By || Goodluck E. Adubazi || Abuja
A civil society group, Friends of Africa and Nigeria for Good Governance (FOAN), has hailed the newly launched book The Loyalist by the National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, describing it as timely and crucial to Nigeria’s current political realities.
The book was unveiled on Tuesday at the Barcelona Hotel, Abuja, amid growing concerns over political loyalty, godfatherism, and leadership crises in the country.
In a statement signed by its President, Joseph Uchenyo Johnson, FOAN said Nigeria is currently grappling with a “complex political loyalty syndrome,” making the publication of The Loyalist both relevant and necessary.
According to the group, the persistent conflicts between political godfathers and their successors across several states have weakened governance and public trust. FOAN noted that Abdullahi’s book offers a philosophical and practical framework for understanding loyalty beyond personal interests.
“The era of unending godfather–godson political crises has continued to undermine democratic governance. This book provides clarity and a pathway to resolving these complexities,” the statement read.
FOAN, which described itself as a strong advocate of party democracy and good governance, urged Nigerian politicians to place the interests of the people above personal ambition, especially as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The group commended Abdullahi for what it described as a “painstaking memoir of service and sacrifice,” adding that the book reinforces the core values of leadership, responsibility, and national commitment.
FOAN highlighted the five forms of loyalty outlined in The Loyalist, which include loyalty as duty to country, loyalty as devotion, loyalty as occupation, loyalty as protection, and loyalty as inspiration. The group particularly praised “loyalty as inspiration,” describing it as the highest form of loyalty anchored on ideals greater than individuals.
According to the book, loyalty to the nation remains non-negotiable, regardless of hardship, while loyalty rooted in inspiration encourages individuals to become the best versions of themselves rather than being bound by fear or self-interest.
Addressing recurring political betrayals across states such as Kano and Kaduna, the book argues that godfatherism itself is not inherently wrong, but often fails because it lacks ideological foundations and shared values.
FOAN said the insights offered in The Loyalist could help Nigerian leaders build sustainable political relationships based on ideology, mutual respect, and national interest rather than personal loyalty.
The group recommended the book to political leaders, aspiring politicians, and young Nigerians, urging them to study and apply its principles as the country navigates its current political and governance challenges.
