Our great nation has travelled through tumultuous waters; we have navigated through military coups, transitioned from military leadership to civilian rule, and shifted from a parliamentary system of government to a presidential one.
The transitions have undoubtedly left its mark on the progress and setback experienced by this nation. When we reflect upon this journey and its paths with other factors within, it becomes increasingly evident that Nigerians are actually committed and optimistic in representational and functional democracy.
Since we started 4th Republic in 1999, which is Nigeria’s longest journey and stretch in democratic governance, we have committed ourselves to choosing our leaders through elections, – and we’ve painstakingly sustained this against all odds. Twenty-four years, and six different national polls. This has yielded results, acceptability and even resistance, – yet, we remain in pursuit of our dreams and aspirations within the available democratic provisions.
That is a worthy feat if you ask me, it is a lot. There are only a few similar examples we can point at in global space that we shared similar history of colonialism and emerging civilisations with.
Amidst all these, what is important for us to note?
Since our foundational principles, experiments and researches have proven, and more rooted in believe and sound convictions that the major keys to our actual prosperity and democratic dividend depends on democracy and governance that reaches the least of the people.
Leadership at all levels, from the highest echelon of power to the smallest local government, has a profound impact on our collective destiny. It all count. The services we provide to ourselves in our various neighbourhood, those community meetings, emergency gathering we convey to address problems, those commitments, extra efforts to ensure a local bridge is built, or that we clear the drainage obstructing the flow of water, and other sacrifices are where the true essence of leadership is both tested and found.
But the question that looms large is, what kind of leadership have we experienced on the broader scale, and what can we aspire to?
Throughout our history, we have seen leaders who dedicated themselves to the serving people and to the greater good, without minding status or class. Without mincing words, we have good example of them, in Oyo state and in other places. These persons understood that public office was a solemn trust, a pact with the people to uplift their lives and safeguard their rights. In the face of adversity, they stood firm and held their grip, and strove to advance the common good. It worth it eventually. And we have those who does otherwise. These individuals didn’t do much for the people they elect to serve. This often cast a dark shadow over our aspirations for a prosperous and just society.
I particularly think the concept of service and ethical leadership should be the cornerstone of governance at all sectors. True leaders understand that they are servants of the people, bound by a duty to improve the lives of their constituents. Ethical leadership demands transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the rule of law. No questions asked. It is the embodiment of integrity and a dedication to the group greater good. We can provide essential services to promote economic development and foster social cohesion and peace. We can do a lot.
We must emphasise education and capacity building for the young people, we can empower them with the skills and knowledge needed to make informed decisions and manage resources responsibly. We can provide more support for the old. More also, we can strengthen the mechanism for accountability to ensure that leaders are held to high ethical standards. I have seen this work, it definitely can in our great country.
Leadership at all levels plays a significant role in shaping the destiny of our nation. Individuals occupying the seat must be reminded why they were there in the first instance. To chart a course toward a more brighter tomorrow, I think we must prioritise ethical leadership and service to the people. It is the least the people demands, I have no doubt.
In scribbling these thoughts, I do not masquerade as a paragon of virtue or a sage of impeccable wisdom. My aim is not to pontificate from a pedestal, but to provoke thought, spark dialogue, and inspire collective action. Good governance is a multifaceted entity from diverse perspectives, and my contribution is merely a thread.
Whatever we might say is wrong with the system is our collective fault, but I hope that, together, we can stitch a more vibrant, inclusive, and just narrative for our communities. I believe we can embrace the imperfections, learn from them, and strive for a leadership that truly serves.
See you next Friday on another episode, but before then, what do you think?
~ Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, August 30, 2024
