Dancing is no longer the exclusive preserve of entertainers. Increasingly, Nigerian politicians are taking their moves to the political arena, turning campaign rallies and public gatherings into stages where music, rhythm and political theatre meet.

This is not entirely new. At Independence in 1960 and during the First Republic, Nigerian politicians participated in social, cultural and ceremonial occasions where music and dancing were part of public life. But dancing was largely social entertainment, not the carefully cultivated political brand it has become for some politicians today.

Since the return to democracy in 1999, however, the boundaries between politics and entertainment have become increasingly blurred. Campaigns are no longer just about manifestos, promises and handshakes.

Sometimes, a live band strikes up a tune, a DJ takes over the speakers, the drums roll, and politicians, already in their dancing shoes, abandon the podium for the dance floor.

With energetic steps and carefully choreographed moves, they entertain supporters while projecting a more relaxed, relatable and youthful image.

From Governor Ademola Adeleke’s trademark gyrations to Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s acrobatics and Nyesom Wike’s live-band performances, these politicians have shown that in Nigeria’s colourful political theatre, the ability to move to the beat can sometimes be as memorable as the ability to deliver a speech.

As campaigns for the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections kick off this week, The Guardian spotlights Nigerian politicians whose dance moves have entertained and delighted the public:

1. Ademola Adeleke

The Osun State governor is arguably Nigeria’s most famous dancing politician. Long before becoming governor, Adeleke earned the nickname “Dancing Senator”, with his energetic performances becoming a major feature of his political campaigns. His dancing has since become almost inseparable from his political identity, earning him the more enduring tag, “Dancing Governor.”

2. Adams Oshiomhole

The former Edo State governor and APC chieftain is another politician known for turning campaign platforms into dance floors. Oshiomhole’s performances are often energetic and distinctly acrobatic, particularly during election campaigns. His dance moves have repeatedly provided comic relief and entertainment for supporters at rallies.

3. Nyesom Wike

The FCT Minister brings a different dimension to political dancing. The former Rivers State governor is particularly known for dancing to the performances of live bands at political and social gatherings. Wike often appears visibly energised by the music, making his dance performances part of the entertainment surrounding major political events.

4. Dino Melaye

The former Kogi West senator combined politics with singing, dancing and theatrical performances. Melaye’s flamboyant personality made entertainment a major part of his public image, earning him the nickname “Singing Senator.” His dramatic performances often generated as much attention as his political speeches.

5. Yahaya Bello

The former Kogi State governor and  2027 APC Kogi Central Senatorial senatorial candidate, has also displayed his dancing skills at political events and celebrations. His energetic appearances became part of the political entertainment surrounding his campaigns and public engagements.

6. Rauf Aregbesola

The former Osun State governor, ex-Minister of Interior and current National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is another politician known for his energetic dance displays, particularly at political rallies and celebrations. His lively personality often translated into spirited performances before supporters.

7. Prof. Chukwuma Soludo

Even the cerebral economist and former Central Bank governor has shown that he is not immune to the lure of the dance floor, joining his son in a viral dance and later displaying his moves during his re-election celebrations. His inclusion adds a lighter, more relatable dimension to the growing list of Nigerian politicians who have embraced dance as part of their public persona.

From Adeleke’s trademark gyrations to Oshiomhole’s acrobatics and Wike’s live-band performances, these politicians demonstrate one enduring feature of Nigerian politics: sometimes, winning the crowd requires more than a good speech. You have to move to the music.