Hidden Powers: Fagge Highlights Cabal Influence In Nigerian Leadership

Hidden Powers: Fagge Highlights Cabal Influence In Nigerian Leadership

Kamilu Sani Fagge, a political scientist and professor at Bayero University, Kano, has expressed concern over the influence of cabals in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. According to Fagge, while cabals—often referred to as kitchen cabinets or deep state operatives—are not unique ,,,READ MORE…

to Nigeria, their mode of operation in the country is distinct.

Fagge explained that in many nations, these groups wield influence but seldom interfere with the routine governance of the state. However, in Nigeria, their role tends to be more invasive and disruptive.

He reflected on similar occurrences during the administrations of former Presidents Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari, noting that the current government is also being influenced by such entities. According to Fagge, these cabals often consist of individuals close to the president, including family members, friends, and political allies.

“In many countries, there are formal and informal groups that influence the president,” Fagge said. “They are often referred to as the inner or kitchen cabinet, comprising loyal confidants who impact policy decisions. Similarly, the deep state consists of influential figures with close ties to the government. However, in other climes, these groups are often formally recognized and constitutionally appointed, unlike what we see in Nigeria.”

He criticized the tendency of Nigerian cabals to shield the president from the public and monopolize decision-making, sometimes without the president being fully aware of the realities on the ground.

Fagge highlighted past instances, such as during Yar’Adua’s tenure when powerful individuals withheld information about his health and engaged in unconstitutional activities. Similarly, during Buhari’s administration, cabals allegedly wielded significant control over state policies, bypassing constitutionally mandated institutions.

He emphasized that this trend continues under Tinubu’s government, with cabals playing an outsized role in shaping policies and isolating the president from the populace.