Veteran Nigerian comedian Alibaba has shocked many with an eye-opening account of how former President Olusegun Obasanjo once broke down the real strategies behind winning Nigeria’s top seat.
Speaking on the Outside the Box Podcast, Alibaba shared a private conversation he had with Obasanjo, where the ex-president outlined the critical power moves needed to win an election in Nigeria.
“Ali, I’m happy you’re catching up with politics, but you still have a lot to learn—like how you get governors and presidents elected,” Obasanjo reportedly told him.
According to Alibaba, Obasanjo explained that winning seven key states—Lagos, Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Kano, Kaduna, and control of the CBN—is essential. While Lagos and the South-South provide the funds, Kano and Kaduna deliver the numbers.
Key Strategies Obasanjo Allegedly Shared:
- Control 44 top senatorial districts for national reach.
- Award 10 strategic contracts in your first year, using 15% of each to build future political support.
- Suspend corruption cases against wealthy ex-governors to gain their “war chest” backing.
- Secure backing from international powers like the US or China.
- Mobilize grassroots bodies: NANS, market women, NURTW.
- Disrupt organized labour to weaken opposition.
- Recruit top 10 richest Nigerians to support your campaign.
- Buy party delegates one year in advance and infiltrate rival parties.
Alibaba’s recount sheds rare light on how economic, political, and international forces shape Nigeria’s highest office—highlighting the behind-the-scenes tactics that go far beyond public campaigns.
