In Nigeria we have witnessed different styles of Leadership. We have had a military leaders who listened, Ibrahim Babangida, also known as Maradona for his skillful maneuvers. Others have led as if the population was non existent ( Sani Abacha). There have been democratic President considered too weak to rule (Shehu Shagari), and one that micromanaged decision making and led with an iron fist (Obasanjo). One even had the opportunity to rule as a military man and then returned as an elected head. We had one that was non elected civilian head (Ernest Shonekan). We have had a Vice President who marched the country forward as if in a military drill (Idiagbon) and others that have allowed the citizenry to act as they pleased. We have had it all. A time when the press requested approval for stories and now where the press is ‘free’, oops. Nigeria’s eventful past has provided us an opportunity to experience the leadership styles that work and those that bum.
A few years ago, when Nigeria’s latest attempt at democratic rule was at its infancy, older Nigerians would comment that a country like Nigeria can only be led by a ’strong’ leader. That was back then when Nigerians were warming to the possibilities of democratic rule. Our path to self rule had been torturous. However given the benefit of hind sight, I wonder if there are still many out there that feel, a successful Nigerian president is required to have a certain level of brute in them. Democracy has been a blessing to Nigeria, but I ask about the forcefulness required to rule Nigeria. Now that we have had the unique opportunity of trying out a democratic president that was arguably too forceful, and we presently have President Yaradua who is a hands off type of President, at least up till now. There have been some complaints in some quarters that our President is a bit soft and indecisive. He appears to be tightening up.
Does it takes a tough leader who maintains a tight rein on power and possibly one that micromanages the details of running a successful Nigeria? Is president Yaradua’s actions moving us in the right direction? If it takes a softer stick and the development of the judicial infrastructure for the system to work by itself then President Yaradua’s actions may deserve a second look.
Note: I wrote this a few days ago and before I could click on the publish button, Mr President has shut down a News TV station.
Does Nigeria need a ruler with a big stick or would our nascent democracy be better served by a more hand- off president? What say you?
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Tags: Africa, Ibrahim Babangida, nigeria, Sani Abacha, Shehu Shagari, Umaru Yar'Adua
