Infiltrate Parties, Win Governors: Alibaba Breaks Down Obasanjo’s Political Playbook

Veteran comedian and social commentator Atunyota Akpobome, popularly known as Alibaba, has stirred fresh political conversations after unpacking what he calls the “Obasanjo strategy”—a ruthless and calculated approach to winning elections in Nigeria.

Speaking during a candid panel session at the Lagos Ideas Forum over the weekend, Alibaba didn’t hold back as he described how former President Olusegun Obasanjo allegedly deployed tactical infiltration and alliance-building with state governors to cement his grip on power.

“You don’t win elections in Nigeria by shouting on social media. You infiltrate political parties and secure the governors. That’s what Obasanjo did, and it worked,” Alibaba said, drawing nods—and raised eyebrows—from the audience.

The “Obasanjo Template”: Political Chess, Not Checkers

Obasanjo, who ruled Nigeria as a civilian president from 1999 to 2007, is often remembered for his strong command of the political terrain. But according to Alibaba, it wasn’t just charisma or statesmanship that won him elections—it was strategic infiltration, negotiations behind closed doors, and leveraging the influence of state governors, the real political kingmakers in Nigeria.

“He didn’t just run for office—he ran the system,” Alibaba added.

In Nigerian politics, governors wield massive influence, often controlling state-level party structures, mobilization machinery, and, crucially, delegates during primaries. Securing their loyalty can make or break any presidential hopeful’s ambition.

Reactions Pour In

Unsurprisingly, Alibaba’s remarks sparked waves across political circles and social media. Supporters of Obasanjo praised the former president’s political foresight, while critics accused Alibaba of glamorizing political manipulation.

Political analyst Dr. Rukaiya Aminu weighed in:

“Whether you like Obasanjo or not, his understanding of Nigeria’s political power grid is undeniable. Alibaba simply voiced what many insiders already know—governors aren’t just part of the system, they are the system.”

Lessons for Today’s Politicians?

With Nigeria heading into another election cycle in 2027, Alibaba’s breakdown of Obasanjo’s tactics comes at a time when many new entrants—especially youth-driven and tech-savvy movements—are struggling to translate popularity into power.

“Online support doesn’t win polling units. Influence on the ground, in the wards, with the delegates—that’s where elections are decided,” Alibaba emphasized.

His message is clear: to win elections in Nigeria, understanding power dynamics is more important than going viral.

Obasanjo Yet to Respond

As of press time, former President Obasanjo has not commented on Alibaba’s remarks. However, given his known fondness for speaking truth to power—and occasionally stirring the political pot himself—Nigerians wouldn’t be surprised if a response is brewing.

Final Thoughts

Whether you see it as a cynical take or a brutally honest analysis, Alibaba’s comments reignite a long-running debate in Nigerian politics: Is the system too broken to fix from the outside, or must one play the game to change the rules?

In a country where power isn’t just earned but carefully negotiated, Obasanjo’s so-called strategy may be less of a secret—and more of a manual.