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VENO tv: Bolaji Abdullahi Unveils Memoir “The Loyalist” in Abuja By Kayode Adoide, Lagos
Date: 28-01-26

Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesperson of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Minister of Sports, has unveiled his much-anticipated memoir titled “The Loyalist”, at a well-attended book launch in Abuja.
The event attracted prominent political heavyweights, party leaders, policy thinkers, and media stakeholders, underscoring the relevance of the book in Nigeria’s contemporary political discourse.
Speaking at the launch, Abdullahi described The Loyalist as a deeply reflective account of loyalty, power, mentorship, and political relationships. He noted that loyalty in politics is often tested, and sometimes relationships collapse—not necessarily because of betrayal, but because of conflicting interests and evolving ambitions.
“We can all be loyalists, yet relationships still collapse. Loyalty, especially to a godfather, is complex,” he said.
Notably, the book references his long political association with former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, a relationship spanning over two decades.
On His Experience with Bukola Saraki
As an indigene of Kwara State and a former aide to Saraki, Abdullahi was asked to describe his experience working closely with the former governor and Senate President.
He responded with admiration:
“He is one of the most remarkable people I have walked with. He is focused, extremely hardworking, and an excellent administrator. You may not always agree with him, but his work ethic is unquestionable.”
Abdullahi served as Special Adviser on Policy before being appointed Minister of Sports, a role he said came with both exposure and trials.
Chapter 6: The Governor’s Seat That Never Came
In Chapter 6 of the book, Abdullahi reflects on a moment many readers consider pivotal—his expectation to be supported for the governorship of Kwara State, which did not materialize.
According to him, politics is not always about competence:
“One of the lessons in the book is that in politics, how good you are often becomes secondary. What matters is reciprocity. If I give you something, you must reciprocate.”
He revealed that during his ministerial tenure, he was sacked largely because of his loyalty to Saraki when the latter defected from the PDP to the APC.
“They wanted me to attack my godfather, but I declined.”
Loyalty, Power, and Regret
Despite political setbacks, Abdullahi maintained that he harbors no regrets.
“I have been tested. I was a minister. I was in the shadows. People related with me based on my relationship with Dr. Saraki.”
Although he admitted that trust had been strained over time, he emphasized that respect remains intact.
“The relationship started 20 years ago. I still regard him as my leader and I cannot say anything against him in public.”
Godfatherism and Ideology
Addressing the controversial issue of godfatherism, Abdullahi argued that the concept itself is not inherently wrong.
“Godfatherism is not negative if it is not driven by selfish interest but by ideology. When it is based on shared values, the relationship can endure.”
ADC and the Road Ahead
On the uniqueness of the ADC, Abdullahi disclosed that the party has constituted a 50-man policy committee tasked with drafting a manifesto that will be presented to Nigerians.
“This is not just politics as usual. It is a policy-driven process aimed at redefining governance.”
VENO tv Insight:
The Loyalist is more than a memoir—it is a mirror held up to Nigeria’s political culture, exposing the cost of loyalty, the fragility of power alliances, and the enduring influence of ideology over ambition.

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