The ruling party is going into the election from a position of strength, contends
Nigeria’s elections, especially of the presidential brand, is only marginally a function of performance, competence or legitimacy. It’s a fierce struggle either of ascendancy or for supremacy. Between the APC and the motley of opposition parties bracing for the January 2027 presidential poll, there is hardly any space for altruistic motives. What is currently playing out in the political field is
contest for power shaped in varying degrees by personal ambition; group solidarity, geo – ethnic competition, civic engagement as well as religious/ideological loyalties.
When general Yakubu Gowon was overthrown as Head of State, July 29, 1975, it was not because life was hard for Nigerians. On the contrary, Nigeria was a Paradise at the time. The naira was almost twice the dollar in value, with one dollar exchanging for sixty-five kobo. Food was cheap. Workers received car and housing loans for the asking. The operation against Gowon revolved around power interests. The north central state – born general was seen to be personalising the throne by sitting tight for nine years. Others who invested in the July 1966 conspiracy that brought him to power wanted a piece of the benefits too.
