Osoba highlights trust issues between leaders and deputies as governance challenge in Nigeria

Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba attributes global leadership challenges to distrust between leaders and their deputies, citing both Nigerian and international examples.

 

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ormer Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, has attributed the reluctance of many presidents and governors to transfer leadership to their deputies to a deep-seated lack of trust and suspicion.

Osoba voiced his concerns during the 3rd Annual Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria, held in Abuja, addressing the theme: “Strategic Solutions for Good Governance, Food Security, and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria.”

 

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During his speech, Osoba described the distrust between leaders and their deputies as a global problem, citing the example of former US Vice President Al Gore and President Bill Clinton.

Gore distanced himself from Clinton during his presidential campaign, perceiving Clinton as a potential liability, a move Osoba said mirrored political tensions seen worldwide.

“It is most unfortunate. It is not just in Africa — it happens all over the world. You will recall the case of Al Gore and Bill Clinton… It is rare to see a deputy succeeding their boss,” Osoba stated, adding that this issue is not unique to Nigeria.

The former governor also lamented the tendency of governors to sponsor impeachment proceedings against their deputies, a trend that has persisted in Nigerian politics.

Osoba, however, expressed little hope for constitutional amendments to protect deputy governors from such actions, pointing out that governors often wield significant influence over state legislatures, which makes impeachment possible even in the absence of serious infractions.

“There is nothing anybody can do about it. If the State House of Assembly is friendly with the governor, he can attempt anything, including impeaching his deputy.

What we should continue to promote is for leaders to build relationships,” Osoba emphasised.

National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, also weighed in on the issue, acknowledging its controversial nature.

In a light-hearted remark, Ganduje quipped that even God did not consider appointing a deputy during creation, illustrating the complexity of the deputy-leader dynamic.

Ganduje further expressed optimism that continued advocacy could eventually prompt lawmakers to review the constitution, adding provisions to safeguard the role of deputy leaders.

Despite these challenges, both leaders stressed the importance of cooperation between governors and their deputies, highlighting that good governance requires trust and strong relationships at the highest levels.