As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, political activities across the country have become more intense. Party defections, leadership crises, and internal disagreements now dominate the scene in major parties such as the PDP, APC, LP, NNPP, ADC, and others. Beyond these disputes, attention has shifted to the steady decline of political godfatherism, a system where powerful individuals install candidates into office and expect loyalty in return.
Since 2023, several governors who rose to power through the backing of strong political figures have begun to distance themselves from their former benefactors. Many of these leaders are asserting control over their administrations, even when it leads to serious political tension. This trend suggests that the old order, where godfathers dictated decisions long after elections, is facing strong resistance.
In Kano State, the political bond between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his long-time mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has weakened sharply. Reports indicate that Yusuf is considering a move from the NNPP to the APC, a plan strongly opposed by Kwankwaso. Despite the resistance, political insiders say preparations for the defection are already in progress. The disagreement has divided the state’s political structure, with commissioners, lawmakers, and party officials openly taking sides. The removal of the NNPP state chairman, seen as loyal to Kwankwaso, further deepened the crisis.
Kaduna State has also witnessed a major fallout between former governor Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani. The dispute became public after allegations of financial strain left behind by the previous administration. The situation worsened when the State House of Assembly accused El-Rufai’s government of financial misconduct and called for investigations. While El-Rufai later moved to another party, Uba Sani remained in the APC, setting the stage for political rivalry ahead of 2027.
In Jigawa State, tension between Governor Umar Namadi and former governor Badaru Abubakar has remained mostly quiet, but political observers say the relationship is under strain. Analysts believe the rivalry may soon surface openly as election plans gather momentum.
Rivers State presents one of the most intense cases. The clash between former governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara grew into a major political crisis that affected the State House of Assembly and local councils. Although reconciliation efforts followed Fubara’s suspension and later return, the conflict did not fully end. Fubara later joined the APC, but political moves by both camps suggest that the struggle for control in the state is ongoing, with impeachment efforts and 2027 calculations already in play.
Godfather-protégé conflicts are not new in Nigeria. Past cases in Kano, Oyo, Sokoto, and other states show that such alliances often collapse once power is secured. Political analysts argue that godfatherism conflicts with democratic principles and often leads to instability. Others believe that mentorship and backing are unavoidable in Nigerian politics, but insist that sponsors should step aside after elections.
As the 2027 elections approach, more clashes between political mentors and their former allies are expected. Whether this marks the end of godfather politics or simply a shift in how power is controlled remains uncertain. What is clear is that loyalty is weakening, and political authority is being openly challenged across the country.