Beyond the Cruelty of Nigerian Politicians: A Call to Youths and a New Leadership Model
Historically, Nigerian politics has been marked by corruption and disregard for the people. During the oil boom of the 1970s, billions of dollars in revenues were mismanaged, leading to what Achebe (1983) described as the “tragedy of leadership” in The Trouble with Nigeria. The return to democracy in 1999 was expected to usher in change, but over two decades later, the narrative of mismanagement and poor governance continues (Suberu, 2001). Politicians often live in opulence, traveling abroad for medical care, sending their children to foreign schools, and flaunting wealth, while ordinary Nigerians contend with unemployment, failing hospitals, insecurity, and poor infrastructure. This disconnect creates the cruel illusion that Nigeria is not a blessed nation, when in reality, it is leadership that has failed.
Against this backdrop, one must commend individuals like Hon. Babajimi Benson, who has consistently changed the narrative of cruelty in Nigerian politics. As the representative of Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Benson has demonstrated that politics can indeed be people-centered. Through initiatives in youth empowerment, infrastructural development, and education, he has taken governance closer to the people. His model shows that leaders can be innovative, selfless, and forward-thinking, ensuring that democracy delivers its dividends to the grassroots. Unlike many of his contemporaries who hoard opportunities, Benson has ensured that his mentees, especially youths, are empowered to take charge of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across Ikorodu Division.
This is the path worthy of emulation. The cruelty of most Nigerian politicians should serve as a warning to the newly elected chairmen and other political mentees of Babajimi Benson. They must not fall into the trap of the status quo where leaders enrich themselves at the expense of their people. Instead, they should toil his path of integrity and service, ensuring that their communities speak well of them. Delivering better governance will not only honor their constituents but also make their mentor proud, proving that Nigerian politics can indeed be redeemed.
For Nigerian youths, the message is clear. Do not allow the cruelty of failed leaders to define your destiny. Rather, believe in your capacity to innovate, create, and build a prosperous future. The resilience of Nigerian youths is evident in technology, entertainment, and entrepreneurship, sectors where global recognition has been earned despite systemic neglect. The charge, therefore, is to be good ambassadors, support one another, and rise above the failures of yesterday’s leaders.
In conclusion, while cruelty remains the hallmark of many Nigerian politicians, the likes of Babajimi Benson prove that a new path is possible. If more leaders and their protégés embrace such models, Nigeria will move closer to fulfilling its potential. Until then, the youth must remain steadfast, innovative, and united in building a nation where prosperity is shared, and leadership is synonymous with service.
