Over the past 25 years, Nigeria’s fourth republic has witnessed the rise and fall of many powerful politicians. According to Abuja-based political analyst Salihu Mahmud Dantata, corruption, a winner-take-all mentality, and unethical behavior have been the primary reasons for their political demise.The downfall of Nigeria’s fourth republic politicians resulting from corruption and unethical behavior has significant implications for the country’s political stability and economic development. If left unchecked, it could lead to further political unrest, economic instability, and a decline in trust in government institutions.One notable example is Ibrahim Salisu Buhari, who became the youngest Speaker of the House of Representatives in 1999. However, his career was abruptly cut short as a result of a scandal involving his age and educational qualifications. Buhari was forced to resign after only six weeks in office.Patricia Etteh, the first and only woman to become Speaker of the House of Representatives, also saw her political career marred by allegations of corruption. Despite not being indicted, she resigned amid a scandal involving the awarding of a N628 million contract for the renovation of her official residence and the purchase of official vehicles.Peter Odili, a former governor of Rivers State, has faced accusations of fraud amounting to N100 billion. Although a court injunction has protected him from prosecution, these allegations have severely tarnished his reputation and hampered his political ambitions.Kema Chikwe, who served as Minister of Transport and Aviation, has made several unsuccessful attempts to secure gubernatorial and senatorial positions in Imo State. Despite her setbacks, she continues to contribute to political discourse in her role as chair of the Women Leadership Institute.Bamanga Tukur, a businessman and politician, has held various influential positions, including Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His career, however, has not been without controversy, including allegations of corruption.Dantata emphasizes that a healthy democracy requires a balance of experienced and new politicians. He argues that the winner-take-all system should integrate seasoned politicians who can serve as experts and guide the younger generation. ‘It is important to have experienced politicians who can guide the younger generation,’ Dantata asserts.The broader context of Nigeria’s economic decline, which began in the 1980s under President Babangida’s administration, has also played a role in the political environment. The shift towards financialization at the expense of the manufacturing sector has led to increased corruption and economic instability.Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, a Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation to the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), points out that the neglect of the manufacturing sector is a key reason for Nigeria’s economic woes. Dele Kelvin Oye Esq., National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), calls for changes in monetary policies to stabilize the economy.Nigeria’s fourth republic serves as a case study in the consequences of corruption, winner-take-all mentality, and unethical behavior in politics. The rise and fall of politicians like Ibrahim Salisu Buhari, Patricia Etteh, Peter Odili, Kema Chikwe, and Bamanga Tukur highlight the need for a balanced and ethical political system.Key Takeaways Corruption, winner-take-all mentality, and unethical behavior led to the downfall of many Nigerian politicians. Unchecked corruption can lead to political unrest, economic instability, and declining trust in government. Notable politicians like Ibrahim Buhari, Patricia Etteh, and Peter Odili saw their careers marred by corruption allegations. A balanced democracy requires a mix of experienced and new politicians to guide the younger generation. Nigeria’s economic decline, starting in the 1980s, has contributed to corruption and political instability.
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