends on leaders who can build lasting progress, not just on loyalty or personal ties.
Akpabio’s advice serves as a timely reminder. Nigeria’s democracy needs leaders with foresight and commitment to serve the people beyond political games. Choosing the right successor could shape the future of the states and the nation.
