Godfathers in Nigeria that would shape 2019 general election

The results of 2019 elections lay on the shoulders on these individuals.

Political Godfathers in Nigeria that will determine who will become Nigeria's president in 2019  (Dailytrust)

Elections in Nigeria have always had its theme and individuals that are major factors and determinant of the results. In 2019, the general elections will also be determined, influenced and shaped by some individuals.

Since the return of democracy in 1999, some individuals have been a focal point of four general elections that have taken place in the country. By 1999, it was basically aligning with Bashorun M.K.O and Shehu Yar Adua ideologies or pretending to be a protégé of these individuals that influence voting as at then. This trend was also potent in 2003, with a small touch of pan-Yorubalism. In 2007, it is only getting a nod of former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo that gets you elected.

In 2011, Tinubu and Fashola’s factors made ways for many people.

During the general elections of 2015, the mention President Buhari and Bola Tinubu, alongside with the broom revolution, holds way.

With almost two years down the line to 2019, there is no indication that things would change and here are some individuals that would wield the real political powers.

1.    President Muhammadu Buhari

Events in Burkina undermine mediation efforts: Nigeria president  (Reuters)

Although it is not sure he will be seeking a re-election, but President Buhari is the most powerful man/godfather in 2019. Buhari holds many sways and commands many followers in North-East Nigeria and whole Northern region.

For any politicians seeking to get to any position, Buhari’s blessing would greatly help in actualizing the dream. However, in case he is seeking a re-election, the table would turn around.

The move for return to office in 2019 might finally threaten the ruling party, as they are many aspirants that would be pushing for the position. But, Buhari still remains the most powerful godfather currently in the country.

2.    Chief Olusegun Obasanjo

Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo  (Filed)

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is a man with the political strength to get anyone in and out of public office in Nigeria. This power was also confirmed by former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan who stated that fighting Chief Obasanjo is at your own peril.

“Any politician who ignores Obasanjo does so at its own peril,” Dr Jonathan said during a visit by Atiku Abubakar.

Although Chief Obasanjo is currently not a member of any political party in Nigeria, he cuts the shot across the board. All thanks to his support, APC won’t have had any opportunity of getting near the gate of Aso Rock.

3.    Dr Goodluck Jonathan

Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan cutting his 58th birthday cake  (LindaIkeji Blog)

With a relatively poor performance of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), the political status of Dr Goodluck Jonathan is on the rise. At present, Dr Goodluck is the highest ranked PDP member in the country after Chief Obasanjo announced his exits from the party.

As such, he remains a potent factor to be reckoned with, politically this year and beyond. With likely re-emergence of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the federal level, a blessing of Jonathan will be the highest commodity many political aspirants would be seeking.

4.    Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu

The Tinubu family is recognised for their business acumen and political strategy prowess  (THISDAYLIVE)

The Gagaban of Borgu and former Governor of Lagos, Bola Tinubu is one politician no one wants to play with at present. He is an acclaimed political strategist and the godfather of the whole south-western Nigeria.

His importance as regards 2019 elections was also stressed by Senator Shehu Sani, a Senator representing Kaduna South at the National Assembly, as he stated that the Buhari’s biggest mistake is abandoning Bola Tinubu.

“The Lion Monarch should reach out to the aggrieved but silent Lagoon Lion so that he doesn’t explode like the hippo. The Lagoon Lion controls waters that can drown.”

For his political sagacity and large followership, Tinubu is a major factor to be considered when measuring 2019 elections.

Malam Garba Shehu said about the political power of Tinubu in South West Nigeria: “Any suggestions that the president and the party machinery were working to destroy Tinubu had no foundation in truth or any credibility. The President was impressed by Tinubu’s assurance not to work against the party in Ondo and he honoured his words.”

5.    Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso

Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso  (Premium Times)

Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso is the current inheritor of the Talakawah movement led by the late Aminu Kano in the Northern region of Nigeria.

The former governor of Kano State and now senator is an influential figure in Kano political system. At present, his political movement built on the Talakawah movement, Kwankwasiyya has a great youth followership in the region.

He contested the 2014 APC primaries and came second after President Muhammadu Buhari.