Godfather syndrome is a complex web of dependencies and loyalties that underpins Saki local politics. Politicians from the community, often desperate for financial support, political backing, and protection, seek out external godfathers who can provide these benefits. In return, these politicians offer their loyalty, support, and, often, their constituents’ interests.
As the festive season comes to a close every year, Observers are reminded of a phenomenon that has become all too familiar in the local politics of the area: the exodus of Saki politicians drove to the comfort zones of their external godfathers. This spectacle raises important questions about the nature of Saki politics, what drives the behavior, the role of external influences, and the future of local governance.
Funnily enough, one has not seen any politician from other places even in Okeogun area flocking Saki community to celebrate with their political leaders but during festivals, it’s not uncommon to see Saki politicians travel in droves to the comfort zones of their external godfathers. Politicians from Saki travel to Igboho , Kishi , Igbojaye , Ogbomoso, Oyo and Ibadan every December .
Even, when the Almighty Michael Adeniyi Koleosho was much alive, his house wasn’t turned to Mecca during the festive period .
They often rely on their external godfathers for financial support, political backing, and protection. Visiting them during festivals is a way to demonstrate loyalty and gratitude.Also, to seek blessings and endorsements. External godfathers often wield significant influence and power by visiting them during festivals, Saki.
They also use the occasion to provide an opportunity to network with other influential individuals, build bridges, and strengthen their political connections and to showcase their wealth, status, and influence, which can boost their reputation and credibility.
Meanwhile, dependence on external godfathers can undermine local autonomy and decision-making, as Saki politicians prioritize the interests of their external benefactors over those of their constituents. The spectacle of Saki politicians flocking to external godfathers’ comfort zones during festivals can erode public trust and confidence in local governance, as citizens perceive their leaders as beholden to external interests.
But there is still hope if Saki politicians could begin to break the hold of external godfathers on their local politics. They must also encourage local philanthropists and promote local leadership capacity.
Seeking a godfather in politics outside one’s base can have far-reaching consequences, both for the politician and the community they represent.
They often disconnect from constituents. Politicians from Saki who rely heavily on an external godfather have technically disconnected from the needs and concerns of their constituents and by extension, undermine the ability of communities to self-govern.
To be continued……