When Donatus Matthew Bites The Hand That Fed Him, by Isaac Asabor

In the labyrinth of Nigerian politics, where loyalty is often sacrificed at the altar of ambition, the story of Donatus Matthew, a former Okada rider turned federal lawmaker, serves as a glaring illustration of opportunism. Matthew’s remarkable ascent to the House of Representatives as a representative of Kaura Federal Constituency in Southern Kaduna under the Labour Party (LP) banner was a beacon of hope, a testimony to the power of grassroots support. However, his recent defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) reveals the darker side of Nigerian politics: the propensity to betray the very platform and people who propelled one to power.  

Matthew’s journey from being an Okada rider to a federal lawmaker captured the imagination of many Nigerians. His victory over Gideon Gwani, a four-term incumbent and Minority Chief Whip of the House of Representatives under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), was nothing short of revolutionary. It symbolized a shift in the political dynamics of Kaura Federal Constituency, fueled by the “Obidient wave” led by Peter Obi’s Labour Party.  

His story resonated deeply with Nigerians disillusioned by the political status quo. Matthew embodied the aspirations of ordinary citizens seeking representation by leaders who understood their struggles. His victory was celebrated far and wide, with activists like Stephen Kefason hailing it as a victory for the people of Southern Kaduna.  

Yet, less than two years into his tenure, Matthew has dealt a heavy blow to his supporters by defecting to the APC. This defection, coming from a man whose rise was rooted in the grassroots mobilization and ideological fervor of the Labour Party, is nothing short of a betrayal. It is a painful reminder of the opportunistic tendencies that plague Nigerian politics.  

Activist Stephen Kefason, one of Matthew’s early supporters, expressed his disappointment in a scathing post on X (formerly Twitter). Kefason did not mince words, describing Matthew as “opportunistic” and accusing him of capitalizing on Peter Obi’s popularity to secure his position, only to abandon the movement once his political ambitions were achieved.  

Matthew’s defection is not an isolated incident. It is symptomatic of a broader culture of political nomadism in Nigeria, where politicians shift allegiances for personal gain rather than ideological convictions. This behavior erodes the foundation of democracy, which thrives on accountability and trust between leaders and the electorate.  

In Matthew’s case, the timing and nature of his defection suggest that it was motivated by political convenience rather than any principled disagreement with the Labour Party’s ideology. The APC, as the ruling party, offers access to resources, patronage, and political cover, temptations that many politicians find irresistible.  

However, this culture of defection has far-reaching consequences. It diminishes public trust in politicians and undermines the credibility of political parties. When leaders like Matthew abandon the platforms that brought them to prominence, they send a message that political promises and commitments are expendable.  

Matthew’s actions raise serious questions about his character and priorities. His victory was not merely a personal achievement but a mandate entrusted to him by voters who believed in the ideals of the Labour Party and the broader “Obidient movement.” By defecting to the APC, Matthew has disregarded the trust of his constituents and aligned himself with a party that many of his supporters view as emblematic of the problems they sought to change.  

Critics have also pointed to Matthew’s underwhelming performance as a lawmaker. Since joining the National Assembly, he has reportedly not sponsored any bills or motions. This lack of legislative activity further fuels the perception that his defection is less about serving his constituents and more about securing his political future.  

Matthew’s defection underscores a troubling reality in Nigerian politics: the absence of ideological commitment among many politicians. Parties are treated as mere vehicles for achieving power, with little regard for their principles or the electorate’s aspirations. This trend undermines the development of strong political institutions and perpetuates a cycle of instability and disillusionment.  

For voters, such betrayals deepen cynicism and apathy, making it harder to mobilize grassroots support for future movements. Why invest time, energy, and hope in a leader who might abandon their mandate at the first opportunity?  

At its core, Matthew’s defection is a betrayal of trust. The Labour Party and the “Obidient wave” represented more than just a political movement; they symbolized a collective desire for change, for a new kind of politics that prioritized the needs of the people over personal ambition. By abandoning the Labour Party, Matthew has not only bitten the hand that fed him but also trampled on the hopes of those who believed in him.  

Matthew’s defection should serve as a wake-up call for political parties, voters, and institutions. Against the foregoing backdrop, it is expedient to opine that a few steps that can help mitigate the damage caused by such betrayals cut across strengthening party discipline, instilling voter accountability, instilling civic education, and reforming the political system. 

The put the foregoing steps in details, it is expedient to opine that political parties must establish mechanisms to discourage defections, such as requiring defectors to relinquish their seats. This would ensure that mandates remain tied to the parties that earned them.  

In a similar vein, constituents must hold their representatives accountable, demanding transparency and engagement throughout their tenure. Defections that betray the electorate’s trust should be met with public condemnation and political consequences.  

Also in a similar vein, there is the need for the education of voters about the importance of ideological consistency and the role of political parties in governance can help create a more informed electorate.  

Added to the above steps is that Nigeria’s political system must be restructured to prioritize service delivery over personal gain. This includes addressing the excessive perks and privileges that make political office so attractive.  

In fact, Donatus Matthew’s defection from the Labour Party to the APC is more than a personal decision; it is a reflection of the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s political landscape. By biting the hand that fed him, Matthew has not only betrayed his party and supporters but also highlighted the urgent need for reform in how politics is practiced in the country.  

For the electorate, Matthew’s actions serve as a stark reminder to scrutinize leaders not just for their promises but also for their commitment to principles. Trust is the currency of democracy, and when it is squandered, the cost is borne by all.  

As Nigeria grapples with its political challenges, one thing is clear: the path to a better future requires leaders who are not just opportunists but true representatives of the people. Donatus Matthew’s story is a cautionary tale, a lesson in the dangers of placing hope in leaders who prioritize ambition over service.