Dr. Otive Igbuzor, a prominent Nigerian political figure and former Chief of Staff to ex-Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has lauded the recent resignation of Abdullahi Ganduje as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Igbuzor characterizes Ganduje’s departure as a positive stride for Nigerian democracy, emphasizing the potential for a more open and dynamic political landscape. While Ganduje officially cited health reasons for his resignation, Igbuzor notes the controversies surrounding his appointment, particularly the disregard for the purported zoning of the chairmanship to the North-Central region. This unexpected turn of events, he suggests, presents an opportunity for the APC to recalibrate its internal dynamics and potentially address lingering concerns regarding inclusivity and representation within the party. The resignation underscores the fluidity of the political scene and anticipates shifts in power dynamics within the ruling party.
Igbuzor’s commentary extends beyond the immediate implications of Ganduje’s resignation, delving into broader issues of governance and citizen participation in Nigeria. He argues that the nation’s institutions, including the legislature, judiciary, and media, have been effectively “captured” by the political elite. This concentration of power, he suggests, necessitates a more engaged and active citizenry to counterbalance elite influence and promote meaningful reform. He advocates for stronger, ideologically driven political parties that move beyond their current role as mere electoral vehicles. This resonates with his call for a more robust civil society capable of holding power accountable and advocating for the interests of the broader populace. The current state of Nigerian politics, according to Igbuzor, demands a revitalized citizenry and reformed political parties to ensure a more democratic and representative system.
The backdrop for these observations was the 50th birthday celebration of Dr. Margaret Fagboyo, the former Acting Head of the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) and founder of the Inclusive Pathway Development Initiative (IPADEV). Igbuzor commends Fagboyo’s extensive experience in international development and her previous role as Special Adviser on Development Partnerships and SDGs to former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi. He highlights these experiences as valuable assets in leading IPADEV, an NGO focused on critical social issues such as gender equality, social justice, and human rights. The convergence of this celebration with Ganduje’s resignation provided a platform for reflecting on the state of Nigerian politics and the role of civil society in driving positive change.
The event also served as a platform for prominent figures to acknowledge Fagboyo’s contributions and celebrate her new venture. Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, described Fagboyo as “brilliant and ebullient,” praising her political acumen demonstrated during her time as a special adviser in Ekiti State. Bisi Fayemi, wife of former Governor Kayode Fayemi, lauded Fagboyo’s decision to dedicate herself to civil society work, emphasizing the critical need for organizations like IPADEV that champion gender equality, empowerment, and social justice in Nigeria. These accolades underscore Fagboyo’s reputation as a dedicated public servant and her potential to make a significant impact through her new initiative.
Fagboyo’s personal journey, marked by both achievement and adversity, has shaped her commitment to service. She describes her career trajectory as a “tripod” encompassing 18 years at DFID, three years in government, and her current involvement in the NGO sector. Reflecting on the loss of her twin at a young age, Fagboyo expresses a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to give back to society. The founding of IPADEV, therefore, represents not only a professional endeavor but also a deeply personal mission driven by a desire to contribute to positive social change.
The launch of IPADEV, coinciding with discussions surrounding Ganduje’s resignation and the broader challenges facing Nigerian democracy, highlights the vital role of civil society organizations in advocating for a more just and equitable society. Fagboyo’s experience, combined with her commitment to addressing issues of gender equality, social justice, and human rights, positions IPADEV as a potential catalyst for change. Her expressed gratitude to her mentors, Erelu Fayemi and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, further emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support in nurturing leadership and fostering positive social impact. The event, therefore, served as a testament to the power of individual initiative and the potential of civil society to contribute to meaningful progress in Nigeria.
