Loyalty for Sale: The Currency of Political Power in Nigeria (Part II)

In the words of a Japanese proverb, “When self-interest comes into play, things get stagnant.”

Few concepts in Nigeria's political sphere are as frequently exchanged as 'loyalty.' It is paraded through earnest declarations, bartered for political appointments, and swiftly rescinded when the perceived value wanes. The concept of loyalty has morphed into something so malleable and self-serving that it appears almost marketable on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Each electoral cycle reinforces the idea that loyalty is akin to a suitcase on wheels, easily transported to whichever political camp is currently thriving. A senator might profess fervent loyalty to one party today and conveniently transfer their allegiance to another tomorrow, justifying it as “the will of my people.” By next week, they could be embracing former foes at their initial party under the guise of comradery.

Amid this ongoing cycle of party defections and reconciliations, the expression “I remain loyal” has lost its significance. The witty streets of Nigeria have redeveloped this phrase into meanings such as “I remain available,