Former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, has confirmed the existence of a powerful cabal in Aso Rock during Buhari’s administration, describing it as an inevitable feature of Nigerian governance.
Speaking in a revealing interview on *Inside Sources with Laolu Akande* on Channels TV, Gambari—a seasoned diplomat and scholar—pulled back the curtain on the inner workings of the Buhari presidency, detailing how an influential inner circle often circumvented official directives despite Buhari’s insistence on due process.
There Was a Cabal—Just Like in Every Government.
Gambari acknowledged that informal power blocs are not unique to Buhari’s government, drawing parallels to past administrations.
“There was a cabal in Aso Rock during Buhari’s administration—just like in every other administration,” he said. “Some may call them a kitchen cabinet, others call them a think tank. Obasanjo also had a group of people like that. It’s the nature of the office of the President.”
He explained that every Nigerian leader relies on a trusted inner circle, but Buhari’s case was distinct because certain individuals wielded disproportionate influence, sometimes overriding formal government structures.
How the Cabal Bypassed the System.
Gambari, who served as Chief of Staff from 2020 to 2023, recalled that Buhari had explicitly ordered that all memos pass through his office—a directive even Vice President Yemi Osinbajo adhered to. Yet, he revealed, some individuals found ways to sidestep the process.
“When I was appointed as Chief of Staff, the President made it clear that every memo must pass through my office—even the Vice President complied. Yet, some people still found ways to bypass the process. They knew the weak points—who to use—and he never stopped them,” Gambari disclosed.
Though he refrained from naming names, his comments align with long-standing allegations that Buhari’s presidency was heavily influenced by a shadowy network of family members, close associates, and powerful aides—often accused of running a parallel government.
Buhari Knew, But Sometimes Allowed It.
Gambari clarified that Buhari was not entirely unaware or powerless against the cabal’s maneuvers. In some cases, the former president would reverse questionable decisions when confronted. However, there were instances where Buhari allegedly permitted the interference—even if it undermined his own directives.
“When some memos came back to me and we talked about certain decisions, he would immediately change some. But for others, he would say, ‘Prof., let this go—just to protect me,’”* Gambari revealed.
This admission suggests that Buhari, at times, tolerated the cabal’s influence for political or personal reasons, raising questions about accountability and governance during his tenure.
Echoes from Past Governments.
Gambari’s revelations reinforce a recurring pattern in Nigerian politics, where informal power structures often overshadow formal institutions. Similar allegations have trailed previous administrations:
– Obasanjo’s Presidency: Known for his strong-willed leadership, Obasanjo still relied on a close-knit group of advisers, including the infamous “Lagos Boys” and key ministers who shaped major policies.
– Yar’Adua Era:The “Katsina Cabal” was widely believed to have influenced Yar’Adua’s decisions, while Jonathan’s presidency faced accusations of being controlled by a “Bayelsa Mafia.”
– Tinubu’s Current Government: Though still early, analysts are already watching for signs of an emerging inner circle, especially given recent defections and political realignments.
Implications for Nigeria’s Governance
Gambari’s disclosures highlight systemic weaknesses in Nigeria’s presidential system, where informal networks often override institutional processes. His account also fuels ongoing debates about transparency, accountability, and the concentration of power in the hands of a few unelected individuals.
As Nigeria continues to navigate its democratic journey, the lessons from Buhari’s presidency—and the role of the cabal—serve as a cautionary tale for future administrations.
What do you think about Gambari’s revelations? Share your thoughts in the comments.**
