Blockchain space, the leadership struggles currently unfolding at SiBAN (Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria) highlight a deeply entrenched issue in Nigerian organisational structures — godfatherism. Cabals and godfathers, who wield influence from behind the scenes, have long played a pivotal role in stifling progress and maintaining the status quo in various sectors of Nigerian society.
SiBAN, an organization aimed at promoting blockchain technology and cryptocurrency in Nigeria, is now facing a similar internal battle, threatening to derail the efforts of its president, Obinna Iwuno, the Executive Council, and his progressive Board of executives which boasts of respected thought leaders and practitioners in the blockchain space such as; Rabiu Abdulhameed Jibia, Dania Oluwaseun Narudeen, Emeka Ezike and Mela Claude Ake.
Godfatherism, a term used to describe the influence of powerful individuals or groups, often without formal titles but with substantial sway over organizational decisions, is not new in Nigeria.
This influence can be beneficial when it supports growth and progress. However, more often than not, it is wielded to maintain personal interests, block reforms, and ensure that new, innovative leadership is subdued or removed. This dynamic is seen across political, economic, and even technological sectors, and unfortunately, SiBAN has not escaped its clutches. Blockchain technology, known for decentralization and transparency, stands in stark contrast to the centralization of power represented by godfatherism.
The irony is that even in a body like SiBAN, created to foster innovation and decentralization, old systems of control and suppression still persist. These dynamics are now threatening the leadership of Obinna Iwuno, a progressive leader seeking to drive blockchain and crypto adoption in Nigeria. Under Obinna Iwuno, SiBAN has made strides toward positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global blockchain space. His leadership has been characterized by a forward-thinking approach that embraces innovation, regulatory collaboration, and engagement with global stakeholders.
However, Iwuno’s vision has not come without resistance. The ‘cabals’ entrenched in the organization — who have enjoyed long-standing influence — are working overtime to undermine his efforts.
In response to the ongoing challenges, Iwuno made a powerful statement, dismissing recent negative blog posts as mere distractions from those seeking to derail progress: “The recent blog posts are mere distractions aimed at discrediting my leadership and slowing down the progress SiBAN has made in positioning Nigeria in the global blockchain landscape.
These attacks are not a reflection of our work, but rather the handiwork of a few who refuse to embrace the change and innovation we represent” he said. Despite the clear vision for growth and innovation, these internal power struggles — largely driven by those who favor maintaining the status quo — threaten to disrupt the work Iwuno and his team have been doing.
These factions are opposed to the changes that would democratize decision-making, introduce transparency, and bring fresh ideas into the fold. For a technology as disruptive and forward-thinking as blockchain, this resistance is not only ironic but also counterproductive to the mission of the organization.
Describing some of the detractors as ‘sore losers’, SiBAN President, Obinna Iwuno said, ‘some of them are also sore losers from the last election like Senator Ihenyen, the then incumbent president whom I defeated in the last elections. Instead of conceding defeat and act honourably in advancing SIBAN he has remained bitter. Some like Chris Ani, an unregistered members of SiBAN and Paul Ezeafulukwe, Toritseju Kaka, Ophi Rume, Emmanuel Babalola (Binance staff) have tried to reduce the association to a WhatsApp group’.
In a sector driven by innovation, rapid development, and decentralization, the very presence of godfatherism is a hindrance. It breeds conservatism, discourages risk-taking, and suffocates new ideas.
The old guard, often invested in their own influence, may not fully appreciate the potential for growth that blockchain offers Nigeria, choosing instead to prioritize their own grip on power. Many of those opposing Iwuno’s leadership appear to fear losing control over the resources and decision-making processes within SiBAN.
In this respect, their actions mirror those seen in other Nigerian sectors, where powerful interests work to suppress new leadership that threatens their dominance. Unfortunately, in their quest to protect their vested interests, they risk stalling SiBAN’s progress and, by extension, Nigeria’s potential leadership role in the African blockchain space. For Iwuno and his team, the path forward will not be easy.
The key lies in fostering unity, transparency, and collaboration, even as detractors continue to undermine their efforts. Public accountability and engagement with stakeholders, both locally and globally, can help to highlight the importance of the work being done under Iwuno’s leadership. It is also crucial for Iwuno to continue building partnerships with regulators, the Nigerian government, and international organizations.
The broader blockchain community is watching SiBAN, and signs of internal dysfunction could damage Nigeria’s credibility in this growing industry.