Behind President Mahama’s Historic Victory: How Lordina, Debrah & Agongo Stood the Test of Loyalty

Image Credit: John Dramani Mahama

By: Alhaji Aminu Maigaskiya

Politics is a numbers game, but behind every successful politician are loyal allies who have stood by them through thick and thin. These loyalists are the people they laugh and cry with—those who publicly bear the flag for them, even in adversity, and the few who make the impossible possible when hope seems lost. They are the ones who, at times, sacrifice comfort and even life for their leader to thrive.

Around the world, political loyalists are many yet few—and sometimes even non-existent. For a politician in power, everyone seems loyal, often motivated by the potential benefits of association. However, like love and respect, true loyalty is tested when a politician is ‘naked’—stripped of power and not expected to regain it anytime soon.

Having observed President-elect John Dramani Mahama become the first in the Fourth Republic to lose the presidency and reclaim it, I have seen how loyalty has shaped his resurgence. It also highlights what this loyalty could mean for his second-term presidency if it is effectively harnessed.

The Top Three Loyalists

There is no doubt that party executives, from polling stations to the national level, worked tirelessly across the country to deliver this resounding victory for the NDC in both the presidential and parliamentary elections. Beyond the party-structured loyalists, however, are a few close associates who stood steadfastly by President Mahama—through sun, rain, and calm—empowering him to persevere despite the intimidation and frustrations he faced.

Among these, three individuals stand out: his wife, Lordina Mahama; his former Chief of Staff and long-time friend, Julius Debrah; and his quiet but resolute ally and financier, Alhaji Seidu Agongo.

Tower of Loyalty: Lordina Mahama

Mrs. Mahama is not only a loving and devoted wife but also a formidable pillar of support for President Mahama. Her unwavering encouragement boosted his morale and rallied essential support that ultimately propelled him and the NDC back to power.

Her humility and commitment were evident in her numerous charitable initiatives, including establishing children’s clinics, and maternity hospitals, and paying medical bills for the underprivileged across the country. On the campaign trail, she sacrificed comfort, enduring sleepless nights alongside her husband, motivating him during gruelling tours

The Haunted Alhaji Seidu Agongo

Another figure whose loyalty to President Mahama is unquestionable is Alhaji Agongo, a businessman and philanthropist who faced relentless persecution under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government.

Alhaji Agongo’s association with President Mahama dates back to his time as a Member of Parliament and has only strengthened over the years. His loyalty during and after President Mahama’s time in office came at a great personal cost.

Under the Akufo-Addo administration, his businesses suffered severe setbacks, including the collapse of the once-profitable Heritage Bank Ghana Limited in 2019, despite its solvency and compliance with banking regulations. The government’s apparent vendetta sought to undermine President Mahama by targeting his allies like Agongo.

Over the past eight years, Agongo has spent much of his time defending himself in court cases widely viewed as politically motivated. He lost access to credit facilities, which hindered his international transactions, and his businesses were met with scepticism locally.

Despite these challenges, Alhaji Agongo remained unwavering in his support for President Mahama, leveraging his financial and media resources to back the Mahama and NDC campaigns. Even after the collapse of his businesses, he continued his philanthropic efforts—building health facilities, funding education for underprivileged students, and supporting the disadvantaged in society.

The Debrah Factor

Julius Debrah, President Mahama’s former Chief of Staff, is another key figure whose loyalty remains steadfast. A quiet yet strategic ally, Debrah has worked diligently behind the scenes, rallying the youth and strengthening the Mahama brand.

Not one for loud displays, his humility and dedication have earned him admiration among party faithful, who often commend his willingness to support initiatives aligned with Mahama and the NDC’s vision for Ghana.

What’s Next?

In a politically polarized country like Ghana, loyalty is invaluable, especially at a time when citizens have high expectations of President Mahama’s administration to reset the country and steer it towards recovery.

This is the moment for him to rely on the unwavering support of those who stood by him during challenging times and who remain committed to guiding him with sound advice and strategic counsel.

As President Mahama begins his second term, all eyes will be on how this loyalty—tested and proven during his years in the political wilderness—translates into impactful governance.

An experienced politician and leader, President Mahama understands the value of loyalty. He is also adept at distinguishing between blind loyalty and genuine commitment, as exemplified by this trio and many others who have stood by him. This discernment will undoubtedly shape his presidency and his legacy.

Alhassan Hafiz Larry