- A Recap of the Year’s Significance in Politics and Its Implications for the Future
As 2023 draws to a close, it stands as a year etched in the nation’s memory, marked by a series of pivotal political events that unfolded both nationally and internationally. In this retrospective, DIRISU YAKUBU delves into these events, exploring their impact on the political landscape.
Undoubtedly, 2023 proved to be a challenging year, rife with uncertainty, defying prophecies, and exposing the fallacy of certain predictions. Amidst the difficulties, the year was a stage for the general elections, offering Nigerians the opportunity to elect a new President. The political theater unfolded with a plethora of events at national and sub-national levels, leaving an indelible mark on the political canvas.
Presidential Election: A Test of New Electoral Act
On February 25, the presidential election unfolded across the 774 local government areas, with a novel test of the Electoral Act 2022. The Act, with provisions such as the direct transmission of election results to the IReV portal, aimed to reduce election rigging. Although largely adhered to in other elections, the presidential contest raised questions. INEC declared Bola Tinubu of APC the winner, sparking legal battles from Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, eventually affirmed by the Supreme Court.
Adamawa Governorship Election: A Twist of False Declaration
The March 18 governorship election in Adamawa showcased an intriguing turn of events. Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, leading by 31,249 votes, saw his challenger Aisha ‘Binani’ Dahiru declared the winner erroneously by the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Hudu Yunusa-Ari. Following widespread condemnation, Yunusa-Ari faced prosecution for his false declaration.
Senate Presidency Race: Akpabio Triumphs Amidst Contention
The 10th Senate’s presidency race witnessed intense competition among former governors Godswill Akpabio, Orji Kalu, and Abdulaziz Yari. Eventually, Akpabio emerged victorious, with Kalu stepping down hours before the election.
House Speakership: Abbas Clinches Victory Amidst Rivalry
The House of Representatives leadership contest brought friends and associates like Yusuf Gagdi, Muktar Betara, and Tajudeen Abbas into contention. Abbas secured a landslide victory after Gagdi and Betara withdrew their candidacies.
El-Rufai Denied Ministerial Position: A Twist of Fate
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai faced a surprising twist when denied a ministerial role in the Tinubu-led government. Despite bookmakers predicting a role in the Power portfolio, El-Rufai failed to secure the necessary security clearance for a cabinet appointment.
Off-Season Elections: Expected Outcomes in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo
The November 11 off-season governorship elections saw anticipated outcomes in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo, where APC retained power in Kogi and Imo, while PDP’s Duoye Diri claimed victory in Bayelsa.
Zamfara, Others A’Court Judgment: Governors’ Victories Overturned
Governors Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Abba Yusuf (Kano) faced setbacks as the Court of Appeal annulled their elections. The appellate court declared their elections non-compliant with the law, leading to significant legal repercussions.
Obaseki/Shaibu Feud: Rift Over Power Shift
Edo State witnessed a rupture in the political alliance between Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. The rift centered around Shaibu’s ambition to succeed Obaseki in the 2024 governorship poll, revealing underlying tensions within the PDP.
Wike/Fubara Fallout: Strained Relations in Rivers
Rivers State experienced tension between Governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, resulting in defections, resignations, and budget presentations to a diminished assembly. The outcome of their strained relationship remains uncertain.
Aiyedatiwa Survives Impeachment: Ondo’s Political Turmoil
Lucky Aiyedatiwa, acting Governor of Ondo, navigated political upheaval and survived impeachment attempts. The political crisis arose during Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s prolonged absence due to health concerns.
While 2023 draws to a close, the reverberations of these political events are likely to extend into 2024, shaping the political landscape and influencing the nation’s trajectory in the coming year.
