What young political leaders should do

All the branches in a tree come from the same trunk is a saying that should remind us that we are all connected, one way or another. Every individual, regardless of their role, draws from the same foundational principles and goals of the system they operate. So, those appointed to work in a political administration are expected to be guided by the constitution, political goals, and societal values—upbringing and culture.  

On the contrary, some of these branches see themselves as independent trees, failing to acknowledge that they are integral parts of a larger entity. They lose sight of the collective vision and values that should guide their actions, instead of becoming absorbed in their ambitions.  

This misperception is particularly common in Nigerian politics. The zeal and ambition of new political leaders overwhelm them to overlook the fact that their strength and legitimacy stem from the very institutions and democratic frameworks that they are a part of.  

The danger lies in the seductive illusion of autonomy and the belief that they can exist, and even flourish, outside of the political ecosystem that elevated them. Yet, this is a fallacy that history has repeatedly debunked. Those who forget that they are but branches of a larger tree often find themselves isolated when the winds of political fortune shift. 

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There is a notion that money can fix everything in Nigerian politics; it is a means to an end. It is why those in government hurry to amass so much wealth at all costs and simultaneously use the power at their disposal to fight their opponents. If financial safety is the attraction, as late Kissinger would say, then power is the ultimate aphrodisiac. In many cases, abuse of power is seen as the norm for new political leaders in the country. The power attached to the political offices is the chain that has imprisoned many promising careers, convincing the aspirant that they are immune to the moral dilemmas and ethical pitfalls that accompany such pursuits.  

This is why I call on the young group, those in their 30’s and 40’s, who are ascending the political ladder in Nigeria. They must remain vigilant, for with every step they climb, the stakes become higher and the scrutiny more intense. They must refrain from copying the bad behaviour of bad leaders. As the Hausa saying goes: in ka ga tsohon banza, da ma can yaron banza ne. 

It is a path filled with temptations, where the pursuit of financial security through political means can often lead to a compromise of the very principles that propelled them into public service. As power magnifies their influence, it also amplifies their vulnerabilities, exposing them to the harsh light of public scrutiny and the ever-present menace of corruption in the country. 

In Nigeria, as in many parts of the world, suffering is a relative term. I say less suffering because suffering in Nigeria is widespread. For young political leaders who experience less suffering than others, there is a risk of developing a sense of superiority. It is essential to maintain humility and empathy, recognising that privilege is not indicative of worth but of circumstance.  

As a young leader, you must remember that your role is to serve, to lessen the suffering of your constituents, and to use your position to create a more equitable society. Your lesser suffering should be viewed not as a position from which to look down upon others but as a platform from which to lift others. It is by this metric that your leadership will be judged and your legacy defined. Remember that political power comes with a responsibility to uphold the values of their office and to act in service of the greater good.  

Similarly, political offices are temporary, and many staffers are only employed as long as they are necessary. These political offices can limit your ability to express moral and political beliefs freely, often relegating you to a spokesperson for higher authorities, irrespective of the truth. This not only limits your expression but also has the potential to address significant societal issues. This loss of freedom to speak out on pivotal societal issues can be mentally and emotionally taxing.  

The adage “You meet the same people on your way down as you did on your way up” is particularly relevant in Nigerian politics, even though some feel they will never come down. The individuals you met during the climb of your political career are often met again during your inevitable decline. The repercussions of choices made for short-term benefits will be regretted long after leaving office, affecting reintegration into society and your well-being.  

So, the warning for young leaders is clear: remember the trunk from which you spring and know that the health of the entire tree—every branch, leaf, and root—depends on the integrity with which you serve. Embrace your role as part of a greater entity, refrain from copying bad behaviour, resist the intoxicating pull of power and wealth, and never lose sight of the humanity that you are sworn to serve. In doing so, you will not only grow strong and resilient, but you will ensure that the tree of governance under which you serve provides shelter and sustenance for all who seek its aid.