SURE P EXPERIENCE

Political patronage plays a significant role in the implementation of public policies in Nigeria, often shaping the effectiveness and sustainability of such programs. This study examines the impact of political patronage on the implementation of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) in Benin City. The study explores how political interference affects policy execution, resource allocation, and beneficiaryselection, while also assessing the long-term consequences of patronage on policy sustainability. A survey research design was adopted, with data collected from 236 respondents using structured questionnaires. The findings reveal that political patronage has led to inefficiencies, favoritism, and misallocation of resources, undermining the original objectives of SURE-P. Moreover, the study highlights public concerns over political interference in beneficiary selection, which has limited the program’s developmental impact. The research recommends institutional reforms, enhanced transparency, and stronger anti-corruption measures to ensure effective and equitable policy implementation. These findings contribute to the discourse on governance and public policy in Nigeria.