In the words of John C. Maxwell, "a leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way". This statement alludes to the fact that a leader can be ascribed to the role of a driver in whom the safety, and progress (growth and development) of the passengers (citizens and the nation) are determined. In light of this, "good leaders have a vision, share vision, and inspire others to create their own" —Roy Bennett. For "where there is no vision, the people perish" —Proverbs 29:18.
Nigeria has experienced a series of bad leadership which has become a cankerworm eating up the fabrics of the Nigerian economy, education, and politics, to mention but few. It has also stood as a deep-rooted thorn silently stunting the growth of citizens even during colonialism and after independence. Therefore, it is pertinent that before anyone assumes any political office in Nigeria, such fellow ought to have been properly scrutinized and found worthy in character and deed.
Nigeria gained political independence in 1960 and most countries that got independence within this period have advanced technologically and are developed due to good leadership. On the other hand, bad governance has taken Nigeria backwards despite attempts at progress. For example, Nigeria was the first nation in Africa to have a Television Station, yet, has not been able to digitize her transmission after over 60 years of such achievement. This can only be a result of bad governance.
To have responsible leadership in Nigeria, the following must be put in place;
AN IMPARTIAL ELECTORAL PROCESS/ELECTION: All qualified citizens must be willing and be allowed to cast their votes for candidates of their choice during the election without fear or intimidation. When there is an impartial electoral process/election, the citizens will have the confidence to their cast their votes and look forward to seeing their prospect emerge as the winner. Moses T. A. (2016) puts forward: "The conduct of elections in Nigeria since 1999 has been inundated with sparkling malpractices in the electioneering process"
ACCOUNTABILITY OF THE OFFICE/POWER-HOLDER: In a democratic system of government, the continuity of a political leader in the office is determined by how well s/he performs in her/his respective offices. However, the constitution of Nigeria has made a mess of democracy by the provision of Section 6(6)(c) which is popularly known as the non-justiciability clause. By this provision, no one can hold the government accountable for its failure in upholding the laudable provisions of Chapter II of the constitution. To secure a responsible leadership that would be accountable, this section of the constitution has to be amended.
ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN ELECTION BY THE CITIZEN: Reminiscing on the incident of June 12th, 1993 (M. K. O Abiola) election and many other recurring spiralling malpractices in the electioneering processes in Nigeria, has negatively affected the mindset and zeal of some Nigerian citizens towards Nigeria politics. Hence, there is a loss of trust and confidence in Nigerian leaders. Whereas, citizens ought to stand firm and exercise their franchise as it is one of the tools to vote out irresponsible leaders and curb electoral malpractices in Nigeria.
In conclusion, what a thorn is to the flesh, irresponsible leadership is to the growth and development of Nigeria and its citizens. It is, therefore, high time we embarked on a quest for 'responsible leadership' before social vices and corruption become an ‘unstitchable’ opening in the flesh of our country; and to overcome this menace, the above points have to be implemented. Moreso, there should be constant advocacy for the provision of Section 23 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which stipulates, “The national ethics shall be Discipline, Integrity, Dignity of Labour, Social Justice, Religious Tolerance, Self-reliance and Patriotism”. Proper inculcation of these in citizens, as well as those vying for political posts, would make responsible leadership a norm in Nigeria.
Udom, Anthony Patrick from Tasued
Second Runner up of NASELS Southwest Essay Competition
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