**The Elusive Dream of Change in Nigeria's Politics: Lessons from Thailand** In a world where politics is often a high-stakes game, not everyone has the means to participate. For those who dare to challenge the status quo, the journey can be daunting. A former member of parliament from Thailand shares a harrowing tale of navigating the country's powerful patronage system, where those in power wield immense influence over those who aspire to join their ranks. In a country like Nigeria, where politics is often a matter of who you know, this story is eerily familiar. The struggle to access the corridors of power is real, and those who refuse to play by the rules often face the consequences. The patronage system in Thailand, where loyalty and favors are traded for influence, may seem far-fetched, but the dynamics are not dissimilar from those in our own backyard. The former MP recounts an incident where she was invited to a women empowerment event, but was asked to pay a hefty 25,000 baht (approximately N5 million Naira) to participate. When she declined, citing financial constraints, she was met with disdain and exclusion. This is a stark reminder that in Nigeria, those who cannot afford to grease the wheels of power may be left behind. In Nigeria, we have our own version of this patronage system, where those who have access to power use it to accumulate wealth and influence. The ruling elite often use their positions to accumulate wealth, and those who dare to challenge this status quo are often silenced. The story of the former MP is a cautionary tale of the dangers of challenging the system, where speaking truth to power can be a luxury few can afford. The implications are far-reaching. In a country where politics is often a matter of who you know, the playing field is skewed in favor of those who have the means to participate. This can lead to a lack of accountability, as those in power are often more interested in maintaining their grip on power than serving the people. The story of the former MP is a wake-up call for Nigerians to demand change and to hold those in power accountable for their actions. In conclusion, the story of the former MP from Thailand serves as a reminder of the challenges of changing the status quo in Nigeria's politics. The patronage system may be different in Thailand, but the dynamics are the same. We must demand a more inclusive and accountable system, where those who aspire to lead have the means to participate without