Why Deputy Governors Rarely Succeed Their Bosses in Nigeria

In Nigerian politics, one pattern has remained stubbornly consistent deputy governors almost never succeed the governors they serve under. Across states, the story is the same: mistrust, political rivalry, and systemic sidelining make the deputy’s seat one of the most frustrating offices in government.

In Kebbi State, former deputy governors Bello Dantani Argungu and Ibrahim Aliyu explained that zoning politics and weak agreements often stand in the way. According to them, unless there’s a solid pact and genuine trust a deputy governor’s ambition to take over is as good as dead.

Former Niger State deputy governor, Ahmed Mohammed Ketso, said the problem runs deeper. He revealed that most governors deliberately keep their deputies out of financial dealings and key decisions, fearing they might expose mismanagement if they ever take over. He added that those around the governor  advisers and political loyalists  usually fan the flames of mistrust.

“Governors are scared that once their deputies gain power, they’ll pay them back for years of suppression,” Ketso said.

In Enugu, Sunday Onyebuchi still remembers how his dream of becoming governor ended abruptly in 2014 when he was impeached. He described the move as a “politically motivated plan” to end his career and block him from succeeding his boss, Sullivan Chime.

Imo’s Prince Eze Madumere tells a similar story. Once promised the governorship by Rochas Okorocha, he was later sidelined when Okorocha chose his son-in-law instead. “Deputy governors in Nigeria are like spare tyres,” Madumere said. “You’re only useful when needed.”

Yet, a few deputies have defied the odds  though mostly by circumstance, not design. Lucky Aiyedatiwa became governor of Ondo after the death of Rotimi Akeredolu. Goodluck Jonathan’s rise from Bayelsa deputy governor to President of Nigeria began after his boss was impeached. The late Patrick Yakowa, Virginia Etiaba, Adebayo Alao-Akala, Ibrahim Gaidam, David Umahi, and Abdullahi Ganduje also ascended to power after political twists of fate.

Still, these cases are exceptions rather than the rule. Until Nigeria’s political culture embraces trust, accountability, and genuine partnerships between governors and their deputies, the office of the deputy governor will remain what many call it  “a beautiful trap,” full of promise, but rarely leading to power.