Nigerian Politician Habits: How Power Ambition Shapes Their Actions

Editor July 17, 2025Last Updated: July 17, 2025

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By DAYO ADESULU

Nigerian Politician Conduct Exposed: What Really Drives the Average Election Seeker

It’s imperative to unmasking the behavioral pattern of an average Nigerian politician seeking elective role so that everyone could learn from the pros and cons of what it portends to our polity. You will agree with me that politics in Nigeria is deeply entrenched in the social, cultural, and economic realities of the country. Since the return to democratic rule in 1999, a peculiar behavioral pattern has emerged among politicians aspiring for various public offices. From the exalted seat of the President to the grassroots position of a local government counselor, certain traits—often troubling—cut across.

These behaviors are influenced by historical experiences, institutional weaknesses, and a lack of strong civic engagement. Understanding these patterns is essential for anyone interested in the Nigerian democratic journey.

Understanding the Political Terrain in Nigeria

Nigeria operates a federal system with three tiers of government—federal, state, and local. Elective positions at the federal level include the President, Senators, and House of Representatives members. States elect Governors and State Assembly members, while the local tier includes Local Government Chairmen and Counselors.

Each office presents varying levels of influence, but the behavioral characteristics of those seeking these roles often overlap. These similarities stem from systemic issues in the political ecosystem, such as lack of ideological commitment, monetization of politics, and weak institutional checks.

Pre-Election Behavior of Nigerian Politicians

Sudden Public Appearances and Grassroots Engagement

In the months leading up to elections, many politicians become unusually visible. They suddenly frequent churches, mosques, marketplaces, and social events—interacting with common citizens in ways they previously avoided. This “touch-base” strategy is meant to manufacture public goodwill.

Charitable Activities and Community Donations

A common tactic involves distributing food items, boreholes, transformers, or cash donations to curry favor. These acts, often publicized with media coverage, are designed to give an illusion of empathy, though they disappear once elections are over.

Use of Religion, Ethnicity, and Tribal Affiliations

Nigerian politicians are notorious for exploiting identity politics. Campaigns often center around tribal loyalty or religious solidarity rather than policy or ideology, thereby inflaming divisions.

Temporary Humility and Accessibility

Candidates suddenly become approachable, humble, and appear to “listen” to the people. They eat local food in public and use common transportation—all of which cease immediately after elections.

Campaign Strategies and Manipulations

Role of Godfatherism and Political Alliances

Many candidates do not rise on merit but through the backing of powerful political godfathers. These alliances come with strings attached and often determine how a politician governs if elected.

Use of Propaganda and Misinformation

False narratives, edited videos, and twisted facts are frequently circulated to either promote a candidate or discredit opponents. Truth becomes a casualty in the race for power.

Money Politics and Vote-Buying Tactics

This is perhaps the most visible sign of election malpractice. Candidates openly distribute cash to buy votes, a practice that continues to undermine the sanctity of the democratic process.

Character Shifts During Campaigns

Change in Personal Branding and Dressing

To appear relatable, politicians change their wardrobe, adopting local attire and traditional symbols. This sudden shift in personal branding is often a strategic move to appeal to rural voters.

Adoption of Populist Slogans and Fake Promises

Every election cycle features a new slogan—“Change,” “Next Level,” “Renewed Hope”—which rarely translates to real governance. Empty promises become campaign staples.

Political Defections and Cross-Carpeting

A disturbing trend is the ease with which politicians switch parties, not based on ideology but convenience. This shows a lack of principle and long-term political vision.

Behavior During Political Rallies and Media Engagements

Empty Rhetoric and Sloganism

Campaign rallies focus more on entertainment than policies. Politicians deliver speeches that lack substance, relying on slogans to excite crowds without addressing real issues.

Attack on Opponents Rather Than Issue-Based Campaigns

Rather than outline their plans, candidates prefer to tear down opponents through smear campaigns and personal attacks, further degrading political discourse.

Leveraging Fake Endorsements

Endorsements from traditional rulers, celebrities, or even fabricated groups are publicized to build false narratives of popular support.

Social Media and Digital Engagement

Mobilizing Online Trolls and Influencers

Many politicians hire social media armies to control narratives, drown dissenting voices, and project a false image of popularity.

Cyberbullying and Smear Campaigns

Opponents, journalists, and critics often face online harassment. Deepfakes and manipulated content are used as tools for digital warfare.

Use of Bots and Fake News Circulation

Automated accounts flood social media platforms with praise for candidates and fake news to confuse or mislead voters.

Election Day Behavior and Ethics

Voter Intimidation and Thuggery

Election Day in Nigeria is often marred by violence and threats. Political thugs—sponsored by desperate candidates—disrupt polling units, scare away voters, and sometimes injure or kill opposition supporters. This creates fear and contributes to low voter turnout, especially in conflict-prone areas.

Collusion with INEC Officials

Some politicians, in their desperation, seek to influence electoral officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to alter results or delay materials in opposition strongholds. While reforms have improved transparency, such unethical tactics still persist.

Ballot Snatching and Electoral Malpractice

Despite electronic accreditation systems, incidents of ballot box snatching, multiple voting, and falsification of results continue, especially in areas with weak security presence.

Post-Election Behavior of Elected Officials

Disconnection from the Electorate

Once elections are won, politicians often become inaccessible. Those who once begged for votes now erect walls around themselves—both literally and figuratively. Constituents’ calls go unanswered, and visits become impossible without layers of aides and protocols.

Sudden Inaccessibility and Arrogance

Many assume a sense of superiority and entitlement. They appear only during town hall meetings, often scripted and choreographed, rather than engaging in true dialogue with citizens.

Abandonment of Campaign Promises

Manifestos, if ever produced, are quickly forgotten. Basic campaign promises like healthcare reforms, youth empowerment, or road construction remain unfulfilled as politicians shift their focus from service delivery to personal enrichment.

Governance Patterns and Power Consolidation

Nepotism and Patronage Politics

Appointments are often based on loyalty rather than competence. Relatives, friends, and party loyalists are placed in key roles—whether or not they’re qualified. This undermines institutional efficiency and demoralizes professionals.

Misuse of Public Funds and Corruption

Audits, probes, and investigative journalism have consistently exposed large-scale embezzlement in every administration. Constituency projects are inflated, abandoned, or executed poorly by ghost contractors.

Lack of Transparency and Accountability

Many elected officials shun transparency. Budgets are opaque, contract awards lack competitive bidding, and accountability structures are often bypassed or weakened by executive interference.

Common Traits Among Politicians Across All Elective Levels

Self-interest over public good: Most politicians prioritize personal wealth, second terms, and political survival over governance.
Personality cultism: Followers often idolize leaders, turning politics into a messianic movement rather than a service-driven ideology.
Lack of ideology or party loyalty: Nigerian politicians treat political parties as mere vehicles—not platforms rooted in vision or policy.

The Role of Political Parties in Shaping Politicians’ Behavior

Candidate Selection Process

The internal processes of major political parties are riddled with favoritism. Primary elections are often stage-managed to favor the highest bidder or the godfather’s preferred aspirant.

Absence of Internal Democracy

Without credible internal processes, party structures become breeding grounds for impunity. This has led to numerous court cases and internal wrangling within parties.

Party Switching for Personal Gains

A hallmark of Nigeria’s political scene is frequent defection. Politicians jump ship regularly, not because of ideological differences but for strategic advantage.

Notable Nigerian Politicians Who Have Switched Parties:

Name	From	To	Reason
Atiku Abubakar	PDP → ACN → PDP → APC → PDP	Multiple switches	To secure presidential nomination
Bukola Saraki	PDP → APC → PDP	Twice	Power struggle and alignment
Rochas Okorocha	PDP → ANPP → APGA → APC	Multiple switches	To gain political leverage
Aminu Tambuwal	PDP → APC → PDP	Twice	Pursuit of governorship and party disputes
Rabiu Kwankwaso	PDP → APC → PDP → NNPP	Multiple	Disagreements over control and vision
Rotimi Amaechi	PDP → APC	Once	Conflict with PDP leadership
Godswill Akpabio	PDP → APC	Once	To align with ruling party
Obaseki Godwin	APC → PDP	Once	Following fallout with party leaders

These defections reflect opportunism and a lack of ideological commitment.

Impact of Political Behavior on Nigerian Democracy

Erosion of Public Trust

Citizens have become skeptical of politicians’ intentions. Many believe politics is solely for personal gain, not service—leading to growing cynicism.

Voter Apathy and Low Participation

Disillusionment has led to voter apathy. In 2023, only 27% of registered voters turned out, highlighting the declining faith in the electoral process.

Threat to Democratic Institutions

When politicians manipulate laws, bribe officials, or weaponize agencies like EFCC or DSS against rivals, democratic institutions become compromised and politicized.

Comparative Analysis With Politicians in Developed Democracies

While no political system is perfect, democracies like those in Canada, the UK, and Germany tend to emphasize:

Policy-driven campaigns
Strong oversight institutions
Genuine ideological adherence
Independent judiciary
Effective civic engagement

Nigeria must adapt such systems with local context in mind.

Root Causes of Negative Political Behavior

Weak Institutions: Regulatory agencies often lack independence and are susceptible to political interference.
Poverty and Ignorance: Voters are easily bought due to economic hardship, weakening the demand for accountability.
Lack of Political Education: Many Nigerians lack understanding of how governance should function or what roles elected leaders should play.

Proffering Practical Solutions to Political Misbehavior

Strengthening Electoral Laws and INEC Autonomy

Amending the Electoral Act to include stricter penalties for vote-buying and manipulation, and ensuring INEC operates without interference, will enhance credibility.

Promoting Civic Education

Government and NGOs should increase political literacy at the grassroots. Schools, religious institutions, and community centers can teach civic responsibility.

Encouraging Youth and Technocrats’ Participation

The political space should be opened up to young, capable minds who can challenge the status quo. Initiatives like “Not Too Young To Run” must be actively enforced.

Enforcing Transparency and Accountability

Public officers must be required to publish assets, budgets, and performance reports. Anti-corruption agencies should act independently, not as tools of revenge.

FAQs About the Behavioral Pattern of Nigerian Politicians

Q1: Why do Nigerian politicians often switch parties?
A: Most switch to improve their electoral chances or align with power blocs—not due to ideological shifts.

Q2: Is there any Nigerian politician known for consistent party loyalty?
A: Yes, a few like Babatunde Fashola and late Obafemi Awolowo maintained party consistency throughout their careers.

Q3: What role does godfatherism play in Nigerian politics?
A: Godfathers fund campaigns and expect loyalty, influencing policy and appointments. It’s a major contributor to political misbehavior.

Q4: Why is voter turnout usually low in Nigeria?
A: Due to disillusionment, fear of violence, and mistrust in the electoral process.

Q5: Are Nigerian youth interested in politics?
A: Yes, though historically excluded, there’s growing interest—especially via social media and platforms like the #EndSARS movement.

Q6: Can Nigerian politics ever become issue-based?
A: With stronger institutions, educated voters, and ideological parties, issue-based politics is achievable over time.

Conclusion

The behavioral pattern of an average Nigerian politician seeking elective role is a reflection of systemic decay, weak institutions, and societal complicity. From grandstanding during campaigns to detachment after elections, the cycle is both predictable and damaging. However, the tide can turn.

By reforming institutions, empowering citizens through education, and promoting a new breed of leaders who prioritize service over self, Nigeria can rewrite its political story. Change is not only possible—it is necessary for the survival of its democracy.