In a stunning revelation, former Abia governor Orji Kalu claimed he bankrolled Nigeria’s political transition in 1998, donating $1 million to Olusegun Obasanjo and N500 million to the fledgling PDP. His disclosure reignites debates about money’s role in Nigerian politics and the unmet promises of democracy.
- 1998 Kingmaker Role: Kalu positioned himself as a key financier of Obasanjo’s early political career and the PDP’s formation.
- Inflation Context: $1 million in 1998 equates to ~$2.3 million today—a staggering sum amid Nigeria’s economic crisis.
- Elite Self-Reflection: Kalu urged an end to political feuds (“abusing Tinubu, Atiku, Amaechi should stop”) and focus on governance.
- Unfulfilled Promises: His call for “three meals a day” and good roads contrasts with Nigeria’s current realities.
- Historical Parallels: Highlights how private wealth has long shaped Nigerian politics, from 1999’s return to democracy to present-day campaigns.
When political kingmakers grow weary of infighting, even they admit: Nigeria’s democracy has fed the powerful more than the people.
