Public commentator Mahdi Shehu has voiced alarm over what he perceives as escalating political desperation in Nigeria following the conclusion of party primaries. In a Saturday post on X, Shehu criticized political parties for a lack of transparency and rising tensions among members.
Despite the completion of primaries, many parties have yet to release their final candidate lists, a delay Shehu finds dubious. “All parties’ primary elections are over, yet the final lists are being withheld and treated as if they are in a casino room,” he remarked.
He noted that the disputes and rejections trailing the primaries indicate that many politicians still struggle with democratic processes even after 25 years of civilian rule. “Even after 25 uninterrupted years of democratic governance, politicians in Nigeria are still learning the ropes,” he added.
Shehu also highlighted what he termed extreme power hunger, observing that some politicians are willing to switch parties or form unlikely alliances just to secure tickets. “Extreme desperation for power at all cost is increasing, judging by the behaviour of party members after losing tickets,” he said.
He further pointed out that politicians who once criticized certain parties are now flocking to those same platforms. “Some characters are moving from one political party to another looking for cheap tickets, including parties they once demonised,” he stated. Former rivals are now forming convenience-based alliances—strange bedfellows driven by a desire for power.
Shehu warned that the real impact of these developments will become clearer as the election period progresses. “The realities will manifest before, during and after the general elections,” he said. “Democracy is in visible danger with the way politicians are displaying dangerous desperation.” He concluded that while the current situation may seem uncertain, time will reveal its full effect on Nigeria’s political landscape.