Habeeb Lanlehin
Democracy transcends representative government or the right of individuals to vote and be voted for; to have an effective democracy, it requires accountability, responsibility, transparency and humility of people holding leadership positions. Humility is a strength that allows leaders to listen to others, learn from their mistakes and develop empathy and emotional intelligence as opposed to ego, a flaw which aggravates an inflated feeling of self-importance, where leaders prioritise their perspectives and feel beyond reproach.
As the association’s campaign unfolds and elections are around the corner, it has become apparent that some candidates are more concerned with shielding their ego than with being held accountable to NAPSSites or serving the public interest. The recent display of rudeness by NAPSS presidential aspirant, Mr Adebare Adeoti Mubarak during a scheduled interview session to communicate his goal, aim and intentions to NAPSSites and during the press night is another important reminder of the importance of a free press to hold leaders accountable especially leaders who exude a high level of hostility to being held accountable. Also crucial is the sacred duty that the press continues to scrutinize and critique those vying for public office, not only to ensure they are fit for the job but also to gauge their ability to handle reproach, questioning, and criticism- all essential qualities for anyone seeking to occupy a leadership role. By doing so, the press can help voters make informed decisions, and promote a culture of transparency and accountability in governance.
The ability to provide detailed answers to questions without feeling interrogated and handle criticism is an important aspect of leadership, as it demonstrates a willingness to listen, learn, and adapt. When leaders become defensive, dismissive or confrontative in the face of criticism, it points to a character flaw- a “hubris of superiority” and it can have serious consequences.
For instance, the case of former US President, Richard Nixon’s handling of the Watergate scandal is a prime example. Nixon’s refusal to acknowledge criticism and his attempts to silence the press ultimately led to his resignation. In contrast, leaders who demonstrate a willingness to listen to criticism and adapt to changing circumstances are more likely to succeed. Nelson Mandela’s leadership during South Africa’s transition to democracy is a notable example. Mandela’s ability to listen to opposing views and adapt to changing circumstances helped to facilitate a peaceful transition and earned him widespread respect.
By asking tough questions, and carefully examining a leader’s policies and actions, the press plays the important role of providing a more accurate picture of an aspirant’s fitness for office. But in a surprising twist to the event, NAPSS presidential candidate, Mr Adebare Adeoti Mubarak believes he is beyond reproach, reacts offensively to scrutinisation and after the efforts by pressmen to vet his manifesto at the press night took to his status to post the first part of a proverb “A n Juwon kosewi lejo”. The second part of the proverb states “ija ilara o tan boro”. A proverb which can be translated to mean ”We are patiently waiting for the outcome. Maybe it’s you or me or you, we shall see who is superior” Another translation points to the proverb meaning “Your opinion of me is none of my business” and many other interpretations. Such derogatory remarks from an aspirant in response to being scrutinised point to one of the fundamental problems Nigeria suffers from- the misguided belief held by a majority of Nigeria’s ruling class on accountability to the people and their belief of being above being scrutinised, corrected or advised.
Running unopposed, Mr. Adebare Adeoti Mubarak has a very high chance of winning the elections, however, as we move forward we must take a more conscious approach in selecting our leaders. Are we choosing leaders who embody the values of humility, accountability and transparency, or would we succumb to the pitfalls of egoistic leaders who are confrontative to the simple democratic process of scrutinisation and criticism?
The press will continue her duties as the fourth estate of the realm and hold leaders accountable to the electorates, scrutinise and criticise constructively when the situation calls for it and pass information to every nook and cranny where the information needs to get to. Notwithstanding derogatory comments or hostility from any individual, POSSPRESS will keep promoting consciousness via our pen!
