Tricky art of campaign rallies
The most visible element of the Nigerian political season is the rally, and until last Saturday when the ruling APC launched its presidential campaign with a rally in Kaduna, most
Campaign rallies are a defining feature of the Nigerian political season, but they require substantial effort and resources to execute effectively. Organizing a rally involves securing a venue, decorating it with banners, mobilizing supporters, providing food and transportation, and delivering speeches. While some politicians claim that rallies are not difficult to organize, it is clear that a significant amount of money is needed.
The Nigerian ruling party APC once claimed that N2.3 trillion had been allocated for a rally in Kaduna, but this was later revealed to be a hoax.
The impact of a rally on the political landscape is significant. It allows the party to showcase its popularity and reach a wider audience through TV broadcasts and social media. However, supporters may have doubts about the authenticity of the rally, questioning the involvement of the attendees and the sincerity of their support. Rally organizers also aim to intimidate opponents by making their event appear impressive, thereby raising doubts about the popularity of rival parties.
Despite the ostentatious nature of campaign rallies, they are not the only aspect of Nigerian political campaigns. In the lead-up to the APC rally in Kaduna, the party's VIP team visited influential clerics and traditional rulers. This practice is rooted in tradition, but it also presents challenges, as traditional rulers are expected to remain non-partisan. Still, politicians visit these leaders to demonstrate respect for the community and potentially secure their support.
The authenticity of the visits made by politicians to traditional rulers and clerics is questionable. Candidates often lavish praise on these leaders, and wealthy politicians may throw money their way. On the other hand, traditional rulers may feel obligated to support politicians who have appointed them. Additionally, candidates sometimes engage in flamboyant displays in front of the traditional rulers, in an attempt to sway their opinions.
The "truth" shared with these leaders, especially when reporters are not present, remains a closely guarded secret.
Written by urgent.news from This Day's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
