In a thought-provoking column, Lekan Sote of The Punch newspaper used the metaphor of a tenant to caution Nigeria's political elite about the transient nature of their power. He noted that their stay in high political office is temporary and will eventually come to an end. This reality should serve as a reminder to act with humility and responsibility while in power. Sote's article was published on September 23, 2026.
The columnist drew inspiration from the works of British economist John Maynard Keynes, who famously said that "in the long run, we are all dead." This morbid but obvious conclusion serves as a reminder to politicians that their time in office is limited. Sote also referenced a historical anecdote involving Ukpabi Asika, the Administrator of war-torn East Central State, and Nigeria's first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. Asika described Azikiwe as a "has-been" when the latter was out of power.
The exchange between Asika and Azikiwe serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of power. Azikiwe retorted that Asika's own father was an ex-postmaster and that one day, Asika would become an ex-administrator. This prediction proved true, as Asika eventually left office and disappeared from public life. His passing in 2004 went largely unnoticed by the Nigerian public. This episode highlights the impermanence of power and influence.
Sote's article also touched on the phenomenon of Nigerian politicians clinging to power and seeking to extend their influence beyond their tenures. Some governors, for instance, strive to become senators or ministers after leaving office. Even former military heads of state have re-emerged as civilian presidents. The provision for regular elections serves as a reminder that there is always a terminal day for a politician's stay in power.
The columnist cited historical examples to drive home his point. Oliver Cromwell, who was styled Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, eventually died and could not protect himself. His body was exhumed, hanged, and beheaded in a posthumous execution. This episode serves as a reminder that even the most powerful individuals are not immune to the forces of mortality and impermanence.
In contrast, some politicians have left a lasting legacy and are remembered fondly by their people. Obafemi Awolowo, the first Premier of Western Nigeria, is revered for his patriotic services, including introducing free, universal, and compulsory primary education. His achievements and sparkling performance in government have earned him a permanent place in the hearts and minds of the Yoruba people.
Ultimately, Sote's article serves as a reminder to Nigeria's political elite that their power and influence are transient. They should act with humility, responsibility, and integrity while in office, rather than seeking to exploit their positions for personal gain. By doing so, they can leave a lasting legacy and earn the respect and admiration of their people.
Key points
- The transient nature of power should serve as a reminder to Nigeria's political elite to act with humility and responsibility while in office.
- The impermanence of power and influence is a universal phenomenon that applies to all individuals, regardless of their position or status.
- Politicians who act with integrity and humility while in office are more likely to leave a lasting legacy and earn the respect of their people.
