Is It A Case Of Leadership Or Followership Problem in Nigeria? A Highlighted by the APGA National Chairman, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa – Written by Nduka Anyanwu, SA- Media to The APGA National Chairman.
Nigeria’s struggles with development and progress have sparked intense debate about the root causes of the country’s challenges. As the National Chairman of APGA, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa ponders the challenges facing our beloved Nigeria, he is reminded of the age-old question: is our problem primarily one of leadership or followership?
While our leaders have been criticized for lacking accountability and transparency, He still believe we must also examine our role as followers. Have we become complicit in corrupt systems? Are we actively engaged in the political process, demanding better governance?
To break this cycle, we need a multifaceted approach that promotes values-driven leadership, active citizenship, and institutional reforms.
Let’s work together to build a more just, equitable, and prosperous society he opined and to address this, we must delve into the complexities of both concepts and
their interplay in the Nigerian context.
Leadership: A Crisis of Values and Accountability
Leadership in Nigeria has often been criticized for its lack of accountability, transparency, and values-driven decision-making. The country’s leaders have been accused of prioritizing personal interests over the welfare of citizens, perpetuating a culture of corruption and impunity. This has led to widespread disillusionment and erosion of trust in institutions.
Followership: A Crisis of Complicity and Apathy
However, followership in Nigeria is also culpable in perpetuating the status quo. Many citizens have become complicit in the corrupt systems, either by actively participating in or turning a blind eye to corrupt practices. Apathy and disengagement from the political process have also contributed to the lack of accountability and poor governance.
The Interplay Between Leadership and Followership
It is essential to recognize that leadership and followership are intertwined concepts. Leaders influence and shape the values and behaviors of their followers, while followers can also hold leaders accountable and demand better governance. In Nigeria, the relationship between leaders and followers has been characterized by a lack of mutual accountability and trust.
Breaking the Cycle: A Call to Action
To address Nigeria’s development challenges, it is crucial to tackle both leadership and followership problems simultaneously. This requires a multifaceted approach that includes:
1. Values-driven leadership: Leaders must prioritize transparency, accountability, and values-driven decision-making.
2. Active citizenship: Followers must engage actively in the political
process, demand accountability, and hold leaders responsible for their actions.
3. Institutional reforms: Strengthening institutions and promoting the rule of law can help to address corruption and impunity.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s development depends on the collective efforts of both leaders and followers. By recognizing the interplay between leadership and followership and working together to address these challenges, Nigerians can build a more just, equitable, and prosperous society.
