A growing wave of dissatisfaction is reportedly shaking the political camp of Zakari Angulu Dobi (Zad), as concerns over uneven reward systems and perceived favoritism threaten to weaken what was once considered a formidable grassroots structure in the Gwagwalada axis of the Federal Capital Territory.
This development follows a strongly worded Facebook post by community organizer and political activist, Muhammed Isah Hassan, who painted a troubling picture of internal discontent, warning that Zad’s greatest challenge may no longer be external opposition, but internal mismanagement of loyalty and influence.
According to Hassan, the failure to recognize and reward long-standing loyalists is gradually eroding trust within the camp, creating cracks that could widen if not urgently addressed.
At the center of this concern is the case of Hon. Saidu Abdullahi Zuba, described as one of Zad’s most consistent and resilient allies in the Zuba zone. Hassan noted that Zuba defected from the Ciroma political bloc over a decade ago to align with Zad and has since maintained unwavering loyalty, even during periods when others abandoned the structure.
Despite commanding influence across key communities from Anagada to Zuba and holding the structure together in difficult times, Hassan lamented that Saidu continues to be treated as “an option rather than a priority,” a situation he says sends a dangerous signal to other loyalists.
“The message is clear,” Hassan implied, “loyalty does not guarantee recognition.”
The situation, he argued, is not isolated. In the Central Zone, figures such as Bades—once visibly committed to Zad’s political vision—have gradually distanced themselves after years of support that, according to observers, did not translate into tangible political reward or inclusion.
Hassan further pointed to what he described as an imbalance in the distribution of opportunities, highlighting the political trajectory of one Yusuf, whose repeated appointments and elevations have sparked quiet discontent within the ranks.
Yusuf’s résumé within the structure includes a one-term Speakership, two terms as Supervisory Councillor, a position within the APC State Executive Committee, a Vice Chairmanship candidacy, and continued placement within the state political framework.
While acknowledging Yusuf’s experience, critics within the camp are reportedly questioning the concentration of political opportunities around a single individual, raising concerns about whether other loyal and capable members are being sidelined.
“This pattern creates an impression that recognition is not evenly distributed,” Hassan noted, adding that such perceptions can undermine confidence and discourage commitment among grassroots mobilizers.
He also raised a hypothetical scenario that has resonated within political circles: whether Yusuf’s dominance would remain unchallenged if he were operating in zones like Zuba or the Central axis, where political pressure is more intense and loyalty is constantly tested.
Political analysts say the unfolding situation underscores a fundamental principle in grassroots politics—structures survive not just on loyalty, but on the consistent reinforcement of that loyalty through inclusion, fairness, and strategic empowerment.
“A political base is like a living organism,” one local observer told Chronicles Reporters. “If certain parts feel neglected while others are overfed, the entire system becomes unstable.”
Hassan concluded his post with a cautionary note, emphasizing that strong political structures are built on balance—spreading influence, empowering stakeholders across zones, and ensuring that sacrifice is matched with opportunity.
As the 2026 political landscape begins to take shape in the FCT, the internal dynamics within Zad’s camp may prove decisive. Whether these concerns are addressed or ignored could determine not just the cohesion of his structure, but its long-term survival.
For now, the message from the grassroots appears unmistakable: loyalty, if left unrewarded, does not endure forever.