I’ve been thinking a lot about loyalty, trust, and the rewards that often come with loyalty. As someone actively involved in the power play of politics—where loyalty is sacrosanct and its reward often expected—I’m compelled to reflect on a concept I’ve titled: Loyalty: Between You, Your Benefactor, and Your Benefactor’s Enemy.
Let’s begin with a reflection rooted in a spiritual analogy—the story of God and Satan. Ordinarily, man had no business being involved in what transpired between Satan and God. According to religious narratives, there was a rebellion in heaven. Satan, once a high-ranking angel, was accused and labeled a rebel against God. This cosmic disagreement, as told in scripture, took place beyond human sight or presence. Yet, humanity was dragged into the conflict.
Rather than keeping the battle between Himself and Satan, God—jealously—dragged man into the conflict. As a result, Satan became not just God’s adversary, but man’s enemy too. Over time, mankind—seeing God as its Creator and benefactor—took sides and chose to stand with Him, without questioning the complexities of that original fallout. In doing so, man branded Satan as the ultimate embodiment of evil—largely because his benefactor did.
This analogy reflects a pattern we see in real life. A well-known Nigerian politician once told his inner circle: “I’m not worried that my friends are also friends with my enemies. My worry is that I can’t leave my drink uncovered with a friend who is also loyal to someone plotting against me.” That sentiment captures the tension between trust and divided loyalty.
In life, no one is dragging you into their personal battles—but your interests will inevitably force you to take sides. When you benefit from someone—emotionally, materially, or professionally—you owe it to yourself to reflect on where you truly stand. You can’t profess loyalty to your benefactor while openly aligning with those who work against them. That kind of double-sided relationship raises serious trust issues—and trust is the foundation of any genuine friendship or alliance.
Sometimes, even when you don’t personally benefit from a particular political figure, the mere fact that their style of politics resonates with you can make you automatically dislike their opponents.
You can’t enjoy the privileges of my support, protection, or goodwill while maintaining close ties with those who seek my downfall. That’s not neutrality—it’s betrayal disguised as diplomacy.
Ultimately, let your interests and values guide your associations. But always remember this:
You cannot be my friend and also be an enemy to my benefactor.
Don’t be a double agent. Be proud of who you stand with, and have strong reasons for standing with them. Being a fair-weather ally is dangerous—not just to others, but to yourself.
You can’t sit on the fence. Pick a side. Unless you’re a snitch and a spy.
