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Why Presidents, Governors Avoid Handing Over Power to Deputies — Osoba
Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba revealed that distrust and suspicion are key reasons why many presidents and governors are hesitant to transfer power to their deputies. He shared these insights at the 3rd Annual Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria, held in Abuja.
The event, themed “Strategic Solutions for Good Governance, Food Security, and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria,” served as a platform for discussing governance challenges. Osoba pointed out that this issue isn’t unique to Nigeria or Africa but occurs globally, citing the example of the political tension between former US Vice President Al Gore and President Bill Clinton.
“It is most unfortunate. It is not just in Africa — it happens all over the world. Al Gore distanced himself from Clinton during his presidential campaign, considering him a potential liability,” Osoba said.
He noted that it is rare for deputies to succeed their bosses, though he remained hopeful about the future. “There are still opportunities for such individuals in this country, and the young leaders we have today could change that,” he added.
Osoba also criticized the trend of governors orchestrating impeachments against their deputies. When asked about the possibility of amending the constitution to protect deputies, he explained that little could be done. “If a State House of Assembly sides with a governor, the governor has the influence to attempt anything, including impeachment,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of building relationships rather than relying solely on legal protections.
The All Progressives Congress National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, joined the discussion, acknowledging the controversial nature of the deputy role. He lightened the mood by joking that even God did not appoint a deputy during creation, highlighting the complexities of leadership and the need for reliable succession.
Ganduje concluded by expressing hope for a future constitutional review that could better define and strengthen the role of deputies, noting that leadership transitions are inevitable due to health or unforeseen circumstances.
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