POLITICAL PARTY DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM IN NIGERIA AND THE BURDEN OF LOYALTYk
By Musa Bakare
The dynamics of loyalty to political party and party candidates in an election within Nigeria’s democratic system reflects a bargain often fraught with unfaithful relationship as members weigh their commitments to party reward policies vis-à-vis their aspiration and expectations.
Political party loyalty all over the world serves as a double-edged swords in the give and take process. It is crucial for fostering unity and mobilizing support for the party but also poses significant challenges for both the party and candidates after winning an election with the old and consistent members relegated in favor of the new and unstable members in the appointment process.
- Advertisement -
The emotional burden of loyalty, particularly in light of unfulfilled promises or perceived injustices, can create divisions within party members. When loyal members, those that toiled and suffered for the victory of the party and it’s candidate in an election feel marginalized, their sense of belonging can be eroded, leading to disillusionment.
This is evident in many states in Nigeria where foundational members of the political parties are subjected to unfavorably experience of unrewarded, a sense of betrayal following the unjustly appointment of those that newly joined the party to reap rewards the fruits of the labour they never worked for, those that were indeed fighting and abusing loyal members in the run up to the elections.
The ensuing feelings of abandonment threatened party cohesion, as loyalty is deeply tied to personal investment, sacrifices and an expectation of a commensurate reward.
Nigerian Governors stands to mend these relationships. By validating past contributions and seeking to address grievances, they can effectively reposition loyalty as a source of strength rather than a burden.
Political party loyalty often demands conformity to party lines, which can stifle diversity of thought. Balancing loyalty with credible reward system should be prioritized to cultivate a healthy relationship within the party. Goverors and the winning party candidates must create a conducive reward system that discourage rewarding wrong persons that only decamped from their parties after an abysmal failure in an election without threatening the overall cohesion of the winning party.
The polarization exacerbated by an unfair and an unjust reward system is a significant concern. A policy of viewing members as adversaries diminishes the potential for future hardwork and trust in a bipartisan initiatives. Political reward system is at risk of devolving into hostility when it sidelined the very devoted old foundation members in favor of new “brides”.
To mitigate the burdens of loyalty, there must be a reciprocity in efforts to recognize and reward dedicated members. Parties and successful party candidates in an election needs to establish mechanisms that acknowledge the contributions of their old and consistent members, thus reinforcing loyalty that is built on recognition rather than obligation.
A more inclusive and responsive party structure should rejuvenate members’ political engagement and avert potential disenfranchisement.
The interplay of loyalty and reward system in Nigeria’s political parties necessitates careful scrutiny. It serves as a cornerstone for party cohesion and a continued electoral success while simultaneously avoiding potential risks such as disillusionment, polarization, and discouragment.
Governor’s in Nigeria in particular should foster an environment that values and adequately reward sincere party loyalists rather than sycophants. As members grapple with their commitments to the party versus their personal aspiration, it will be crucial for Nigerian political leaders to acknowledge and address these dynamics, paving the way for a resilient, engaged, and effective political party democratic environment.
Handling the burdens of tested loyalty requires a delicate balance, a commitment to both the party and the members it serves towards fostering an inclusive reward arrangement within political structures which will help alleviate the pressures that come with loyalty, allowing for a more robust and responsive political landscape.
Hon. Musa Bakare Member, Tinubu Support Group (TSG) writes from Lokoja Kogi state capital
12 March, 2025
