Taxis, cows, shoes and Nigeria’s grass-to-grace politics

On September 18, 2010, Goodluck Jonathan stood at Eagle Square, Abuja, and told Nigerians a story that would become his campaign rallying cry for the 2011 elections. As he spoke, he wore his memories of hardship – going to school barefoot, carrying books in his hands and walking long distances to reach the classroom. Four months earlier, President Umaru Yar’Adua had passed away, leaving the nation without a clear leader for months.

Jonathan came forward as Acting President, using the "doctrine of necessity" to inherit the role. Despite the opposition claiming it was their turn under the PDP’s zoning arrangement, Jonathan presented himself to the people with his story, gaining support through the heart-wrenching narrative. In the subsequent election in April 2011, Jonathan defeated Muhammadu Buhari by more than 10 million votes.

Four years later, it was Buhari who, with a humble background, capitalized on the same narrative to secure his victory. In 2014, Buhari claimed to be currently struggling financially, owning around 150 cows and owning houses in various locations – all bought with borrowed money. With his story of anti-corruption and simple beginnings, Buhari rode the wave to the Aso Rock in February 2015.