“The personality of the individual is as perishable as the person; only the principles which he represents are immortal,” stated the American philosopher Felix Adler. Mahatma Gandhi famously warned that “politics without principle” is one of the seven social sins. These profound observations underscore the inherent danger of tethering a nation’s destiny to the fleeting shadows of individuals rather than the solid ground of ethical foundations. Today, let’s reflect on the corrosive nature of hero-worship in governance and the urgent necessity of elevating systemic integrity over personal loyalty.
Do you know that the Nigerian political landscape is remarkably unpredictable because the primary players often operate without a standard rulebook, acting instead according to the shifting whims and caprices of those they seek to appease? This culture of sycophancy ensures that the “stand” of most public figures remains as fluid as the changing moods of whoever currently holds the keys to their parochial desires. When a society is built solely on the discretionary power of an officeholder rather than a shared moral compass, it becomes nearly impossible to foster long-term stability or public trust. Laws in such an environment are frequently crafted, interpreted, and enforced not for the common good, but to satisfy the ego or interests of a benefactor. This reliance on the “strongman” rather than strong institutions creates a fragile foundation, essentially pre-programming the society for future failure as legacies become tied to temporary favours rather than enduring justice.
So, enhance your capacity to discern between the allure of a political figure that demands obeisance and the quiet, steady strength of institutional principles that can survive the transition of power. It is time for the Nigerian identity to be anchored in a framework that guides, detects, and directs the actions of every citizen and leader, regardless of who occupies the seat of authority. Political actors must begin to value their personal integrity above the immediate gratification of political patronage, ensuring that their decisions are motivated by a sense of duty to the state rather than a desire to please a patron. By prioritizing the “what” over the “who,” we can begin to build a culture where actions have a predictable basis and governance is no longer a game of chance. Demand a system where rules are applied consistently to the high and low alike, transforming the political arena from a theatre of personality cults into a laboratory for principled progress and genuine national development.
As you step out each day, remember that a society’s true strength is measured not by the might of its leaders, but by the resilience of its values. Commit yourself to being a champion of rules and ethics, refusing to compromise your convictions for the sake of temporary advantage or the approval of the powerful. By choosing to honour principles over people, you contribute to a legacy of stability that will outlive the names and faces of those currently in power.
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Esang Esitikot is a professor of occupational health and safety, a registered chemical engineer, public affairs analyst, UN Ambassador for Peace, certified management consultant, World Safety Organization Ambassador, Environmental Ambassador, and volunteer lecturer at the Institute of Health, Safety, Security and Environment, University of Uyo. He is a manager in the oil and gas industry and was recognized by Highstone Global University, USA as the occupational health and safety personality of 2024. He can be contacted via 08035103559 (Whatsapp only) or email (esitikot@gmail.com).
