An appraisal of the influence of political godfatherism on grassroots governance in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State.
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Background of the Study:
Political godfatherism has emerged as a critical force in shaping grassroots governance in many Nigerian communities, particularly in areas where traditional patronage networks are deeply entrenched. In Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State, influential political figures—often referred to as political godfathers—exert significant control over local political processes, candidate selection, and resource allocation, frequently bypassing formal democratic channels (Ogunbayo, 2023). This practice, characterized by the exchange of political support for loyalty and patronage, undermines transparency and accountability, as decisions are driven more by personal affiliations than by merit or public interest (Akinremi, 2024). Consequently, policy implementation and community development suffer, with corruption and inefficiency becoming pervasive. Moreover, political godfatherism can stifle grassroots participation and hinder the emergence of a more inclusive democratic process. This study critically assesses the impact of political godfatherism on grassroots governance in Abeokuta South, examining the mechanisms through which patronage influences decision-making and public service delivery, and highlighting the challenges posed by this informal power structure (Adekunle, 2025).
Statement of the Problem:
Grassroots governance in Abeokuta South is significantly compromised by the pervasive influence of political godfatherism. This practice leads to a concentration of power in the hands of a few influential figures, marginalizing alternative voices and undermining democratic processes (Babatunde, 2023). Political godfatherism fosters corruption and nepotism, resulting in poor service delivery, inadequate infrastructure, and inefficiencies in local governance. The lack of transparency in political appointments and resource distribution further erodes public trust in government institutions. This situation hampers community development and reinforces socio-political disparities, highlighting the need for a critical evaluation of how political patronage undermines effective grassroots governance. Addressing this issue is essential for restoring accountability and improving the overall performance of local government institutions (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
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To examine the role of political godfatherism in influencing grassroots governance in Abeokuta South.
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To identify the negative impacts of political godfatherism on local governance.
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To propose strategies to mitigate the influence of political godfatherism in local government.
Research Questions:
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How does political godfatherism influence grassroots governance in Abeokuta South?
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What are the adverse effects of political godfatherism on local governance?
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What measures can be implemented to reduce the negative impact of political godfatherism?
Research Hypotheses:
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Political godfatherism significantly influences decision-making processes in grassroots governance.
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The presence of political godfathers negatively affects transparency and accountability.
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Regulatory reforms can reduce the negative impacts of political godfatherism.
Significance of the Study:
This study is significant as it provides a critical analysis of the influence of political godfatherism on grassroots governance in Abeokuta South. The insights derived will inform strategies to enhance democratic practices and accountability in local government, thereby promoting more effective community development (Oluwaseun, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to examining the influence of political godfatherism on grassroots governance in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State, focusing exclusively on local political dynamics.
Definitions of Terms:
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Political Godfatherism: The practice of influential political figures exerting control over political processes through patronage (Faleye, 2023).
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Grassroots Governance: Administration and decision-making processes at the local community level (Adeola, 2024).
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Patronage: The support provided by a patron in exchange for loyalty and political support (Olatunde, 2023).
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