As the election season gathers momentum, we are once again confronted with a disturbing and all-too-familiar pattern—the quiet but dangerous imposition of candidates on our people.
Let us be clear: the imposition of candidates is not just a political strategy; it is a direct assault on the collective will, dignity, and future of the Igala people. It strips the people of their fundamental right to choose leaders who genuinely represent their aspirations. Instead, it hands over that sacred responsibility to a select few who prioritize personal loyalty over public service. History has shown us the consequences—leaders who emerge not from the people but from the shadows of godfatherism, often govern with divided loyalties.
This growing trend of aspirants parading themselves before a former governor, clutching nomination forms for endorsement and photo opportunities, is not only disappointing but deeply troubling. It signals a return to a system where legitimacy is not earned through the trust of the people but borrowed from political patrons. We have seen this before, and we know how it ends: the interests of the people are sidelined, while personal allegiances take centre stage.
Let us not forget a very recent and painful chapter in our collective history. When the agitation for the creation of additional states in Nigeria gained momentum—a movement that carried the hopes and aspirations of our people—what did we witness? Reluctance. Hesitation. Silence.
Many of those elected to represent us, individuals who ought to have stood firmly at the forefront of that struggle, shrank back. They were unwilling to append their signatures to critical memorandum documents that would have strengthened our case. Some even avoided meetings convened to advance this collective cause. Why? Not because the cause lacked merit, not because the people were not in support—but because of fear. Fear of displeasing political godfathers who neither understand nor prioritize Igala interests.
This is the tragic cost of imposed leadership.
The pattern persists even at the grassroots. Today, we see a glaring and unacceptable reality: the nine Local Government Chairmen of Igala extraction consistently absenting themselves from meetings of Igala socio-cultural groups. These are platforms designed to discuss, protect, and advance our collective interests—yet those entrusted with leadership at the local level choose to stay away.
Even more troubling is their reluctance to actively mobilize our people for critical civic responsibilities such as voter registration exercises conducted by INEC. At a time when participation determines political relevance and future bargaining power, those who should be at the forefront of mobilization are conspicuously missing in action.
And again, the reason is not far-fetched—fear. Fear of persecution. Fear of stepping out of line. Fear of displeasing unseen political overlords.
But we must ask ourselves: of what use is leadership that is shackled by fear? Of what value are representatives who can not stand with their people when it matters most?
This is not just disappointing—it is a grave disservice to the Igala nation.
When leaders can not associate freely with their own people, can not defend their interests, and can not even encourage civic participation, then it is clear that the process that produced them is fundamentally flawed. Such a system must be rejected—firmly, decisively, and without compromise.
We must resist, vehemently, any form of leadership recruitment that prioritizes loyalty to individuals over commitment to the people. We can not continue to mortgage our future to fear-driven leadership.
We have also seen those who masquerade as champions of our cause—individuals who speak loudly in public but act differently in private. They posture as defenders of the Igala nation, yet behind closed doors, they bow to the very forces that undermine us. This kind of duplicity has held us back for far too long.
Enough is enough.
Now more than ever, we must remain vigilant. We must reject any form of political imposition, no matter how subtle or disguised. Our focus should be on credible, courageous, and committed individuals—true patriots who are accountable first and foremost to the people, not to political benefactors.
The Igala nation deserves leaders who will stand tall, speak boldly, and act decisively in defence of our interests. Leaders who will not disappear when responsibility calls. Leaders who will not tremble in the face of pressure.
We need patriots. We need nationalists. We need men and women who will serve wholeheartedly.
Let this be a wake-up call. Our future must not be negotiated behind closed doors. It must be decided openly, collectively, and democratically by the people.
The time to protect our voice is now.
Jonathan Jibrin
