Former Minister of Education and Health, Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, has attributed the recent power struggle between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Sim Fubara, to political greed.
Fubara found himself in a heated dispute with his predecessor and a faction of his supporters, leading to an impeachment plot, the demolition of the Assembly complex, and a wave of resignations among pro-Wike commissioners in his cabinet. The crisis only abated after President Bola Tinubu intervened.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Madubuike discussed the pervasive issue of godfatherism in Nigerian politics. He emphasized the challenge of controlling individuals in power who are knowledgeable and self-assured.
“I have extensively addressed the issue of godfatherism in politics. Our political godfathers are ever vigilant. It is unrealistic to think that someone in power, who understands the dynamics, can be easily controlled.
If a godfather persists in meddling, the pragmatic solution is to settle him and focus on governance, as that is the essence of being a governor,” Madubuike remarked.
He went on to characterize the Rivers state situation as a consequence of political greed, cautioning against the desire to have one’s cake and eat it too. Madubuike concluded with a philosophical note, stating, “Life doesn’t work that way, and I hope humanity learns that power ultimately belongs to God.”
