Political IDPs: A Coalition of Failure Masquerading as Salvatio
By Bolaji Olabode
When a group of people come together to tackle a problem—whether in business, sports, or politics—one of the critical factors we look for is their performance in similar roles and responsibilities. Past results often serve as a reliable indicator of future potential. In fact, employers frequently prefer a fresh graduate with no experience over a seasoned individual with a history of poor outcomes because untapped potential is often more promising than proven incompetence.
Yet, in Nigeria’s political arena, it defies belief that individuals who have previously held significant roles—whose performance is well-documented and widely criticized—are now presenting themselves as the saviors of our nation’s troubles. These are the same figures who, when entrusted with power, demonstrated a remarkable inability to manage resources or lead effectively. Their track records are not hidden; they are laid bare in the public domain for all to see. And still, they have the boldness to parade themselves as the next messiahs for Nigeria’s woes.
This is not just baffling—it’s an insult to the sensibility of the Nigerian people. It assumes we have either forgotten their failures or are naive enough to fall for their recycled promises and empty rhetoric. These individuals are attempting to position themselves as the alternative. But a closer look at their past reveals a troubling pattern of mismanagement, opportunism, and unfulfilled promises. Together, their histories do not inspire confidence; they raise red flags.
There is no name more fitting than what the group has been described to be: “political internally displaced persons (IDPs).” It’s a fitting label for individuals who seem politically homeless—unstable in both character and ideology. These are politicians who have hopped from one party to another, shifting alliances with the wind, driven not by principle but by a hunger for power. They are political nomads, leaving behind a trail of disappointment wherever they go. The ADA may claim to stand for unity and progress, but their coalition is a fragile patchwork, united only by ambition rather than a shared vision for Nigeria’s future. A coalition that offers little beyond criticism and vague promises, with no clear strategy to back up their words.
The Nigerian people deserve better than this. We deserve leaders whose experience comes with a record of success, not failure. We deserve stability, not political chameleons who change colors to suit the moment. The audacity of this coalition to rebrand their past incompetence as a solution is not just a political stunt—it’s a disrespect to every Nigerian who has borne the brunt of their previous missteps.
In the end, this “coalition of the past” is no answer to Nigeria’s challenges. They are political IDPs—displaced, inconsistent, and unworthy of the trust they seek. It’s time we see through their charade and demand leaders who can truly deliver the change our country needs. Anything less is an affront to our collective intelligence and hope for a better future.
Bolaji Olabode
