Why Nigerian Politicians Are Not Thinking About Death But Always Focused On The 2027 Elections

Mohammad Dauda

In Nigeria, politics is often seen as a lifelong pursuit rather than a temporary service to the people. The country’s political class rarely considers the inevitable reality of death; instead, they remain fixated on future elections, particularly the highly anticipated 2027 general elections. But why is this the case? Why do Nigerian politicians act as though they will live forever, making decisions that prioritize power retention over national development?

In many developed democracies, politicians serve their terms and exit the stage gracefully. In Nigeria, however, politics is a lifelong profession. Many politicians see holding office as their primary career, using their positions to amass wealth and influence. Since power guarantees privileges, they are constantly strategizing for the next election rather than planning for a legacy that will outlive them.

For Nigerian politicians, being in power is not just about governance—it is about influence, control, and access to resources. Losing an election often means fading into irrelevance. As a result, rather than reflecting on mortality and how they will be remembered, they focus on staying politically relevant, even if it means manipulating the system for personal gain.

Great leaders throughout history are remembered not for the number of elections they won but for the impact they made. Unfortunately, many Nigerian politicians do not think about how they will be remembered after death. Unlike leaders such as Nelson Mandela, who prioritized legacy over power, Nigerian politicians are more concerned about retaining their positions than leaving behind lasting positive change.

Barely months after the 2023 elections, politicians have already shifted focus to the 2027 general elections. Instead of concentrating on governance, they are busy aligning with power brokers, forming new alliances, and making decisions that serve their electoral ambitions rather than the people’s interests. This obsession with future elections leads to short-term policies, abandoned projects, and a lack of commitment to national progress.

Another reason why Nigerian politicians do not think about death is the illusion of invincibility. Surrounded by wealth, security, and sycophants who praise them constantly, many believe they will always be in control. This mindset blinds them to the reality of life’s impermanence, making them prioritize political survival over meaningful service.

For Nigeria to progress, politicians must shift their focus from winning elections to building a lasting legacy. Leaders should prioritize governance over political scheming and think about the impact of their actions on future generations. Instead of seeing power as an inheritance, they should embrace leadership as a responsibility.

Ultimately, history remembers great leaders not for the number of elections they contested but for the positive changes they made. Nigerian politicians must start thinking beyond 2027 and focus on leaving behind a nation that future generations will be proud of.

Death is inevitable, but legacy is eternal. Nigerian politicians must wake up to this reality and start making decisions that prioritize national development over political ambition. The obsession with future elections must give way to a new culture of selfless leadership, where governance is about service, not just strategy for power retention. If this change does not happen, the cycle will continue, and Nigeria will remain stuck in a loop of unfulfilled promises.

Mohammad is a journalist from kano