The politics of self-interest and the rise of opportunistic loyalty

BY OGECHI OKORO

The recent list of ambassadorial nominees revealed more than just names; it provided insight into the character of our political class. Some of those chosen are notable, not because of their qualifications, but because of how vehemently they once opposed the very administration now embracing them. Their return under the same government’s banner they once fought against exposes a deeper truth about political behaviour: ideology is optional, but self-interest is constant.

This trend isn’t unique to Nigeria. When I expanded my view to the global stage, the pattern became even clearer. Across nations and political systems, many politicians follow a similar blueprint. Their main motivator isn’t public service but enlightened self-interest, a relentless pursuit of influence, prestige, and the comforts of power. The political game, as it often unfolds, begins with “me” before considering “others.”

A friend recently lamented that someone like Reno Omokri is now working with President Tinubu. I could only laugh. It’s this very tendency, expecting idealism from those who survive by pragmatism, that keeps many of us irrelevant in the political hierarchy. Reno is, by all signs, a strategic opportunist. He understands Nigeria’s political landscape and navigates it with agility. In a system that rewards constant reinvention, his ability to pivot isn’t a flaw; it’s currency.

Few pause to ask what Reno might lose by accepting such an appointment. The simple truth is very little. His public persona has never been anchored to a fixed moral or ideological compass. This makes his acceptance not only unsurprising but also rational. Whether one approves of his methods or not, he has mastered the art of aligning himself with political currents that benefit his interests.

And this behaviour isn’t rare. Consider the United States, where JD Vance and Marco Rubio once publicly clashed with Donald Trump, only to become key allies today. Political loyalty is often fleeting, driven less by conviction and more by opportunity. To outsiders, this seems hypocritical. To those who follow politics closely, it’s expected. The system rewards those who can manipulate narratives, contradict themselves without consequence, and still maintain public influence.

Reno’s journey mirrors that of many who understand the difference between doing things right and doing the right things. The establishment often rewards the former, technical loyalty, rhetorical precision, and strategic positioning over the latter, which demands moral courage that rarely pays. Femi Fani-Kayode (FFK) also fits this mold. His eloquence and confidence have always made him a compelling figure, even when his actions raise questions.

In truth, the rise of figures like Reno and FFK says less about their character and more about the political ecosystem that fosters them. They are products, not outliers. And as long as political systems here and elsewhere continue to prioritise personal loyalty, convenience, and narrative flexibility, such figures will thrive.

They have played the game well enough to earn their rewards. For that, at least, one must acknowledge their mastery.

Dr Ogechi Okoro writes from Hamilton, New Zealand