Party primaries: After 25 years of democracy, Nigerian politicians still learning – Shehu

Public affairs commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has raised concerns over what he described as growing political desperation among politicians following the conclusion of party primary elections in Nigeria.
Shehu, in a post shared on X on Saturday, criticised the conduct of political parties, alleging lack of transparency and rising tension among party members.

According to him, although party primaries have been concluded, many parties are yet to release their final lists of candidates, a situation he described as suspicious.

“All parties’ primary elections are over, yet the final lists are being withheld and treated as if they are in a casino room,” he said.

He noted that reactions, disputes, and rejections trailing the primaries show that many politicians are still struggling to understand democratic processes even after years of civilian rule.

“Even after 25 uninterrupted years of democratic governance, politicians in Nigeria are still learning the ropes,” he added.

Shehu also pointed to what he described as increasing desperation for political power, saying some politicians are willing to switch parties or form unlikely alliances just to secure tickets.

“Extreme desperation for power at all cost is increasing, judging by the behaviour of party members after losing tickets,” he said.

He further observed that politicians who once criticised certain parties are now moving to those same platforms in search of opportunities.

“Some characters are moving from one political party to another looking for cheap tickets, including parties they once demonised,” he stated.

He added that former political rivals are now forming alliances out of convenience, describing them as strange bedfellows driven by the desire for power.

Shehu warned that the real consequences of the current political developments would become clearer as the election period progresses.

“The realities will manifest before, during and after the general elections,” he said.

“Democracy is in visible danger with the way politicians are displaying dangerous desperation,” he warned.

He concluded by noting that while the current situation may seem uncertain, time will reveal its full impact on the county’s political landscape.