Nigeria, Feb. 2 -- Power in Nigeria is intoxicating. It flatters, insulates and deceives its holders into believing it is permanent. But history keeps proving otherwise.

Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN) once stood at the very centre of power. As Attorney-General and Minister of Justice under President Goodluck Jonathan, he served for five years as one of the most influential figures in government. The president hardly takes any decisions without first consulting him. While other ministers could only access the president during Federal Executive Council (FEC) meetings, Adoke enjoyed unrestricted access - even private dinners. Former Senate President David Mark famously described him as "all powerful Attorney-General".

Yet less than two years ...