The Influence of Cabals in Nigerian Governance: Insights from Solomon Dalung

 

The Influence of Cabals in Nigerian Governance: Insights from Solomon Dalung

Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has shed light on the powerful role of cabals in Nigerian politics. Speaking on the Mic On Podcast published recently, Dalung provided a detailed account of how influential groups operated within the corridors of power during his time in government.

Dalung, who served during the first term of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, revealed how a group of powerful individuals gained control shortly after Buhari's victory in the 2015 elections. His revelations offer a compelling look at the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Nigerian governance.

What Are Cabals in Nigerian Politics?

When asked to define the term "cabal," Dalung described it as a group of ambitious individuals appointed by the president to assist in governance but who end up controlling the administration for their personal interests. These cabals often work behind the scenes, sidelining others to consolidate power for their benefit.

According to Dalung, shortly after Buhari’s election, such a group emerged unexpectedly, marginalizing those who had actively campaigned for the president’s victory.

How Cabals Took Over After Buhari’s Victory

Dalung narrated a personal experience to illustrate how quickly cabals moved to assert their influence. He recounted being with Buhari on the day the election results were declared. However, by the evening of that same day, he was already encountering resistance from the president's inner circle.

“I was with the president in his office when he was declared the winner. Later that evening, I went to see him again. Surprisingly, I was blocked from entering his residence. This was the same place I had been visiting freely, even as late as 2 a.m., just the previous day,” Dalung said.

He added that it took several calls and interventions before he was finally allowed access. This incident marked the beginning of what he described as the cabal’s control over Buhari’s administration.

The Power Shift: Celebrations and Vulnerabilities

Dalung explained that those who genuinely worked for Buhari’s victory were so engrossed in celebrating their success that they left the president vulnerable to manipulation. Meanwhile, individuals who understood the intricacies of power wasted no time in stepping in to take charge.

“The people who truly worked for Buhari were out celebrating, leaving the president exposed. Those who understood power dynamics took over and ran the government in their own interest,” he said.

This takeover, according to Dalung, continued throughout Buhari’s eight years in office.

Historical Context: The Cabal Narrative

Reports of cabals influencing Nigerian administrations are not new. After Buhari assumed power in 2015, there were frequent allegations and references to a “cabal” controlling key decisions in his government. These reports suggested that this group wielded significant influence over policy-making and appointments, often sidelining elected officials and other stakeholders.

Dalung’s account aligns with these reports, adding a first-hand perspective to the narrative.

The Implications of Cabal Control in Governance

Marginalization of Key Stakeholders

The emergence of cabals often leads to the exclusion of those who actively contribute to a government’s success. This marginalization can create dissatisfaction among loyal supporters and disrupt the administration’s unity.

Self-Interest Over National Interest

Cabals operate primarily for personal gain, which can undermine the government’s ability to implement policies that benefit the general population. Their influence can lead to the prioritization of private agendas over national development.

Weakening of Democratic Institutions

The concentration of power within a small group undermines the democratic process. It shifts decision-making away from elected officials to unelected individuals, weakening transparency and accountability.

How to Address the Influence of Cabals

Strengthening Democratic Processes

Ensuring transparency in governance and decision-making can help minimize the influence of cabals. Policies that promote accountability and inclusiveness are essential for reducing their grip on power.

Empowering Elected Officials

Elected representatives should be given the resources and authority to execute their mandates effectively. This reduces opportunities for external groups to dominate governance.

Public Awareness and Vigilance

Citizens must remain vigilant and demand transparency from their leaders. Increased public scrutiny can deter cabals from operating unchecked.

Solomon Dalung’s revelations provide a rare glimpse into the inner workings of Nigerian governance. His account highlights the pervasive influence of cabals and their ability to shape the direction of an administration. While the existence of such groups poses significant challenges, adopting measures to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness can help safeguard Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The lessons from Buhari’s administration underline the importance of vigilance in ensuring that power truly serves the people rather than a select few. As Nigeria moves forward, addressing the influence of cabals remains a critical step in achieving good governance.

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