The chameleon politics of Godswill Akpabio: A symptom of a deeper Nigerian malaise

In Nigerian politics, few figures embody opportunism as blatantly as Godswill Akpabio. Once hailed as a “performing governor,” he now epitomizes political inconsistency. His shifting loyalties—from praising Goodluck Jonathan to idolizing Muhammadu Buhari and now Bola Tinubu—expose a disturbing trend. Clearly, his allegiance lies not with the people but with power. This behavior reflects a broader crisis in Nigeria’s leadership.

In 2015, Akpabio claimed Jonathan transformed Nigeria like no other. By 2019, he declared Buhari the “best president ever.” Today, he applauds Tinubu for “fixing a decayed nation.” These contradictions reveal a man devoid of principles. Consequently, his actions mirror the wider rot in Nigeria’s political class. Indeed, self-interest consistently trumps national progress.

The Erosion of Integrity in Nigerian Politics

Akpabio’s career highlights a glaring integrity deficit. In functional democracies, leaders uphold their values despite pressure. However, Nigerian politicians often trade principles for power. For instance, Akpabio’s ever-changing praises suggest a man obsessed with relevance. Sadly, this transactional mindset plagues the entire system.

Moreover, his behavior underscores a systemic failure. Nigerian politics rewards opportunism, not ideology. Thus, leaders prioritize survival over service. As a result, sycophancy flourishes while statesmanship fades. Ultimately, this culture harms the nation’s development.

The Danger to Democracy

Akpabio’s antics threaten democracy itself. When leaders prioritize personal gain, public trust erodes. Consequently, citizens grow cynical and disengaged. Worse still, unchecked flattery kills accountability. Without consequences, deceit becomes the norm.

Furthermore, this cycle stifles progress. How can Nigeria solve insecurity or economic woes when leaders chase favor, not results? Clearly, the nation cannot thrive under such hypocrisy. Therefore, change is non-negotiable.

The Role of Citizens in Demanding Better Leadership

Citizens must break this cycle. For too long, Nigerians have excused political deceit. Now, voters must demand integrity. Specifically, they should question candidates’ true motives. Do they serve the people or themselves?

Additionally, scrutiny is essential. By tracking promises versus actions, Nigerians can reject opportunists. Likewise, celebrating principled leaders will shift the narrative. Together, these steps can restore accountability.

A Call for Ideological Clarity

Nigeria lacks ideological clarity in politics. Parties often serve personal ambitions, not policies. Hence, politicians like Akpabio switch sides effortlessly. To fix this, parties must embrace clear principles.

Furthermore, institutions must nurture ideology-driven leaders. Only then can Nigeria escape personality-driven politics. Consequently, the nation will cultivate leaders of conviction, not convenience.

The Way Forward

Nigeria must confront its systemic flaws. First, voters must punish dishonesty at the polls. Second, civil society and media must expose hypocrisy. Finally, citizens must reject sycophancy and demand competence.

History will judge leaders by their legacies. Will they be remembered for integrity or opportunism? The choice is Nigeria’s to make. Now is the time to embrace truth, accountability, and progress. Only then can the nation achieve its potential.

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