There Was A Leader

 

By Op_Ed

Heavy lies the head, that wears the crown. The role of leadership is very dicey, it has its pecks and challenge. Being a first child I must say I have had my fair share of both pecks and challenge.

There was this very day, we had visitors who came to see my dad. But he wasn’t back from work. So they had to wait for him. After welcoming them and offering them seats. I went back into the room to continue work on my system. After a while, I told my brother to go keep them company. He’s more of a people person than myself.

But he blatantly refused, telling me, after all, I’m the first child so it’s my job to take over leadership when our parents are not available. So I decided to invoke the power of the first child, but he was prepared. He decided to pull off the old Esau and Jacob trick. I smiled knowing that was the checkmate. The game, set, match. You’ve won.

The job of a leader looks attractive but it comes with its responsibilities that you must rise to. For me, it was having a conversation I was not interested in. But had to participate actively.

While for someone else, its to be empathetic to the demands of the citizenry. 20th October 2020. Is a day that would easily find it’s way into the history books of our nation Nigeria. A day peacefully protesting young Nigerians demonstrating their Democratic rights, calling for an end to police brutality. Were shot at, injured and killed by members of the Nigerian Army. I can go on talking about how backward this day has set us as a nation, but that is not the main focus of this write-up.

Barely a week after the lekki massacre; which saw a peaceful call for an end police brutality. It is sad to see the charity foundation of the National leader of the all progressive Congress. Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Take up a full-page slot on several national dailies to commend himself on his “Outstanding” leadership. It is repulsive to see such a notable political figure take up such petty actions just a few days after what will be remembered as one of the darkest days in this country’s history. This supposedly congratulatory advert went on to stroke his fragile ego while undermining the pains and sufferings of the young protesters. After reading the numerous advertorials published by his charity group, I was left with one question; how can you call yourself a leader? Because from my standpoint, seeing through this facade, the cap doesn’t fit.

A leader is empathetic
A leader is thoughtful
A leader is selfless.

My dear, Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
YOU DO NOT POSSESS THESE QUALITIES.