GODFATHERISM AND GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA FOURTH REPUBLIC EXPERIENCE Chinnah Promise Chinwe
Ph.D Scholar, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, RUMUOLUMENI Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria
Abstract- Godfatherism in Nigerian political system has been a matter of serious discussion and concern for many years as it‟s impart is of great concern to democracy and national development since the beginning of this fourth republic. Godfatherism has existed in Nigerian prior to independence but has changed dramatically in its approach and operations in this fourth republic. This paper gave a detail conceptual analysis of godfatherism and good governance. The paper made use of secondary data and adopted Elite theory as its theoretical framework using content analysis. The paper examined why godfatherism has been on the increases despite constitutional provisions, electoral laws and reforms for free and fair election. The nexus between godfaherism and governance was established. The study revealed that godfatherism is a cog in the wheel of democracy and development; it is inimical to democratic ethos and ethics, it is against good governance and development, it encourages mediocrity in governance, leads to corruption, embezzlement, frictions, litigations, destructions and defection which are not good for democracy and development. The paper concluded with recommendations on how the menace of godfather can be curb in Nigeria not only in the political arena but in all other field of human endeavor which includes, sensitization and reorientation of the masses, strong institutional framework , accountability and transparency, political parties to be founded by government and nomination form money be reduced, independent of electoral body and the judiciary, strong anti graft agency to monitor the political elites activities strictly.
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The concept of godfatherism is not new in Nigeria it has been in existence prior to attainment of political independence on 1st October, 1960 with good intent of mentorship and grooming for better personality that will pilot the affair of the new independent nation Nigeria. For instance late Pa Awo was a god father to Anthony Enahoro, Bola Ige and Bisi Akande in the southern part of the country same applied to other regions. Godfatherism is not a recent phenomenon in Nigeria politics, it was a strong instrument employed by most nationalist to disengage the colonial masters from government and groom Nigerians for replacement. (Ishaku and Jatua 2014) Godfatherism as at them had a very positive impact in the political system with no intent of personal selfish interest or diabolic motives of self aggrandizement. The political climate in the fourth republic witness a dramatic change on the operations and approach of godfatherism which potent great danger to democracy and development of the country as masterminded by some military cabals and few civilians.
Democracy is a game of number where majority rules in theory its operations in Nigerian is different, it is where few wealthy political elites rules by hand picking, sponsoring and ensuring that their candidates wins in all elections. The Elites have rendered democracy useless as they act like godfather in nomination of candidates and they ensure that their candidates win the election using all instrumentalities at their disposal including violence and killing. Godfathers circumvent the will and wish of the masses and expect high returns from their godson. Politics according to David Easton (1965) is all about authoritative allocation of values. Godfathers are only interested in the allocation of values and resources of the state, since they determine who wins in any election and who gets appointment they also determine who gets what, when and how from the resources of the state as the godson is there as puppet. This is tantamount to modern political colonialism worst than imperialism.
The relationship between godfather and godson was examined; and the governance system seen under their headship explained. The relationship is not equal as a son will remain a son and loyal to his political godfather. The godfather uses intimidation, threat, influence and other instrument to maintain the unbalance relationship forever. Democracy is been mortgaged, godson encumbered and electorates disillusion, as godfathers circumvent the wishes of the masses to their personal will and interest in all most all
elective positions and political appointments, with the intent to determine how the resources of the state are to be shared. Godfatherism is an investment in Nigeria.
Ohiole and Ojo (2016) posited that godfatherism is based on political substitution relating to financial and moral aid where the god father is the main donor and the godson as primary receiver as a result the common man people are being destabilized with no dividends of democracy.
2. STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
Democracy as a form of government is practiced by many federal states, it is good for a heterogeneous pluralistic society like Nigeria for speedy development considering all resources both human and material, reverse is the case as our democratic institutions and system is enveloped with crises and aberrations that are antithetical to development.
Nigerian democracy and electioneering processes is nothing to write home about as the nation is still plagued with chains of problems, wallowing with poverty and other features of underdevelopment orchestrated by bad governance as a result of godfatherism. The abuse on democracy has created room for bad governance which is of serious concern to any political scholars and other reasonable concern citizenry that are not beneficiary of the undemocratic aberrations. Nigerian democratic system is yet to bear good fruits for the consumption by the masses as a result of the following factors, rigging, corruption, killing, defections, destructions, and other anti democratic vices orchestrated by godfathers. The study will address the continuous increase in the activities of godfatherism in our political arena. The relationship that exists between godfather and godson will be examined and the reasons why democracy is yet to yield its dividends since 1999 till date? The study will focuses on the eminent dangers facing godfatherism. The fruitlessness nature of Nigeria democratic system is a problem which this study will investigate. The high rate of electoral violence in Nigeria and factors responsible for it will be investigated. The bag governance system as masterminded by political actors and gladiators in power and their godfathers is the major concern of this paper.
2.1 Research Questions
1. What are the factors that accounts for increase in godfatherism in Nigeria democracy.
2. Is there any relationship between godfatherism and governance?
3. What are the possible implications of godfatherism in the socio- economic and political development of Nigeria?
4. Are there solutions to the problem of godfatherism.
2.2 Objectives of the Study
The broad objective of this study is to ascertain and examine critically the relationship among godfather, godson and governance in Nigeria focusing on the fourth republic experience. Specific objectives includes,
i. To identify factors militating against good governance in Nigerian.
ii. To examine the relationship between godfatherism and governance.
iii. To identify the implications of godfatherism, and proffer probable solutions on how it can be controlled.
2.3 Significance of the Study
The study will add and support to already existing literature on the subject matter of godfatherism and governance. Finding from this study will help to educate the electorates mostly our youths that are used as tools by godfathers during electioneering period just for their selfish interest.
Policy makers and bureaucrats will find this study useful as it highlighted and illuminated on some issues which will serve as an eye opener in formulations and implementations of policies for better democratic and electioneering processes, electoral reforms and laws. Recommendations made in this study will be used to address the ugly menace of godfatherism that has hindered the growth and development in all area of life.
Electoral bodies and umpire, security agencies, observers will find this study useful. They will restructure strategize in their operations on how to conduct free and fair election, which in turn will usher in good governance in the nation.
Political gladiators, actors, electorates and other stakeholders will learn many things from the study as it has revealed some of the negative consequences and implications of godfathrism. It will enable people to uphold to democratic ethos and tenets and serve as a reference for other research on the subject matter.
3. LITERATURE REVIEW 3.1 Godfatherism
There are many definitions from scholars on the concept godfatherism. Ecclesiastically speaking god the father is a superior being capable of doing everything to his son. This simply means that where there is godfather there is also godson, god brothers and sister and gods soldiers. There are duties and obligations to be performed and fulfilled by all involve in the relationship and fellowship of godfatherism. Godfatherism has existed in Nigerian for a very long period prior to independence in all area of life not only in the political arena. Relating the above scenario to the political system, it means that there is a godfather which represent king makers, godson who is the direct beneficiary of the godfather as he or she is made the king, there are other people that exist, including soldiers that stand to protect the king and the son in time of crises.
Nigeria is a developing nation where politics is the major means to power and access to control resources of the state. There are available literatures on godfather but this work pays specific attention on the fourth republic experience. The first question to answer is who is a godfather? Edigini (2010.175) describe godfather as a human being who plays gods to his people. As a father provides all that is needed for his son to win an election .Godfather sees their support to son as an investment not as philanthropy. Abrahim (2011) defined godfather as a man that have the power personally to determine who gets nominated and win the election in a state. Nnamani (2010) Bassey and Enetak (2008) averred that godfatherism connote the power and influence of people who are politically relevant in deciding who gets nominated to contest election and eventually wins the election. The above definitions describe godfather as cabal capable of influencing and deciding who gets nominated and wins in an election. In the same vain Chukwuemeka, Ojo and Chukwurah (2013) posited that godfather are men who have the power and influence to decide both who gets nominated and to contest and win an election.
Bala and Tyoden (1987) deposited that that godfather comprises of coalition of strong socio-economic and political elites that shares similar value system, and under an organized structure. This means that in every society or organization there are people that determine what happens in that society or organization. The few that controls the society are referred to as the godfathers. Kolawole (2004) sees godfather as an institution of political king making through which certain political office holders of tenuous political clout come into power. Mbamara (2014) stated that godfather is the invasion of the political candidate by discarnate powerful sponsors, tending to complete possession for the purpose of selfish gratification. Godfathers are only interested in the resources appropriation and political appointment within the state and outside the state.
Ajayi (2005) posited that godfatherism is a king maker, boss, mentor and principal while godson is the beneficiary and recipient of the legacy of the godfather. He further stated that godfather is someone who has built unimaginable respect and followers in a community and possess a well- organized political platform and general acceptance from all and sundry. This definition is not too correct considering what we have seen in the last concluded elections as there were cases of frictions, strong opposition within the same political party leading to court cases, which denied a political party candidate for an election. A clear example is Rivers state APC during the last gubernatorial election they hadn‟t any candidate because of the issue of god fatherism. I defined godfatherism as an individual or group of persons that are antidemocratic in their operations, where democracy is circumvented and converted to minority rule using all the instrumentalities within their reach which includes, powers, influence, wealth, position, thugs and other aberrations, to place their preferred candidates in positions which is against majority interest with the sole aim to control resources of the state. Godfathers surround themselves with people that will always protect them and carry out their mission. They are not ready to empower their followers that act as their foot soldiers and perpetrators of election violence. They usually reach or have a very strong bound with their godson before the business is contracted;
sometimes they enter into the same secret society and other satanic diabolic oaths with their godson for them not to be disappointed in the sharing of the state resource.
Godfatherism is an undemocratic concept that is against development and democracy.
3.2 Governance
Governance can be defined as the exercise of power or authority by political leaders for the well –being of their people. Our Global Neighborhood (1995) defined governance thus “governance is the sum of the many ways individuals and institutions, public and private, manage their common affairs”. Okerengwo, 2010:149) defined governance as the process of exercising power and decision – making for a group, and include the processes by which such decisions are implemented or not implemented .From the definitions above governance is all about management and administration of people for the good of the people and the state. Governance can be measured and assessed to be either good or bad depending on the output and input at the short or long run as can be seen in the state or organization. This leads to another question, what is good governance?
3.3. What is Good Governance
UNDP (2005) defined good governance as the exercise of economic, political and administrative authority to manage a county‟s affairs at all levels. This includes mechanism, processes and institution through which citizens and group articulate their interest, exercise their legal right, meet their obligations and mediate their differences in pursuit of the collective good. Asian Development Bank (ADB 2009) Defined good governance as the manner in which power is exercised in the management of a country‟s social and economic resources as for development. It is referred to as the quality of the institution to make, implement, and enforce sound policies in an efficient effective and inclusive manner. World Bank (2004) defined good governance to mean promoting fairness, transparency and accountability.
Institute of Governance (IOG 2000) viewed good governance to mean an interaction among structures, processes and traditions that determine how power and responsibilities are exercised, how decision are taken and citizens or other stake holders have their say. It is basically about how power relationships and accountability, which has influence, who decides and how decision – makers are held accountable). Saliu (2012, 116) good governance means a governance environment that is inclusive, respects the right of the minority, it is accountable, transparent, efficient and effective, participatory, responsive, respects the rule of law and follows due process and is open and there is the existence of strong institution, not big men of power. Boeninger (1992) Posited that good governance has to do with the capabilities of a political system to exercise authority, will legitimacy, adjudicate conflict as well as carry out effective program implementation. Kukah (1998) averred that good governance is government that is responsible, accountable, and transparent in policy formulation and implementation.
From the above definitions of good governance one can infer without equivocation that good governance has been a serious problem in African nations and Nigerian in particular, considering the level of natural and human resources the nation is endowed with, and her level of underdevelopment. Nigerian as a nation since independence has suffered so much in the hands of the oligarchy that has piloted the affairs of the nation. Governance in Nigerian is purely centered on the interest of the few ruling elite since 1960. Good governance is what every nation desired to achieve for her citizenry apart from Nigerian where good governance is seem as a sin by those in power. The alarming rate of unemployment, insecurity, lack of social amenities, poor infrastructural
development, rotten educational system, epileptic power supply, poor health sector, sophisticated electoral malpractice, arson, robbery, killing, corruptions and other atrocious vices that has enveloped the entire nation. Asian Development Bank (2013) listed four basic element of good governance and five principles of good governance. The four elements include (a) Accountability (b) Participation (c) Predictability. (d) Transparency. The five principles of good governance are (1) Legitimacy and voice. (2.) Direction. (3.) Performance. (4.) Accountability. (5.) Fairness. In Nigerian the four elements of good governance is illusive.
Kofi Annah (2007) posited that good governance is ensuring respect for human right and the rule of law, strengthening democracy, promoting transparency and capacity in public administration. United Nation enumerated the following eight principles of good governance.
1. Participation; This principle states that people free to express their view, opinion through legitimate organization or representation.
2. Rule of law. Legal framework should be enforced impartially mostly on human right.
3. Consensus- oriented; this means mediating different interest to meet the broad consensus on the best interest of the community.
4. Equity and Inclusiveness; people should opportunities to improve or maintain their well –being.
5. Effectiveness and Efficiency: Processes and institutions should be able to produce a result that meets the needs of their community while making the best of use their resources.
6. Accountability: Governmental institutions, private sectors and civil organization should be held accountable to the public and institutions stakeholders.
7. Transparency: Information should be accessible to the public and should be understandable and monitored.
8. Irresponsibleness: Institutions and processes should serve all stakeholder 3.4. Theoretical Framework
Elite Theory in political science, public administration and in other field of study has been in existence for donkey years as they have been used successfully in analyzing issues and phenomenon in political science. Gaetano Mosca (1858-1941), Vifredo Pareto (1846-1923), Robert Michels (1876-1936) and Maxweber (1864- 1920) are major proponents of the Elite theory. In their respective explanations of the theory they consistently maintained that in every society there are two classes of people and that the few rules the majority because the few have outstanding achievement in so many things and thereby have superiority over those that don‟t have. That this few persons have always succeeded in exercising ruling functions, politically, economically, socially, over the vast majority. The few set of people are outstanding in everything, namely intellectual, material, even with high moral superiority hence they established their dominance over them.
This study is anchored on Elite Theory. What is Elite Theory? Wikipedia (2017) Elite is a small group of people who control a disproportionate amount of wealth or political power. It refers to people very few in numbers that have greater influence, authority, power to control and dominate others. Ekeh (1983) defined Elites as small members, who play an exceptional influential part in the affairs of society in specific field. He refers to them as decision makers whose powers are not subject to control by anybody in the society. Nnolin (1981) Stated that political Elites are those who have an influence in shaping the values and attitudes held by their segment of the society. Folola (2005) viewed Elites as those who are able to
realize their will even if others resist, and who have the most of what there is to have –money, power and prestige. Relating this theory to Nigerian nation, it is evidently that our political environment since independence both democratic and military has been dominated by the same Elites. The dynamics in political change has never effected the change in the class of people that occupy the political position .It has been the same set of people, the same aristocrats. The Elite has been there and will always be there if nothing drastic is done about it. Elite manipulates and dominate all the sectors in the nations. They use their resources and connections including state apparatus and institutions to get anything they wish to get in the nation. Frankly speaking election does not remove them from office or position, election is for the poor mass which does not represent their interest but represent the interest of the Elites. Elite have access to human and capital resources of the nation and decides how it can be shared among them. All elective positions are for the Elite ,all contracts are for them, all abandoned contracts and projects are done by them, all form of corruption are within them, all form of electoral malpractices are orchestrated by them, jumbos salaries are for them, the bad economic condition of the nation is for their benefits.
3.5. Features of Elite Theory
1. Elites as the name implies has always been small in number but mighty in power and influence. This means that democracy as a concept in society like Nigeria where they exist is a mirage.
2. Elites are highly organized and united. All the bickering you see among them is to exploit the poor and siphon public resources.
3. Elite exercise monopoly over power in all area of human endeavor in the society, and crush any opposition at all coast using their resources and influence.
4. They are very conscious and mindful of their interest no compromise is their mantra.
5. They are found in every society, group and association in Nigerian.
6. The iron law of oligarchy represent the Elites, they are interested in selection and manipulation not election knowing very well that they will lose if election is conducted in free and air manner.
7. Elites are realist in approach and orientation, to them idealism is meaningless.
8. Elites ensure that majority rule is not practice in Nigeria; majority rule is an abstract concept.
9. Power is limited to inter-elite.
10. The minority that rules get their original power through coercive power and manipulations.
The ten (10) points mentioned above are prevalent in Nigerian political scenario that is what is operational and obtainable in Nigeria. The few names have remained dominant in Nigerian political history at all level of government, the same cabal from pre-colonial era till date. The emergence of Alhaji Shehu Sagari as president was the product of Northern Myfia, not the votes cast by any of you reading this material. The coming of Olusegun Obansajo to power as a civilian president was decided by the few military heads of state and stakeholders in the military as a compensation for the Yoruba ethnic nationality to what happened to Late Abiola the acclaimed winner of June 12 presidential election. In furtherance of this fact the way late president Musa YarAdua emerged as the presidential candidate of PDP to the detriment of those that really spent their time (on lobbing, campaigning and canvassing,) energy and wealth, like Peter Odili and Donald Duke, to mention but few is a clear confirmation there is a very strong functioning elites in Nigeria. We all saw what happened to vice president Dr, Goodluck Jonathan when YarAdua died. It was grace of God that made him president that was why he lost when he re-contested despite everything he did to pacify the Elite.
The same groups of people have ruled Nigeria since pre-colonial era till date.
4. MEHODOLOGY
Data for the study was collected through secondary sources. The researcher made used of historical and descriptive analysis to examine and evaluate the relationship between godfather, godson and good governance. Thus secondary data like journals, textbooks, newspapers, government white papers, gazettes, online materials were reviewed and analyzed using content analysis.
5. DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
5.1 Godfatherism the Journey So Far in the fourt Republic
Nigerian democratic experience has so many bad lessons as people are yet to enjoy good governance from their leaders. Nigeria is rated 148 out of 180 countries with people living in extreme Poverty, Transparency International (2019) This potent a great danger to the nation and children unborn if nothing drastic is done to correct it urgently. The fourth republic experience is not in any way better than other republics. Godfatherism has serious influence and impact in the dominant major political parties that contested election in the fourth republic from 1999 till date.
Godfatherism were seen and noticed in all parts of the country with same approach and operation of controlling the government they have secured or bought for their godsons. It should be noted that some of this unequal relationship ended in cold war and serious struggles on who controls the resources of the state. For instance in Kwara state 1999-2003 Olusola Saraki and Mohammed Lawal failed out with each other after Lawal had succeeded in making him governor of Kwara state. In Enugu state from 1999-2010 godfather and godson fell out, Jim Nwobodo and Chimaroke , Chimaroke and Sullivian Chume. Amambra was not left out from the wind of godfatherism in 1999-2003 it was between Emeka Offor as god father and Chiwoke Mbadinuju as godson, Chris Uba and Chris Ngige. Oyo state it was between Lamidi Adedibu and Ladoja in 2003. In Kano state it was between Alhaji Abubakar Remi and Kwankwaso, in Lagos state Alhmed Tinubu as godfather Fashola as godson. In Bayelsa Saraki Dickson preferred candidates for PDP lost the governorship seat to APC because of godfatherism that led to internal frictions in PDP. The current underground battle in Edo state between Adams Oshiomole as godfather and the governor Obasaki is a pointer to many things and a warning to APC viewing from Bayelsa experience. There are so many examples too numerous to mention in the fourth republic. All the godfathers mentioned above used their money, power and influence both within and outside the state to ensure that their son contest and wins in all elections. From gathered date the only reason for frosty relationship is the financial resources of the state and political appointment. The relationship between god father and godson is not balance as the formal is seen as mini god by the later. Godfather enters into written or unwritten agreement with godson, including oath taken in a shrine or a secret cult on how resources of the state will be shares between two of them.
Godfatherism was operational in all the states of the federation, the
highest political office in the nation not left out. In 1999 Olusegun Obasajor
wining of presidential primaries in PDP and finally becoming the president
was purely the handiwork of godfatherism. Many formal military personnel
fronted him and help him to contest and win the election. He was not the
preferred candidates neither was he the best but a cabal gathered
nominated and assisted him to become the president just to calm tension in
the South West region over the annulment of June 12 presidential election
and the death of M.K.O Abiola the acclaimed winner of June 12
presidential election. Many military officers played the role of godfather for
him. The emergence and winning of the presidential seat by
late president Musa YarAdua was a big shock to many political actors, gladiators and the electorates to the detriment of those that really spent their time, energy and wealth is a clear manifestation of godfatherism. People like Peter Odili, Donald Duke, to mention but few. We all saw what happened to vice president Dr, Goodluck Jonathan when YarAdua died. It was grace of God that made him president that was why he lost when he re-contested despite everything he did to pacify the Elite.The 2019 presidential primary of the PDP which held in Port Harcourt that led to the emergence of Atiku Abubarka as the party flag bearer as a result of godfatherism . From available statistics and literature godfatherism has been on increase growing on a very geometric rate every day.
5.2 The Relationship between Godfather and Godson
The relationship that exists between godfather and godson is unbalance. The father is seen as father and sees the son as stooge or puppet who must take instructions from him, depend on him and accountable to him in terms of the resources of the state and its appropriation. It must be mentioned that the interest of the godfather is to make money and continue to be relevant in the scheme of things in the political arena. They invest their time, money, and other resources like connections, their influence and thugs to ensure that their preferred candidate emerges and wins the election. Godfather look at their anointed candidates as t heir subjects and that they are not experience in governance and administration.
To ensure t heir dominance many godfather initiate their godson into secret societies that has demonic and diabolic power to harm in cases of disloyalty. They made them take oath not to be disloyal. This creates fear in the heart of the godson. The case of Okija shrine in Anambra state is a clear case. Godfather rules the state directly and indirectly through the godson that act as a stooge.
Ahmed and Ali (2019.13) posited that the relationship between godfather and godson is based on political agreement (reciprocal relationship). This means that any candidates that will be sponsored must dance to their tone or face dangers of impeachment. All activities of godson must be in line with the interest of the godfather this is to sustain the political relationship Joe (2010.1-2). Ukhun (2014.16) posited that most of the contestant works with godfather‟s instructions;
they cannot execute any important project without the approval from the godfather.
This is dangerous to democracy and development.
The relationship between godfather and godson is like masters servant relationship. It is cordial purely base on yes from the godson who will not disobey his master in any form. It is modern day political slavery and colonialism. An attempt to say no to the godfather by the godson leads to conflict and serious friction in the state. It goes with many dangers on the part of the godson.
5.3 Why Godfatherism is increasing in Nigeria
Godfatherism has eaten deep into the fabric of Nigerian political system despite all the constitutional provision and electoral reforms to ensure that democracy prevails. These are reasons that accounts for increase in godfatherism,
1. Poverty- Nigerian is rated among the poorest nation in the world by Amnesty Internal (2018) report list Nigeria as 7th country with people with extreme poverty. Poverty rate is high the electorates are easily convinced to sell their votes to the godfathers with penults while credible co- contestants are bought with money by godfathers. The formation of political parties is rigorous and expensive only the rich can afford it, and when political parties are formed those that formed them are seen as stakeholders and owners of the parties
with their cabal. The cost of running for any elective post is so expensive that an average Nigerian cannot afford to sponsor him; hence he or she looks for people that have the financial resources and political influence to act as their godfather. Imagine nomination form for post of president is 45 million naria.
How many persons can raise such money?
2. Illiteracy .The rate of illiteracy in Nigeria is alarming people are not politically sensitized and educated. They sell their votes to godfathers and don‟t know the direct and indirect implications of their actions. Godfathers use our youths negatively as thugs, ballot box snatchers and other electoral fraud offences including killing and shooting. The youths are not educated, those that are educated are not empowered so they are used and dump by godfathers. Godfathers cannot empower them positively because if they do they will not have followers.
3. Lack of internal democracy within a political party has led to the circumventing of majority rule to godfathers rules. We have some political neologism in Nigeria like consensus candidates, party‟s choice, carry –go to mention but few.
4. Inability of electoral umpire to conduct free and fair elections. Independent National Electoral Commission has failed Nigerians many times, the security agencies and other bodies charge to conduct and monitor election has comprised so much to the will and wishes of the godfathers.
5. Poor institutional framework in the country, like judiciary and anti graft agencies.
6. The jumbo salaries and allowances paid to the politicians are enterprising as you know; Nigeria is a primitive society where political system and structure controls all other sectors in the state. Godfathers are interested in the state resources and its appropriations. The lucrative nature of politics in Nigeria where the winners takes it all is a motivating factor for all godfathers. They look it as an investment that yield with high turnover within a limited space of time.
7. Corruption.
8. The quest and zeal to remain in power and relevance by past political elites.
9. Protection of the Elites, The Elites they commit so many negative things when in power and when not in power to protect themselves from public opprobrium and prosecution they will fight took and nail to ensure that their candidates emerges and win in every election which will help to cover their wrong doing to the state.
10. Another reason why godfather is on increase is that they enjoy protection in all area of human engagement. Despite what happened in Rivers state during the gubernatorial election in Abonnema, Abua, Ahoada and in Khana on the election day nobody was arrested till date many died. They enjoy protection all round as they have the security agencies and judiciary on their sides.
They enjoy negative unconstitutional immunity. For instance in Anambra state, Chris Uba boasted “I am the greatest of all godfathers in Nigeria‟‟
Champion (2003) as cited by Familusi (2012) He was proud to say that that he can remove any of his political nominees who does not perform to his expectation. This is ridiculous as democracy and development is quarantined.
5.4 The Effect of Godfatherism
Godfatherism has done the nation more harm than good in all field of human endeavour. Nkwede, Ibeogu and Nwankwo (2014.18) pointed out that godfatherism in Nigeria in the fourth republic has made nonsense of democracy in the area of
making nonsense of truly free and fair credible electoral process in which voters by right are anticipated to freely elect people of their choice into public office to represent their interest. Godfatherism in their operations from A to Z runs contrary to democratic principles and ethos. Democracy has lost its values, dividends far from been actualized as government of the godfathers must be for the interest of the godfathers not the electorates. Chukwuma (2008, 87) averred that politics of godfatherism has a negative implication on the political arrangement of Nigeria and its citizens, he maintained that the right to select an aspirant of their choice to rule them is run down given the condition in which godfathers are deciders of whom is to contest or imposed candidates of their desire on the general individuals in the society. Godfather has denied many people the right to vote and be voted for through imposition of candidates and rigging of election. Godfatherism has made mockery of democratization process in Nigeria.
Godfatherism has led to crises ad conflicts. Edigini (2010; 69) posited that conflict arising from godfathers has become one of the greatest problems facing the Nigeria political system. This crises has led to breakdown of law and order in the state, burning of properties, killings and court cases every. For instance in Anambra state Uba Chris and Ngige. There was high tension in Anambra state as a result of godfatherism the conflict led to so many bad things. The relationship between godfather and godson leads to conflict when godson refused to be used and manipulated. Godfathers have thugs that fights for them with sophisticated weapons and when there is conflict of interest the thugs will swiftly swing into action to protect their boss. These thugs can do anything and get away with it because they have protection from their boss the godfather in all areas. When once there are crises between godfather and godson the result is calamitous. Example is the case of Kwara state between Lamidi Adedibu and Rashidi Ladoja. The friction causes so many negative things in Kwara state. It led breakdown of laws and order in the state creating palpable fear everywhere in the state which is not good for democracy and development. Omonigo et. al. (2015) averred that godfatherism are merchant of fears. They dispense violence freely and fully on those who stand on their way. They bribe electoral officers, security agencies. He went further to say that godfatherism is an investment with a colossal rate of returns; they are de-facto governors.
Godfatherism has led to recruitment of promising youths in secret societies where they will be trained to harden their heart to be used during electioneering process in shooting, killing and snatching of ballot boxes. Godfatherism has help to empower many youths negatively by buying them weapons of wars instead of positive empowerment. They are used and dumped by godfathers given peanuts as payment that cannot change their lives for better. Godfatherism has encouraged laziness, and promoted violence among our youths. Epia and Ikokwu (2003.67) link godfatherism in Nigeria with youth delinquency.
Besides, godfatherism in Nigeria has led to underdevelopment. The sole aim of godfather in politics is the appropriation of resources of the state. The resources of the state are been siphoned by godfathers through sharing, award of unexecuted contracts, compensation for sponsorship, loyalty from political appointments. All these resources could have been used for developmental projects in the state.
During crises the destructions and waist of both material and human resources is ten times backward step backward from development. Edigin (2010.78) posited that it is a known fact that no meaningful development can be achieved in an atmosphere of wars of attrition, crises and people who are perpetually and diametrically opposed to one another. Godfatherism has stagnated development in
Nigeria. Ohiole and Ojo (2016.6) stated that godfatherism crisis has affected the socio-economic and political development of the state.
Poor leadership is a bi-product of godfatherism, credible candidates are denied chances of contesting and wining as a result of godfatherism. Godfather‟s candidates have never been credible and will not be because godfathers will look for those they can control and manipulate. Godfatherism encourages mediocrity in the place of meritocracy. Stouts and miscreants are there in many states house of assembly. The national Assembly is not left out we have many comedians and
“agberos” as legislators, executives and in other political position with nothing to offer in as much as leadership is concern. Rotimi and Nwadiolor (2014) stated that godfatherism leads to poor leadership with attendant effect to development.
Nyewusira (2007) posited that bane of Nigeria‟s development is that critical institutions of government are superintended by a ruling class that lacks governance fitness and contract management culture?
Godfatherism leads to intraparty and interparty conflicts, party defections and decamping. (Okoli 2006.171) Ohile and Ojo (2016.2) godfatherism is a threat to Nigeria political culture, socialization and orientation. It has led t the abuse of constitutional and legal provisions.
5.5 Godfatherism and Good Governance
Governance system is determined by the relationship between the ruling class and the ruled. (Nnoin 2003, Nyewusira, 2007). It is sad to note that democracy has failed to yield its dividends in Nigeria since independence mostly in the fourth republic where standard of living get low every day and there is an astronomical increase in the price of goods and services. In the fourth republic our leaders, political actors and gladiators has failed us. Democracy has helped many nations not only to develop but to sustain the level of development they have attained. All most all the advanced countries in the world practices democracy. The advent of negative godfatherism in politics and its operations all over the country is not only a dent to democracy but a cog in wheel of development. Godfatherism has destroyed the joy, beauty and dividends of democracy as a system of government; it is meaningless and yields nothing as benefits to the common man.
Orekelewa (2014.14) godfatherism in politics hinders good governance in the country and adversely contributed significantly to the menace of corruption which not only posed a great threat to god governance but also to the socio-economic development and stability of democracy. Oluloyo (2014.3) observed that godfatherism requires a considerable grade of control of control over government not in order to support or form the government policy but to extract direct financial return in form of government resources stolen by their politicians to them to further opportunities for the implant. Godfatherism has led to bad governance in Nigeria from all indication based on the definition of good governance as stated above. Ibeanu (2008.10) observed that governance in Nigeria is creating affluence for the few, not about eliminating affliction for the many. Good governance is a mirage in Nigeria as godfathers have bastardized democracy and turned it to minority rules. The wishes and will of the people are circumvented and subverted by godfathers to their betterment and detriment of the masses. Ishaku et al (2014.38) averred that the relationship between godfather and godson can be describe as exploitative and a total subversion of the will of the people, godson are denied of their will power to rule and to govern as godfather dictates and determines whatever they do. He further said that due to the overbearing influence of the political godfathers, political office seekers are robbed of their independence thus they become mere surrogates and are conditioned that they become totally
subservient to their godfathers. It means that the godsons are only responsible and accountable to their godfather not to the electorate and the masses. Political office holders (godson) must first of all do everything humanly possible to pacify and satisfy their sponsors called godfathers through the appropriation of the state resourced to them which ordinarily should have been used for developmental project in the state. The sharing of state resources with the few cabal godfathers and godsons is against good governance. The people are not carried along, dividends of democracy is illusive. Mbamara ( 2004.143) posited that godfatherism invasion of the polity is for nomination of political candidates for the purpose of selfish gratification, that godfatherism is political slave trade, sponsorship based on political manipulation with several evil agenda. The godson must comply by fire by force any attempt of disloyalty in terms of the financial compensation and other request are vehemently rejected by the godfather with force using all his influence and instrumentalities. This has led to conflicts and distraction in governance.
Godfatherism has disorganized the state and its governance system. It has led to frictions, arsons, crisis and serious conflict in the society. For instance in Anambra state in 1999 Chief Emeka Offor (godfather) sponsored the governor of Chinmawoke Nbadinuju ( godson) two of them had problems over the allocation of the state resources, this led to crisis, friction, killings, and destruction of properties in Anambra state. The governor was distracted and the business of governance suffered greatly as no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of rancour. The same scenario was replicated in the same Anambra state between Chris Uba (godfather) Chris Ngige (godson) 1999-2007, the same case in Oyo state between Lamidi Adedibu (godfather) Rashidi Ladoja (godson) as governor to mention but few. Godfatherism is against democracy and development; good governance cannot be achieved under the undemocratic menace of godfatherism.
Good governance ensures freedom, equity, majority rule, people oriented projects, functional institutions, dues process, rule of law, transparency, accountability, making of choices in public interest for the health of a nation all these are absent in Nigeria democratic system. No wonder the nation is in endemic poverty despite all resources both human and material.
6. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 6.1 Summary
Nigeria political system is characterized and enveloped with chains of aberrations orchestrated as a result of godfatherism to remain in power forever and make themselves relevant in the sharing of the state resources. Nigeria is a primitive society where political sector determines all other sectors both the super and substructures are under the political system. Godfatherism sees their sponsorship of candidates as an investment that yields in hundred folds. Godfathers do everything for their godson to be nominated and ensure that they win election.
Godfatherism in Nigeria is a menace a cog in the wheel of development and governance. The adverse effect of godfatherism cut across all field of human engagement. There is nothing positive about godfatherism this saga needs to be dealt with decisively if this nation must move forward. Democracy is subverted and the will of majority circumvented to the will of godfathers, people are disenfranchising leading to mediocrity in the place of meritocracy.
6.2 Conclusion
This paper examined godfatherism operations and governance in Nigeria. It also explores its relationship with godson pointing out its implications not only to democracy but to the socio-economic and political development. Godfatherism has
killed the joy and dividends of democracy as a form of government, making mockery of the democratization processes. Electioneering process in Nigeria is characterized with aberrations. The relationship among godfatherism, godson and governance were explained. Good governance cannot be achieved in Nigeria unless the scourge of godfatheris is drastically reduced or eliminated. Godfatherism has a very strong hegemonic block using their resources, influence and thugs in achieving their personal desire. For socio-economic and political development of Nigeria, democracy should be practiced according to its tenets and ethos be enthroned against aberration which will usher in good governance and development in the country.
6.3 Recommendations
The researcher made the following recommendations on how to curb the menace of godfatherism in Nigeria political system.
1. There should be grass root sensitization and orientation of the masses, political actors and gladiators about the evils of godfatherism.
2. There should be electoral reforms with specific attention on true democracy and internal democracy. Review of the constitution in the section that has to do with democracy and good governance.
3. The formation of political parties is rigorous and registration expensive in Nigeria. Let registration fees for political party be reduced.
4. Nomination forms fee for elective position be reduced to fifty thousand naira.
Currently it is expensive for instance the position of president is 45 million naira.
5. The electoral reforms and constitution should make provision for independent candidates.
6. Immunity clause be removed from the constitution.
7. Electoral umpires, security agencies and other stakeholders in electoral issues should be independent in theory and in practice.
8. Salaries of elected political office holders and appointees be reduced, they should be paid like civil servants.
9. Electoral offenders be punished openly [ sponsors and perpetrators]
10. The judiciary be independent and proactive in their operations
11. Direct primaries be adopted and be made compulsory by all political parties.
12. Electoral voting is introduced with facilities put in place for its functionalities.
13. Political parties to come up with strong ideology before it can be registered, while those without sound ideology deregistered.
14. Transparency and accountability of all political office holders be made compulsory every three months let there be internal auditing.
15. Godfathers should be warned to desist from their selfish act or face the wrath of the law.
16. The laws should be applied to everybody irrespective of class.
17. There should be reduction on the numbers of political parties in the Nigeria.
18. The youths should be empowered positively this will reduce crime and criminality in joining thugs and cult groups to be used by godfathers.
19. If the above points are taken seriously, I think the issue of goodfatherism will be drastically reduced if not completely eradicated.
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