One thing I have observed in Nigeria’s political process is that the most important quality in any political candidate is a sincere commitment to serve the people honestly and to the best of their ability. Governing is never easy, and there are countless variables and challenges for which no one can be fully prepared. However, integrity, humility, and a genuine desire to serve remain the strongest indicators of good leadership.
On the other hand, candidates who carry an entitled attitude or the typical “African big man” mentality should be avoided at all costs, no matter how well they package themselves. Once in office, they rarely live up to the image they carefully project during campaigns.
Perhaps the greatest danger is when an ego-driven politician convinces people that they are the symbol or defender of a particular ethnic or religious group. Once the conversation shifts from competence and character to ethnicity or religion, attention is diverted from the obvious red flags in that individual’s personality. Voters are encouraged to focus instead on the supposed superiority or interests of their own group.
When politicians succeed in doing this, they manipulate people into supporting them for reasons unrelated to their ability to govern. After the election, however, it is not your ethnic or religious group that occupies the office—it is the individual you voted for. Ultimately, it is that person’s character, judgment, and commitment to public service that determine whether your welfare is improved or neglected.
Published by Chuks Nwachuku
