Nigeria Must Remain Vigilant: 2027 is Too Important to Be Taken for Granted – Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo

By Otunba Dr Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo (BOS)

The growing culture of political godfatherism, excessive influence, and the disturbing way some public office holders are beginning to carry themselves as though the destiny of millions of Nigerians rests solely in their hands.

No individual in a democracy should act as if he is above the people, above institutions, or powerful enough to determine who rises and who falls politically. Power belongs to the people, and public office is a temporary trust, not a throne, not a kingdom, and certainly not a licence for anyone to play God.

The recent political development involving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and the presentation of his Certificate of Return to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has generated serious questions and public concern. Whatever the political explanation may be, Nigerians must ask themselves: Why should the mandate and democratic victory of an elected governor appear to require validation, recognition, or presentation before another political office holder?

A Certificate of Return represents the mandate of the people through the constitutional electoral process. It is a symbol of the authority entrusted to an elected representative by the citizens. Nigeria must never create a political culture where elected leaders appear to owe their legitimacy to powerful individuals rather than to the people who voted.

This is not about personal hatred for Nyesom Wike, Ademola Adeleke, or any particular politician. It is about the future of our democracy. No politician should become bigger than the institutions of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. No political godfather should become more important than the votes of the people.

We have seen enough of the politics of promises without performance. Nigerians have endured hardship, insecurity, unemployment, rising costs of living and repeated assurances that tomorrow will be better while many citizens continue to struggle today.

As we move towards 2027, Nigerians must become more politically conscious than ever before. We cannot afford to vote based only on party slogans, ethnic sentiments, religion, money, propaganda, intimidation or the influence of powerful political godfathers.

We must ask every candidate and every political party difficult questions:

What have you done?
What exactly is your plan for Nigeria?
How will you tackle insecurity?
How will you create genuine employment?
How will you reduce the suffering of ordinary Nigerians?
How will you strengthen our institutions and protect democracy?

The APC-led administration and every other political party seeking power must be judged by their records, policies and results, not by empty promises. Nigerians must refuse to hand over another four years to leaders who cannot clearly demonstrate competence, accountability and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.

Let nobody deceive us again with beautiful campaign posters and sweet speeches. Nigeria needs results. Nigeria needs accountable leadership. Nigeria needs leaders who serve, not political emperors who expect elected officials and citizens to bow before them.

Our democracy must be bigger than any godfather. Our Constitution must be stronger than any individual. The vote of the ordinary Nigerian must matter more than the influence of a political kingmaker.

In 2027, let us vote wisely. Let us remain vigilant. Let us protect our votes. Let us hold every government accountable, regardless of party affiliation.

Nigeria belongs to Nigerians, not to a privileged few.

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