Nigerian politics, woven with a fabric of ambition and manipulation, presents a landscape where sincerity is often a fleeting shadow. In a climate where self-interest reigns supreme, the behaviours of politicians reveal an insatiable appetite for power, all while cloaking themselves in the veneer of morality. This charade unravels with alarming clarity, exposing a level of egocentricity that can no longer be ignored as they promise change yet perpetuate the status quo.
The recent seismic shift in Delta State, marked by the exodus of influential players from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlights a narrative steeped in cunning and duplicity. Assertions of ambition like “dem nor get level na” and “we will take over the party structure” echo not just a desire for power, but a troubling arrogance that pervades the discourse. The political theater has grown increasingly complex since our Governor, His Excellency Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, made headlines with his defection from the PDP to the APC in Asaba. While some close allies embraced this pivotal change, the majority of local leaders remain anchored to their past affiliations, engaging in shallow performances that mask their reluctance to enact meaningful change within their constituencies.
Our governor rightfully stakes his claim on the political landscape of Delta, but many local leaders, dazzled by the allure of power, seem unwilling to abandon their safety nets. Their strategy resembles a tightrope walk – balancing precariously with one foot in each camp, eager to jump onto the more advantageous side once it reveals itself. Their sycophantic gestures, including glitzy gatherings around his Excellency in Asaba and staged photo opportunities with APC stalwarts in Abuja, fail to establish a foundation of true loyalty. This begs the critical question: do they recognize the duplicity that shrouds their every move, or have they become willfully blind to the implications of their actions?
This this commentary, aptly titled; “26 Years of Deceit: The Appalling Legacy of Political Hypocrisy and Betrayal in Delta State”, we navigate the murky waters of political intrigue that have characterized the past two and a half decades, a saga of betrayal and heartache inflicted on their constituents by these turncoats. It unearths the tragic dynamic between leaders and their followers, who have been systematically neglected while these politicians gorge themselves on the resources of the state. The blind allegiance displayed by some sections of the electorate, unable to discern their subservience from genuine loyalty, further complicates this tale. Their unwarranted dependency on thoroughly corrupt leaders has ensnared them in a cycle of dysfunction, leaving them unable to liberate themselves from the chains of ignorance.
As Othman Dan Fodio astutely remarked, “conscience is an open wound that can only be healed by the truth.” Yet, the self-proclaimed champions of Delta politics appear habitually stripped of conscience. Compounding their plight is a growing compendium of corruption allegations surrounding several prominent officials, casting a long shadow over the motives behind their sudden alignment with the APC. This drastic pivot seems more an act of self-preservation in the face of scrutiny than a genuine commitment to the core values espoused by the APC. As our former political leaders wrestle with their identity crises, one undeniable truth looms over them: the wrath of a concerned electorate waits for no one, and there is no refuge for the wicked.
The palpable uncertainty surrounding their political moves not only reveals their opportunistic tendencies but also highlights their trepidation. Many defectors hesitate to formalize their departure from the PDP, revealing a lack of both courage and conviction. To find a place of relevance within the APC, they must fully embrace the values of true progressiveness – a transformation that is essential for the vitality of the party, which prides itself on principles of integrity and unity. The APC must adopt a discerning lens to recognize and address the double dealings of individuals who are eager to exploit the party for their gains.
At this pivotal moment, Governor Oborevwori must hasten the discussions regarding the terms of his defection to the APC and urgently instruct council chairmen and local leaders to follow suit. Integrating former APC members into significant appointments is an essential step. Failure to act decisively could jeopardize vital alliances critical to the party’s success.
To maintain its integrity, the APC must ensure that a formal resignation from the defectors is obtained before they are officially welcomed into the party ranks. After all, history teaches us that the cleverest thieves often devise the most intricate plans to deceive.
As we traverse this labyrinthine narrative woven from deceit and political opportunism, it is paramount to echo the timeless wisdom of reggae legend Bob Marley: “You can fool some of the people sometimes, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.” Effective governance demands a steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability. The people of Delta must remain vigilant, continually challenging their leaders to uphold their promises and act in the best interests of those they serve. Only through unwavering dedication to the welfare of its citizens can the cycle of betrayal be dismantled, heralding a new era of political integrity and social prosperity.
26 YEARS OF DECEIT: THE APPALLING LEGACY OF POLITICAL HYPOCRISY AND BETRAYAL IN DELTA STATE.
Nigerian politics, woven with a fabric of ambition and manipulation, presents a landscape where sincerity is often a fleeting shadow. In a climate where self-interest reigns supreme, the behaviours of politicians reveal an insatiable appetite for power, all while cloaking themselves in the veneer of morality. This charade unravels with alarming clarity, exposing a level of egocentricity that can no longer be ignored as they promise change yet perpetuate the status quo.
The recent seismic shift in Delta State, marked by the exodus of influential players from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlights a narrative steeped in cunning and duplicity. Assertions of ambition like “dem nor get level na” and “we will take over the party structure” echo not just a desire for power, but a troubling arrogance that pervades the discourse. The political theater has grown increasingly complex since our Governor, His Excellency Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, made headlines with his defection from the PDP to the APC in Asaba. While some close allies embraced this pivotal change, the majority of local leaders remain anchored to their past affiliations, engaging in shallow performances that mask their reluctance to enact meaningful change within their constituencies.
Our governor rightfully stakes his claim on the political landscape of Delta, but many local leaders, dazzled by the allure of power, seem unwilling to abandon their safety nets. Their strategy resembles a tightrope walk – balancing precariously with one foot in each camp, eager to jump onto the more advantageous side once it reveals itself. Their sycophantic gestures, including glitzy gatherings around his Excellency in Asaba and staged photo opportunities with APC stalwarts in Abuja, fail to establish a foundation of true loyalty. This begs the critical question: do they recognize the duplicity that shrouds their every move, or have they become willfully blind to the implications of their actions?
This this commentary, aptly titled; “26 Years of Deceit: The Appalling Legacy of Political Hypocrisy and Betrayal in Delta State”, we navigate the murky waters of political intrigue that have characterized the past two and a half decades, a saga of betrayal and heartache inflicted on their constituents by these turncoats. It unearths the tragic dynamic between leaders and their followers, who have been systematically neglected while these politicians gorge themselves on the resources of the state. The blind allegiance displayed by some sections of the electorate, unable to discern their subservience from genuine loyalty, further complicates this tale. Their unwarranted dependency on thoroughly corrupt leaders has ensnared them in a cycle of dysfunction, leaving them unable to liberate themselves from the chains of ignorance.
As Othman Dan Fodio astutely remarked, “conscience is an open wound that can only be healed by the truth.” Yet, the self-proclaimed champions of Delta politics appear habitually stripped of conscience. Compounding their plight is a growing compendium of corruption allegations surrounding several prominent officials, casting a long shadow over the motives behind their sudden alignment with the APC. This drastic pivot seems more an act of self-preservation in the face of scrutiny than a genuine commitment to the core values espoused by the APC. As our former political leaders wrestle with their identity crises, one undeniable truth looms over them: the wrath of a concerned electorate waits for no one, and there is no refuge for the wicked.
The palpable uncertainty surrounding their political moves not only reveals their opportunistic tendencies but also highlights their trepidation. Many defectors hesitate to formalize their departure from the PDP, revealing a lack of both courage and conviction. To find a place of relevance within the APC, they must fully embrace the values of true progressiveness – a transformation that is essential for the vitality of the party, which prides itself on principles of integrity and unity. The APC must adopt a discerning lens to recognize and address the double dealings of individuals who are eager to exploit the party for their gains.
At this pivotal moment, Governor Oborevwori must hasten the discussions regarding the terms of his defection to the APC and urgently instruct council chairmen and local leaders to follow suit. Integrating former APC members into significant appointments is an essential step. Failure to act decisively could jeopardize vital alliances critical to the party’s success.
To maintain its integrity, the APC must ensure that a formal resignation from the defectors is obtained before they are officially welcomed into the party ranks. After all, history teaches us that the cleverest thieves often devise the most intricate plans to deceive.
As we traverse this labyrinthine narrative woven from deceit and political opportunism, it is paramount to echo the timeless wisdom of reggae legend Bob Marley: “You can fool some of the people sometimes, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.” Effective governance demands a steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability. The people of Delta must remain vigilant, continually challenging their leaders to uphold their promises and act in the best interests of those they serve. Only through unwavering dedication to the welfare of its citizens can the cycle of betrayal be dismantled, heralding a new era of political integrity and social prosperity.
*Hon. Prince Augustine Edumogiren writes from Ayakoromo Town in Delta State.
May 13, 2025.
writes from Ayakoromo Town in Delta State.
May 13, 2025.