*Bad time for godfathers in Nigeria*
By Abdulrazaq Hamzat

Last week, former National Chairman of All Progressive Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole became the latest godfather to be cut to size in Nigeria.

The former Edo State Governor's attempt to remove sitting Governor, Godwin Obaseki was resisted by the people of the state, who have now voted Obaseki for a second term.

In 2019, Kwara State also ended the reign of its long time godfather, Bukola Saraki, who was thoroughly defeated across the 16 local government of the state. In the Otoge (Enough is Enough) inspired political revolution, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq was voted in as governor, ending the 40 years reign of the Saraki's dynasty.

In Ogun State, former Governor, Ibikunle Amosun failed in his attempt to install a successor. The same thing happened in Imo State, where Rochas Okorocha was prevented from having his way, likewise in Oyo, where opposition candidate, Rotimi Makinde defeated the Ajumobi led ruling party.

Further more, the strong man of Kano State and leader of Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso was equally defeated by his former deputy, Abdullahi Ganduje and the same thing repeated itself in Akwa Ibom, where Godswill Akpabio's reign as godfather was brought to an end.

Even the likes of former president Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalam Abubakar who prided themselves as Nigeria's godfather were rendered powerless in 2019.

Similarly, In 2015, the likes of Rotimi Amaechi had been defeated by Governor Wike, while Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu emerged against the wishes of some godfathers.

From what we have seen so far in the past few years, it is obvious that the business of godfatherism cannot last in Nigeria and any godfather in the country is only operating on injury time. Sooner or later, they will be shown the exit door.

It is true that the likes of former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is still enjoying the devidend of godfatherism in Lagos state, but whether this will continue beyond 2023 will be determined by time, because indeed, it is bad time for godfather's in Nigeria.

*Abdulrazaq Hamzat*