GROpinion
What a newcomer must know & do to win elective position in South East Nigeria
By Anayo M. Nwosu
There are many young people out there desirous of contesting for various elective positions in Nigeria in order to make the desired difference.
Unfortunately, many of them especially those from the South East region don’t know how to go about it. I have striven to assist by penning down the following:
UNDERSTANDING THE TERRAIN:
The Igbos live in families. A handful of related nuclear families make up Umunna which is the primary organisational structure in Igbo land.
Umunna is headed by a natural Obi who is usually the first son of the patrilineal families that joined to form the Umunna. The obi’s father must have been a first son. However, an obi while alive could pronounce any of his sons his successor. Upon death, the pronounced becomes the obi and shall be succeeded by his first son was disinherited by his own father.
The Obi is like the ceremonial head of the Umunna or a union of extended patrilineal families. There is also an elected chairman and other executives who together with the obi rule the ụmụnna.
A handful of related Umunnas makes a community.
A community, like an Umunna, is governed by an Obi with elected executives headed by a president fondly called President General or PG. The community obi is the first son of the first Umunna regarded as the first son of their progenitor.
One or few communities are grouped as a ward depending on the constituent population.
Based on the population as delineated by electoral body, a ward or group of wards produces a councillor for the local government.
Each ward could have one or more polling stations depending on the population of registered voters.
Related communities make up a quarter or a larger community.
Some larger communities or quarters, in some states like Imo, have been elevated to autonomous communities which is equivalent to a town.
A union of quarters makes up a town which has a natural or selected traditional ruler known as Igwe, Eze or Obi. Together with the traditional ruler, the town union executives led by a president governs the town.
A town or a group of towns makes up a local government area (LGA).
The local government is governed by a chairman working together with elected councillors.
A local government chairmanship candidate must win the majority votes cast in his/her LGA and must also win 1/3 of votes cast in at least 2/3 of council wards.
In Nigeria, a state is an agglomeration of local government areas. There are 774 LGAs in Nigeria.
The population size of a local government area determines how many state legislators it would produce while a local government or more consists a federal constituency which produces a member of Federal House of Representatives.
All the local governments in a state are grouped into three zones namely: north, central and south senatorial zones. Each zone produces a senator and no state produces more than three senators.
In state elections, a governorship candidate must win the majority votes cast in his state and one-third of votes cast in 2/3 of the local government areas of his state. Also, the presidential candidate must not only win the majority votes cast in the whole country but also must win 1/3 of votes cast in 2/3 of the states of the federation.
WHERE THE WORK LIES
A newcomer to politics must do some ground work. Depending on his or her target political office, an aspirant must make a list of the names, phone numbers and addresses of all the Obis and Chairmen of every Umunna in each community in every town. He/she should also have a database of all the Obis and political heads of each Community, Quarter, Autonomous Community or Town. He should be in contact with them as out of touch is out of touch is out of votes.
A smart aspirant should include in his/her database, the details of former elected presidents of the Communities, Quarters and Town unions. They may be out of office but could be very influential.
The above mentioned are the building blocks of the electorates regarded as barracks that remains when “soldiers or politicians come and go”
A serious aspirant in a state like Anambra would have to start early to meet with all mentioned strata of the electorates. Starting with the traditional rulers, town union executives, community obis and their executives, obi Umunna and their executives.
The aspirant must approach each stratum as afore listed with minimum of two cartoons of beer, one cartoons of soft drinks and a bottle of good hot drink.
Let no newcomer be shocked if the same electorates he or she is planning to redeem ask for rice, salt, tomatoes or even raw cash. They have been used to such since 1957. Spraying money during campaigns is a tradition in South East and elsewhere in Nigeria. One can lose an election in some areas because he refused to provide the essential commodities.
Recall that had to feed the 5,000 to drive home his message. That singular act attracted more followers the next day. Remember that after eating to their fill, the appreciative crowd wanted to crown him a king there and then. He had to disappear to avoid that.
However, the aspirant needs to make his message very clear and sweet to the ears. During each visit to the stakeholders, he would introduce himself properly and talk about his manifestoes which must include a solution to a nagging or general problem of the hosts. Hence the need for a thorough research.
The aspirant should request to address the whole assembly of Umunna if the target political post is House of Assembly or Local Government Chairman or to meet with the entire community if the aspiration is for House of Representative or Senate or even Governorship. A paid town crier is usually at his service.
Quarter or Community level general assembly address is very effective after all the traditional and political heads have been visited in their homes in what Igbos called “ịkpụpụlụ okpu” or “doffing the cap” or paying due respect to the deserving.
These courtesy meetings and the gifts require money and vehiclar logistics which the aspirant must find means of financing.
Fundraiser and crowd funding from people who believe in the message of the contestant would come handy. It would be very difficult for a young man or woman with a mission not to ask for financial assistance for the mission.
The aspirant should have a representative or co-ordinator at the Ụmụnna or Community level. If he is lucky to pick a loyal, hard working and responsible rep at this level, who energetically canvass for him, the job is half done. In most cases, the representatives or agents across the electoral constituency, as known as structure, need to be paid some allowances for transport and personal requirements even if they work as volunteers.
Aside from his agents or pointsmen, there are scattered in all towns, many influencers from various communities and a smart aspirant must have a list of them.
One may not be able to convert these opinion leaders or influencers but they must be spoken to for support.
A serious aspirant must have a list of all the owners of beer parlours in a town and devise means to reach out for their support. They are the surest sources of intelligence or critical political information.
THE CHURCH FACTOR
The biggest unregistered political parties in Igbo land are the religious bodies. For instance, anyone who makes an enemy of Catholic Church in Imo, Anambra and Enugu States can never win any election through free and fair means.
The faithfuls rarely disobey their bishops and parish priests.
A detailed politician should have a list of all the parish priests of churches of different denominations at the archdeaconry or deanery levels. The men of God no longer mind their ecclesiastial businesses. They must be met either privately or publicly at their functions to plead for their understanding.
The aspirant should ready to appear godly and must prove prior financial support for the church or promptly demonstrate one.
OBAMA STYLE
An aspirant could raise an army of youths, mostly students and unemployed to canvass support for him or her in their various villages.
An aspirant should download the voters register whenever INEC publishes it and use technology to reach the electorates via SMS and direct phone calls. He must maintain call centres manned by volunteers or paid staff who shall daily engage voters.
Jehova Witness method of house to house campaign to voters on INEC register makes serious sense. Each voter spoken to is ticked off and be called at at least twice before election day.
From INEC records, less than 250,000 votes are all that is required to win a governorship election in the south East and a little less for legislative positions.
One should not overly rely on this modern approach due to the near primitive setup of our clime but some votes could be garnered from such efforts.
RRELIANCE ON GODFATHERS
There are everywhere in Igbo land, many political heavy weights who over the years, have built election winning structures in their towns. They also have influence all over their senatorial zones or state.
These godfathers have all the heads of Ụmụnna, Community and Towns on their payroll. They also have many opinion leaders at their beck and call. Some are on monthly salaries. They award scholarships and settle medical bills of their fellow citizens. They announce or advertise such good deeds for accolades. Some of them are employers of labour and are generally regarded as go-to chiefs. People normally would ask them who to vote for and they gladly make choices for them.
It is difficult to win a constituency where these chieftains are holding sway.
Late Lamidi Adedibu and Late Oloye Saraki of Oyo and Kwara respectively typified life godfathers that have a statewide influence.
We all know the living godfathers in our localities. They boast about it and are easy to identify.
An aspirant who needs to win in the areas under the firm control of the political fixers must go beg them or “pụọ rụ isi anị” to the votelords or would be disgraced.
These votelords control machinery of terror and have a way of getting INEC to employ their stooges as adhoc staff during elections to help them achieve their objectives. They are so powerful to influence the postings of law enforcement agencies heads in their various states or area commands.
When a man promises or collect huge funds from a political party or contestants to deliver his constituency, note that the man is a votelord.
The only way to neutralize the godfather is by liquidation via federal might or by death. But they don’t usually succumb to bullets or to matchete wielding assassins as they are highly fortified. They have odeshi and ọdụ ụna and can only die naturally.
However, an aspirant could scheme to get to his political destination through the help of an outgoing incumbent as President Yar’Adua’s, Abia’s Gov. Okezie Ikpeazụ, Anambra Gov Willie Obiano and Enugu’s Gov Ugwuanyi. In this case the incumbent would lap or carry a newcomer on his back, foot all the expenses, get the support of all key stakeholders to get the newcomer elected.
A newcomer like Imo’s Ugwumba Uche Nwosu might not be that lucky chiefly because of the baggage of his sponsor and the fact that Catholic Church and notable principalities feel insulted and have decided not to see that happen.
WHEN DETERMINATION PAYS
Seeing the enormous work or uphill task they need to climb to win an election, the hitherto zealous young persons either back out as “lazy youths” or kowtow to the votelords or godfathers who get them to swear to dangerous oaths and evil agreements.
Those youths who are lucky to have been appointed to federal appointments could have it easier by either using the federal terror logistics to cow the votelords or get the president or the state governor to negotiate with the godfather on their behalf. Some oil wells, juicy contracts or a simple blackmail would do the trick.
Given the state of our enlightenment and political awareness, it would be very difficult for a self promoted youth to immediately declare to contest for an elective position and win in the first year of trial. The desiring aspirant needs to start early enough to build own structure.
It requires work hard.
More crucially, a newcomer must invest in ways of gathering evidence of rigging by opponents . Investment in mystery camera and infiltration of votelords’ camp would be rewarding in court.
Vigilance is also key because the godfathers resort to rigging when they notice that their candidates are losing. They must deliver or risk being demystified.
There is nothing wrong in organising an army of young people to watch out for thugs who come to snatch ballot boxes. The thugs could be given a corrective beating.
All things being equal, the message is that an aspirant needs to identify all the religious, traditional, social and economic units in his electoral constituency and devise ways of conveying his message.
Two to four years of preparation may be required except if the aspirant is ready to be compromised or be helped by votelords and at a huge cost.
The important thing is for an aspirant to come up with plans and a message. Who knows? The electorates might be hooked up to the message earlier than envisaged.
But the message must resonate and cut across all religious, ethnic and sectional divides for it make desired impact.
Let that articulate, charismatic, resourcesful and dogged youth stand up and be counted. That youth who is excellent in achieving great results through people is the one that can succeed.
Columnists
Atiku Abubakar’s Coalition on a Path to Failure after Struggles
By: Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
In Nigeria’s political landscape, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition stands as a significant challenger to the status quo but faces challenges like internal disputes, regional divides, and distrust among stakeholders. To succeed, the coalition must present a clear economic vision resonating with an informed electorate. Fostering unity, transparency, and inclusivity while addressing internal conflicts and regional disparities will enhance trust and strengthen its position in Nigerian politics.
Atiku Abubakar is leading a coalition of major political parties, including the APC, PDP, and Labour Party, to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The coalition aims to tackle regional insecurity and economic issues, which Atiku believes the current government is mishandling. In response, President Tinubu is employing a carefully crafted strategy, termed a divide-and-rule approach by some analysts, to weaken this coalition. However, analysts suggest that Nigerians are increasingly focused on economic solutions rather than divisive politics.
Political analysts assert that Atiku Abubakar’s coalition faces immense challenges, indicating it is “dead on arrival.” Atiku Abubakar’s coalition is plagued by internal conflicts, particularly between him and Peter Obi over leadership and the presidential candidacy. Regional divisions have weakened the coalition, with the PDP losing influence in the South-South and South-East to Obi’s Labour Party. Trust issues persist as members question Atiku’s motives and whether the coalition serves a collective purpose. Amid Nigeria’s economic and political instability, the coalition struggles to gain support and maintain unity, highlighting the need for cohesion to navigate upcoming challenges, especially ahead of the 2027 elections.
Public opinion plays a crucial role in the success of political coalitions like Atiku Abubakar’s, influencing political dynamics significantly. Support from the public can enhance a coalition’s credibility and momentum, making it a stronger alternative to the current government. As politicians are attuned to public sentiment, aligning coalition goals with public concerns can motivate them to join or support the coalition. Positive public opinion leads to greater media coverage and supporters while mobilising essential resources for campaign efforts. Ultimately, electoral success depends on the coalition’s ability to connect with voters, making it imperative for Atiku’s coalition to engage with and address public concerns effectively.
Prioritising youth engagement, economic growth, and sustainability is essential for any administration aiming for progress. With Nigeria’s large youthful population, active involvement can enhance political participation, spark innovation, and build a strong workforce. Addressing the youth’s needs through targeted policies on education, job creation, and inclusivity is crucial.
Additionally, focusing on economic development is vital to tackle unemployment, poverty, and regional disparities, requiring policies that promote entrepreneurship and attract foreign investment. Emphasizing sustainability ensures economic progress while protecting the environment; this includes investing in renewable energy and eco-friendly technologies. President Tinubu’s commitment to these areas is key to fostering a more inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable Nigeria.
It’s an interesting perspective that Atiku Abubakar’s coalition might be seen as a distraction rather than a genuine attempt to address Nigeria’s challenges. In the digital age, where information flows rapidly and citizens are more informed, such strategies can indeed face significant hurdles. Here’s an expanded view on why this approach might struggle and what could be more effective:
Challenges of Distraction Politics in the Digital Age:
In today’s digital age, Nigerians have greater access to information through social media and online news, making traditional political diversion tactics less effective. This increased transparency allows citizens to monitor government actions closely and hold officials accountable. The youth, who are active online, prefer practical solutions over distractions, highlighting the need for meaningful policies to drive genuine progress and change.
Effective Strategies for Democratic Development:
Focusing on economic empowerment through sustainable initiatives such as job creation, small business support, and investment in technology can significantly improve citizens’ well-being. Enhancing education and skills for youth prepares them for the job market and strengthens the economy. Inclusive governance that addresses regional disparities fosters national unity and stability. Additionally, promoting environmental sustainability through green technologies and renewable energy ensures long-term prosperity and a healthier future for everyone.
Inspiring Examples:
Digital innovation has transformed governance and public services in Estonia, highlighting transparency and efficiency. Nigeria should adopt similar strategies to enhance its performance. Youth-led initiatives are crucial for economic growth and support young entrepreneurs. The tech industry in Nigeria is booming, with start-ups gaining global recognition.
Community engagement is vital for effective political movements, requiring grassroots involvement to address diverse needs. Leaders who connect with communities foster strong support, essential for successful governance. Nigeria can build a brighter future by embracing innovation, empowering youth, and engaging communities.
Distraction politics may have worked in the past, but the digital age requires more transparency. By focusing on real solutions and engaging with an informed electorate, leaders can foster democratic development and a brighter future for Nigeria.
Atiku Abubakar and his coalition have faced challenges in developing winning strategies. Let’s examine some democratic perspectives on the reasons behind this and potential alternatives.
Challenges Faced by Atiku Abubakar and His Coalition:
Progress in Nigeria’s political landscape hinges on overcoming formidable hurdles such as the lack of a unified vision, deep-rooted trust deficits, and intricate regional and ethnic divides. The coalition must navigate complex agendas and historical disappointments to present a cohesive front and inspire confidence among voters. Addressing Nigeria’s diverse societal scope requires inclusive strategies that bridge demographic disparities and deliver tangible solutions to pressing economic and social woes. By forging a unified vision, rebuilding trust, and fostering cohesion among varied communities, the coalition can chart a path towards transformative change and sustainable development in the nation.
Engaging Democratic Views:
To succeed, a coalition must first establish a unified vision that transcends individual ambitions and resonates with the broader public. Rebuilding trust is key, requiring transparency, accountability, and consistent communication to demonstrate a commitment to democratic principles. Inclusivity in policymaking is vital, necessitating engagement with diverse groups to address regional and ethnic needs effectively. A strong focus on the economy, with clear and practical plans for job creation and infrastructure investment, is essential for garnering voter support. Additionally, prioritizing youth engagement through education, skills development, and political participation initiatives can ensure a more inclusive and sustainable political strategy.
Inspiring Examples:
Building grassroots movements is essential for a coalition’s success, as local networks create strong support. Digital campaigns via social media and online platforms can broaden the coalition’s reach. Collaborative leadership fosters voter confidence, as united leaders convey solidarity and commitment.
Atiku Abubakar and his coalition have struggled to meet essential foundational criteria. Despite the challenges they face, there are effective strategies they could implement to enhance their prospects. However, various reasons limit their ability to adopt these strategies. Instead, they should foster unity, trust, inclusivity, and economic development. By doing so, they can craft a compelling vision that truly resonates with the Nigerian public.
In conclusion, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition is at a pivotal moment, with the potential to either reshape Nigerian politics or struggle with its challenges. To succeed, the coalition must present a unified vision that resonates with all Nigerians. It needs to rebuild trust through transparency and accountability while addressing the diverse needs of the country’s various regions and demographics. By focusing on economic empowerment, youth engagement, and sustainable development, the coalition can provide a compelling alternative to the current administration. In a time when voters seek genuine solutions and meaningful change, the path to success lies in tackling the real issues facing Nigeria and engaging the public in a transparent and inclusive manner.
GROpinion
Insecurity In Zamfara – Hold Lawal Accountable, Not Matawalle
Writes Nasiru Aliyu, Media Advisor to the Hon. Minister
The recent protest organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akida Forum raises significant questions about political motivations and accountability.
Led by Musa Mahmoud the APC AKIDA group staged a demonstration at the Abuja headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding an investigation into the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amid allegations linking him to banditry in the state.
The protest, predominantly featuring hired women and youths from Abuja, was framed as a response to escalating security concerns in Zamfara.
However, the underlying motives appear to be rooted in political rivalry rather than genuine concern for public safety.
The leader of the APC Akida Forum Tijjani Ramallan claims that Governor Dauda Lawal has accused Matawalle of collusion with bandits, suggesting that such ties have perpetuated the insecurity plaguing the region.
A critical point overlooked by Mahmoud and his supporters is that Matawalle is no longer the executive governor of Zamfara.
The current governor, Dauda Lawal, now holds the title of the state’s chief security officer, and therefore, he bears the primary responsibility for addressing the security crisis.
Instead of engaging in a blame game, Lawal should focus on implementing effective strategies to combat the rampant insecurity and provide the dividends of democracy to the people of Zamfara state.
The animosity towards Matawalle seems to stem from his previous role as the Director General of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign in the Northwest, where he played a pivotal role in securing significant electoral support for the current president.
This success has reportedly fueled envy among some political figures like Tijjani Ramallan, including Musa Mahmoud and others who may feel threatened by Matawalle’s rising profile.
It is noteworthy that allegations against Matawalle have been investigated by the National Security Adviser’s office, which found no evidence to support claims of his involvement in banditry.
This investigation contributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Matawalle in his ministerial position, where he has reportedly managed security matters in the Northwest with professionalism.
Adding to the complexity of this situation, a Kano High Court recently issued a restraining order against Governor Lawal and others, prohibiting them from continuing their smear campaign against Matawalle. This legal development underscores the court’s recognition of the potential harm caused by unfounded allegations and the need for accountability in political discourse and the state government has found an ally in APC AKIDA led by Tijjani Ramallan.
Despite the court’s intervention, Governor Lawal continues to leverage media platforms to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation, linking him to banditry and corruption without substantiating evidence.
Such tactics appear to be desperate attempts to undermine Matawalle’s credibility, likely motivated by Lawal’s desire to solidify his political standing.
The ongoing campaign against Matawalle by Lawal and his associates raises serious concerns about the integrity of political discourse in Zamfara.
It is imperative for the public to remain vigilant against misleading narratives and to recognize the broader implications of such political maneuvers.
The Kano High Court’s ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the need for responsible governance.
In conclusion, the focus of accountability in Zamfara should shift towards Governor Dauda Lawal, who now holds the reins of security in the state.
Instead of casting blame on former officials, Lawal must take ownership of the security situation and work towards tangible solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of the people of Zamfara.
Furthermore, since Matawalle operational visit to sokoto led to the elimination of Bandit leader Halilu Sububu who is alleged to have died with the treasure of the sponsors of banditry in zamfara state, the pain propelled them to further embark on campaign of calumny.
The recent activities of some individuals with one Davids Iyida attempting to sabotage the MoMo Payment Service Bank project intended to benefit, especially Enugu Ezike people, have raised significant concern and outrage within the community.
Such actions aimed at undermining a project with immense potential to uplift and empower the people of Enugu Ezike can only be described as malicious.
The MoMo PSB project is designed to bring financial services closer to the people of Enugu Ezike, facilitating easier access to banking and financial transactions.
This project is expected to create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and provide a much-needed boost to the local economy. In a region where such opportunities are rare, the MoMo PSB project represents a beacon of hope for many residents.
It is particularly baffling and disheartening to witness a member of the community collaborate with outsiders to hinder the progress of their own people.
The reasons behind such alliances remain unclear, but the impact of these actions is evident and deeply troubling. Working to obstruct the project is not only delaying progress but also actively working against the welfare and advancement of Enugu Ezike.
The efforts to destroy Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu’s good intention, despite all the positive contributions he has made, are nothing short of wickedness.
Adonu, a visionary entrepreneur and the leading MTN Partner in the South East, has dedicated significant resources and efforts to bring the MoMo Payment Service Bank project to fruition.
His vision for the community includes economic growth, financial inclusion, and overall development. Attacking his vision is an attack on the progress and future of Enugu Ezike.
The question that lingers in the minds of many is: Why sabotaging our own benefits? In a time when unity and collective effort are paramount for the community’s advancement, such actions of sabotage are counterproductive and harmful. The community needs all hands on deck to drive development and improve the quality of life for its residents. Internal conflicts and malicious actions only serve to set back these efforts.
Despite the challenges and the malicious attempts to derail the project, it is important to reaffirm that S Mobile Group vision for establishing a MoMo Payment Service Bank in Enugu Ezike will prevail.
The community stands behind this vision, recognizing the immense benefits it promises to bring. Efforts to hinder progress will ultimately fail in the face of collective determination and support.
The actions of these ungrateful individuals, aimed at sabotaging the MoMo PSB project, are grave disservice to the community of Enugu Ezike.
In a time when progress and development are desperately needed, such malicious activities are deeply regrettable.
However, the vision and determination of Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu and the community’s support ensure that the project will succeed, bringing much-needed growth and prosperity to Enugu Ezike.
Let it be known that no amount of sabotage can dim the light of progress and unity.
Nwodo, a public commentator writes from Enugu State
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