By Mike Ozekhome
INTRODUCTION
Power is as old as the creation of the world. The first expression of power was by God – when he created the Heavens and the Earth. [Genesis Chapter 1 v. 1 – 2]. The Qur’an states that ‘Allah created the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them.’ [7:54].
God proceeded to create man in His own image and likenesswhen he said, ‘Let us create man in our image, to our likeness. Let them rule over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, over the cattle, over the wild animals, and over all creeping things that crawl along the ground.’ [Genesis 1 v. 27]. This means that man looks like God, and posses the attributes of God – with absolute dominion [power] over all things created by God. Psalm 82: puts it poignantly: “I said, you are “gods”; you are all sons of the MOST HIGH”.
In the labyrinthine corridors of political power, a captivating dance of death unfolds- where the mighty ascend to the throne with grandeaur of illusion and grand promises, only to find themselves ensnared in the labyrinth of their own making. Such is the mesmerizing tale of power and its ephemeral grip on those who wield it. In the Nigerian political landscape, this narrative has played out time and again, as public office holders have succumbed to the allure of authority, often leading to the abuse, misuse and disuse of power.
The ephemeral nature of power, as highlighted in religious texts such as the Holy Bible and the Holy Quran, emphasizes the transient and fleeting nature of human existence and the potential pitfalls of wielding power arbitrarily and unconscionably, without humility, righteousness and due regard to those at the receiving end.
In James 4:14 of the Bible, it is expressed that humans do not have control over what will happen in the future. Life is compared to a vapor that appears for a short time and then vanishes away. This metaphor conveys the brevity and fragility of human life, suggesting that power, like life itself, is temporary and can dissipate rapidly. Similarly, the Quran, in verse 28:76, narrates the story of Qarun, a person of power during the time of Moses. Qarun abused his authority and tyrannized his people. He was granted immense wealth and treasures, symbolized by the heavy. The supremacy of divine power surpasses the transience of mortal power. God stands as the ultimate force to be acknowledged, while humanity’s existence is temporary. As they say, “Soldier come, Soldier go, Barracks remain”.
The Legendary musical icon, Prince, once said passively that, “But life is just a party, and parties weren’t meant to last.”
The historical chinese politician and poet, Li Shang-yin, also told us that, “And a moment that ought to have lasted for ever has come and gone before I knew.”
The much celebrated Indian author, Krishna Udayasankar, also echoed this, “No empire lasts forever, no dynasty continues unbroken. Some day, you and I will be mere legends. All that matters is whether we did what we could with the life that was given to us.”
I once a read mesmerizing poem that is engraved in my every thought of action, a peom by the highly celebrated English poet, Percy Shelly– “Ozymandias”. This was the first foremost metaphor for the ephemeral nature of power. It was written in a parlance – depicting a traveler telling the speaker a story about two vast legs of stone standing without a body, and near them – a massive – crumbling stonehead lies ‘half sunk’ in the sand. The words on the statute read thus, “my name is Ozymandias, king of kings: Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair! But today, the statute is broken and even decayed, where is the self – acclaimed king?”.
With this observation, a compelling pattern emerges—a thought-provoking notion that everything, as if orchestrated by the hands of time, may eventually and inexorably reach its transient conclusion.
The terrific Nebuchadnezzer, King of Babylonian, reigned for so many years. After his great fall, and having come to true repentance, he acknowledged the unlimited and unending power and greatness of God, thus: ‘The matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the Most High ruleth in the Kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever HE will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.’ [Daniel 4 – 1].
What is power?. an American writer – Robert Green, popular for writing international books on human nature – power related, was asked the meaning of power, and this was his response: “Power is the measure of the degree of control you have over circumstances in your life and the actions of the people around you. It is a skill that is developed by a deep understanding of human nature, of what truly motivates people, and of the manipulations necessary for advancement and protection”.
Returning to the nucleus of our banter, let us embark on an expedition through the intriguing Nigerian terrain, shedding more light on the fleeting nature of dominion bestowed upon the fortunate wielders of power.
Picture this: Nigeria, a land of vast potential and immense diversity, where power dynamics dance like fickle flames in the wind. It’s a place where politicians rise to prominence like shooting stars, captivating the nation with promises of change, progress, and prosperity. But alas, as the old saying goes, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” In this case, it also evaporates like water in the Sahara. In 1655, King Loius xiv of France stood in front of Parliament and imperiously declared “L’etat C’est Moi” (meaning, I am the State”. This was to emphasis his complete hold on power to the exclusion of all other lesser mortals.
Oh, how we have witnessed the Nigerian political stage transform into a theatre of comedy, tragedy and absurd, where the script is written by fate itself. We have seen leaders sprinting towards power, fueled by sheer ambition and infatuation rhetoric, only to stumble and fall on banana peels of their own making. It is as if there is a cosmic prankster, delighting in the ironic twists and turns of political fortune.
An era of authoritarian rule or dictatorship no longer guarantees a leader’s long-term hold on power. While it may prolong their reign, as seen in the cases of Marcos, Khaddafi, Saddam Hussein, or Haile Selassie, it is inevitably bound to reach its end, sometimes through violent means, as witnessed in the fate of certain long-standing Heads of state. Furthermore, the limitations of human lifespan must be taken into account. An individual’s productive years typically fall within the 40 to 50-year range, following a normal distribution pattern known as the “Poisson” distribution. This implies that their most fruitful years span from ages 25 to 75, with the peak occurring between 35 and 65. Considering these factors, the window of power becomes remarkably narrow and encroaches upon the more enjoyable stages of life. Observing some politicians’ maneuvers to cling onto power forever, one might wonder if they harbor the belief of immortality.
Nothing lasts forever, even this life is vanity upon vanity. [Ecclesiastes 1:2 – 8 KJV]. William Shakespeare, in Macbeth from “The Tragedy of Macbeth”: “Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more: it is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.” (Act V, Scene V).
But let us not forget the seriousness of this topic. Beneath the surface of my foregoing satire lies a profound examination of the fleeting nature of power. In a country brimming with potentials, how do we navigate the tumultuous waters of leadership? How do we separate the genuine statesmen from the temporary showmen? And what does it mean for a nation when power slips through the hands of those entrusted with its stewardship?
However, the intoxicating potion of power can be a double-edged sword, corrupting even the noblest of intentions. The abuse of power becomes an inevitable consequence when public office holders who succumb to their baser instincts, using their positions for personal gain, and turning a blind eye to the needs and aspirations of the people they are meant to serve. But in all of this, what is easily forgotten is the ‘EMPHEMERALITY OF POWER’ and position that they hold. With everything in life, nothing is permanent except for the word of God almighty himself. What we ask again, and again is, Leaders, what do you want to be remembered for when you leave power? For certainly you must leave someday. If not today, tomorrow.
Power to these sit-tight leaders is like opium; it intoxicates; it is aphrodisiac, it gives delusional ‘Dutch courage’. It can either make or mar the holder. It is not certain – but – evanescent, fleeting, transitory, volatile and short – lived. (See https://tell.ng/magu-the-ephemerality-of-power-mike-ozekhome-san/).
PRESIDENT BUHARI: FROM YESTERDAY’S STRONGMAN TO TODAY’S VANISHING ACT!
In the realm of politics, power is as transient as a fleeting breeze. It is capable of elevating one individual to the highest echelons of authority, only to swiftly deposit them back into the dustbin of history. As Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari prepares to bid farewell to his tenure, the ephemeral nature of power becomes a glaring reality. Ephemerality stares him in the face. In a race against time, the president now finds himself compelled to attempt making amends so as to leave a lasting impression in the dwindling moments of his authority.
As the sun sets on Buhari’s presidency, the weight of unfinished matters, agenda and unfulfilled promises looms large. He is worried stiff. He says he will run and join his kiths and kins in Niger Republic as a safe haven if he is disturbed in Daura. He means it. He has done so much for the poverty-stricken country using Nigeria’s scarce resources to develop the country. The ever-watchful eyes of the public have always witnessed the rise and fall of leaders grappling with the complex web of power dynamics that define their poor tenures. Buhari, too, has experienced the fickleness of authority; He now understands that time waits for no leader.
In the face of his imminent departure, by constitutional effluxion of time, Buhari is desperate to utilize the remaining days of his vanishing presidency to attempt to make amends and do what he could not do in 8 years. He is now actually aware that his legacy will be shaped by whatever actions he can take within this remaining short span. The concept of a political “swan song” becomes a rallying call for him, as he races against time; against the clock. He now seeks redemption and a chance to reconcile past missteps. Can he do this successfully? I do not think so. Or, do you?
Like a performer on a grand stage, Buhari is noe fully cognizant of the fleeting applause and the ephemeral nature of public favor he had enjoyed so far, even while underperforming. The ticking hands of time now fuels his sense of urgency, urging him to seize the opportunity to rectify the grave missteps that have defined his tenure. Yet, the question remains: Can a leader mend the gaping wounds of a bleeding and beleaguered nation in this twilight of their power? I do not think so. Or, do you?
As we observe the closing chapter of Buhari’s lack-lustre presidency, we witness a leader grappling with the inherent fragility of power. The transitory nature of authority stands as a stark reminder to Buhari that time is an unforgiving adversary. It allows for only a limited window to enact any changes. Buhari’s quest for redemption in this final act is emblematic of the universal struggle to harness the ephemeral nature of power for lasting impact. But, it is too late now. History, a diligent recorder of events, has already closed his chapter.
BUHARI’S LAST MINUTE BAZAAR OF CONTRACTS AND APPOINTMENTS
The tabloids and front pages of our social media timelines have been abuzz with reports highlighting a common trend of Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), along with some Governors, engaging in last-minute appointments, humongous expenditures and award of contracts in hundreds of billions.
It was expected that the President and Governors should gracefully wind down their activities and leave certain crucial decisions for their incoming successors. This approach is important to prevent the imposition of projects that may be considered insignificant by the new administration; avoid policy reversals that could negatively impact various stakeholders; and maintain a stable and predictable investment and business environment.
Unfortunately, this ideal scenario now appears to be fading away faster than politicians’ promises after elections. Such hurried decisions often overdue, but they also tend to create predicaments for the incoming governments.
Imagine the shock and angst of a Nation discovering that, a mere 19 days before President Buhari was set to depart office, reports emerged on May 10, 2023, revealing his request for Senate approval of an $800 million loan from the World Bank. The purpose? To finance the National Social Safety Network Programme, aiming to soften the blow of fuel subsidy removal! Gosh!
Apart from the undeniable fact that such a loan would further burden the country’s already towering debt, the timing of the request, so close to the expiration of Buhari’s regime, raised eyebrows and sparked concerns among many Nigerians. It appears to be an act aimed at placing cherry on top of his presidential sundae just before handing over the baton.
One cannot help but wonder if this trend of last-minute borrowings is an attempt to leave a lasting legacy, or simply an act of great mischief, reminiscent of a student pulling an all-nighter to finish an assignment due the next morning. Either way, it certainly puts more suspense and uncertainty on the minds of an already drama-filled realm of Nigerian politics.
Renowned legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola SAN, the esteemed founder of Afe Babalola University Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), has expressed strong disapproval of President Muhammadu Buhari’s proposition to the National Assembly regarding a fresh $800 million loan aimed at funding the National Social Safety Network Programme (NSSNP). He wondered how Nigeria can be declared bankrupt and still borrow more money. He advised the NASS to reject the request.
Furthermore, during a meeting chaired by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on April 19, 2023, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) granted approval for numerous contracts amounting to over N100 billion.
President Buhari and his ministers have also authorized contracts exceeding N3.7 trillion in the final stages of his administration, specifically between March 20, 2023, and May 14, 2023, and after the conclusion of the general elections. Only few days ago, Buhari wrote to the Senate to approve $800 million from the World Bank to allegedly finance the National Safety Net Programme- to support poor and vulnerable Nigerians through bank cash transfers. Mr President sir, why not leave this for your successor. Where have you been sir?
Only in December, 2022, the NASS approved Buhari’s #819.5bn request for domestic loan. And just on May 4, 2023, the “yes sir” and “Take-a-bow” worst Senate in Nigeria’s legislative history, since the time of Nnamdi Azikiwe and Dr. Nwafor Orizu, approved Buhari’s #22.7 trillion, CBN’s “Ways and Means” loan request just 26 days before quitting!
In a display of consistency, President Buhari has been skillfully curating an ensemble of individuals to occupy various esteemed positions. Just last month, he skillfully reassembled the Board of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, unveiling the dashing James Akintola as the new Captain at the helm.
Not stopping there, he cunningly selected the retiring Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Garba Baba Umar, to take on the pivotal role of Senior Security Adviser on International Police Cooperation and Counter-terrorism in the Office of the Minister of Police Affairs. It’s almost as if President Buhari possesses a knack for handpicking the “finest” talents in his twilight.
And just when you thought his appointing prowess had reached its zenith, news broke of the appointment of Toyin Madein as the new Accountant General of the Federation following the vacancy for a year due to the suspension of the former AGF, Ahmed Idris, amidst allegations of a staggering N109 billion fraud.
On May 23, 2023 (less than one week to go), President Buhari not done has formally communicated with the Senate to approve humongous sums to settle judgment debts amounting to $566,754,584.31, £98,526,012.00, and N226,281,801,881.64, allegedly owed by the Federal government. Promissory notes are the means of payment. This is well over 500 billion. Where have Mr. President and the Attorney-General been? Who are these judgement creditors? Which courts gave the judgement? Were there any appeals or agreements entered into? Why now for God’s sake? Why not leave it to the next administration since government is a continuum?
As the curtains drew inexorably to a close on Buhari’s tenure, the circus-like atmosphere began to fade. The contracts, the loans, the appointments, the sudden remembrance of existing “debts” due, all remain as reminders of a complex dance between fleeting power, strategy, and public perception. Only time would reveal the true impact of these decisions and whether they would stand as a testament to effective governance or a captivating yet ultimately hollow performance. Do you know the impact? The lives of Nigerians yet unborn have been mortgaged.
BUHARI’S MIGRATION FROM ONE ‘NIGER’ TO ANOTHER
President Buhari’s threatened migration from Nigeria if he faces too much disturbance after his tenure reminds us of the ephemeral nature of power. Buhari’s audacious proclamation to leave Nigeria if “disturbed too much” after his tenure is reminiscent of a fleeting magician who mesmerizes the audience with grand illusions, only to vanish when the curtain falls. It begs the question: does his commitment to the Nigerian people only extend as far as his political reign? True leaders stand with their nation, through thick and thin, rather than making flighty escape plans. Is he afraid of the apparition of his woeful below average performance? Is it not this same Buhari that one Mallam …. tracked from Lagos to Abuja to celebrate his victory? Is it not the same President that …, rode a bicycle from Kaduna to Abuja to herald his victory? How the cookies crumble! How the mighty are fallen!
President Buhari’s offhand remark about leaving Nigeria if disturbed after his tenure reveals the transient nature of his power and its tenuous grip on the nation. Leadership requires steadfastness, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the people. By hinting at an escape plan, Buhari inadvertently highlights the frailty of his connection to Nigeria and raises doubts about his dedication to the challenges that lie ahead. In the end, a true leader must weather the storm and stand strong, rather than evaporating into the ephemeral mist of fleeting power. President Buhari fails again and again to rewrite his poor history of governance.
ADMONITIONS
- POWER IS INDEED EPHEMERAL
There is no man that has rules for ever, every king must have a heir – because nobody is immortal. If we can view life as power, then we would know that, one day, just like life goes – power disappears. The rise and fall of great empires men – should teach us about the ever changing nature of power.
- LEAD FOR THE PEOPLE AND NOT SELF
Leaders now go into power with the mindset of enriching their family, friends and generation. To many, it is – let us go and take my share. This a bad practice and ideology to follow. A study of all people-oriented leadership ends well – with great appreciation from the people. Little wonder some politicians are not re – elected on several occasions.
- LEARN FROM MISTAKES OF PAST LEADERS AND NOT YOURS
It is only a fool that would want to get his finger into the fire, after witnessing his neighbour’s get burnt by the same attempt. History is important. If you do not study history, you cannot shape the future. We should always endeavour to read antecedents of past leaders and their mistakes so that we can correct our paths.
- THE LAW OF KARMA IS REAL
Whatever goes around comes around. Whatever you sow – so shall you reap. It is a natural law. Men of power have always reaped what they sowed. We should learn that.
- POWER INTOXICATES
There is a saying that, “apart from the occasional saint, it is difficult for people who have the smallest amount of power to be nice.” I would say no more on these.
CONCLUSION
It is not a mistake that God gave us dominion over the world. We must be wary of power. We must strive to exercise it for the benefit an survival of humanity. Power is ephemeral; it does not last. It comes and goes. Therefore, men of power must try to acknowledge this fact and guide against intoxication. Power has made and marred many great men. We must accept this truth or face the bitter aftermath of our actions.
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