One thing I have observed in Nigeria’s political process is that the most important quality to look for in any political candidate is a sincere commitment to serve the people honestly and to the best of their ability. Governance is filled with countless variables and challenges that no one can fully prepare for, making integrity, humility, and genuine dedication far more valuable than grand promises or political theatrics.
On the other hand, candidates who carry an entitled attitude or the typical “African big man” mentality should be avoided at all costs, regardless of how well they package themselves. Once in office, they rarely live up to the image they project, and the people are often left disappointed.
The greatest danger is when an ego-driven politician convinces citizens that they are the symbol or defender of their ethnic or religious group. Once the conversation is shifted from competence and character to ethnicity or religion, attention is diverted from the obvious warning signs about that individual. Instead of scrutinizing the candidate, people become preoccupied with proving that their ethnic or religious group is superior or deserves political dominance.
When such politicians succeed in manipulating public sentiment and are voted into power, reality soon sets in. It is not your ethnic or religious group that governs you—it is the individual you elected. Your welfare, security, and prosperity depend on that person’s character, judgment, and commitment to public service, not on the identity they used to secure your support.
Ultimately, Nigeria will make greater progress when citizens judge leaders by their integrity, competence, and willingness to serve, rather than by ethnic, religious, or personality-based loyalties.
Published by Chuks Nwachuku
