There are some Benin proverbs; “Eyen nemwen obi, irhi kekan ibieka yaroro” and “Ekita n’emwen akon,” which translate to “a snake without venom, a toothless bulldog, a commander without troops, a leader without followers, a harmless voice.” They can be likened to the notion that a serving army captain can be more powerful than a retired general. It is a vivid reminder that once you’re out of power, your influence diminishes. Influence is not sustained by past glory, while respect is earned and sustained through wisdom and restraint. A title without followers, or authority without moral persuasion, gradually loses its force.
Every society has elders whose words once shaped public opinion and influenced the course of history. However, time has a way of redefining influence. The loudest voice is not always the most persuasive, and yesterday’s hero must understand that every generation has its own challenges and its own leaders.
Greatness is preserved not by constant battles but by knowing when to step back with dignity.
The proverbs above have been used by some, to describe Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Whether one agrees or disagrees with that comparison, it reflects the opinion of those who believe that his repeated interventions in national politics no longer command the authority they once did. A statesman should strive to be remembered for his enduring legacy rather than for recurring political confrontations.
Baba has served Nigeria in many capacities. He has been a military Head of State, a civilian President, and one of Africa’s most recognized elder statesmen. Those achievements are permanent chapters in the nation’s history. They deserve respect and appreciation irrespective of political differences.
At this stage of life, perhaps it is time for Baba to retreat from the political battlefield and allow his children and grandchildren to surround him with love, honour, and peace. There comes a season when the greatest contribution of an elder is not constant participation in political contests but the quiet offering of wisdom and counsel.
The saying that “you are dancing naked in the market square while the beating of the drum no longer matches your dancing steps,” is a metaphorical appeal for self reflection. It suggests that public interventions should be measured, constructive, and consistent with the dignity expected of a respected elder. History often remembers not only what leaders achieved but also how they conducted themselves in their final years.
Experience shows that political endorsements do not determine destiny. Chief Obasanjo did not support President Muhammadu Buhari, yet Buhari became President. He equally did not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yet Tinubu emerged President. One should be able to differentiate between strategic calculations, such as the ones employed by Northern leaders the two times they assisted Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to emerge as president of this country, from feeble attempts at enthroning leadership employing venomous personal vendetta. Political power ultimately emerges through circumstances beyond the control of any individual.
The same principle applies to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Only God and circumstances beyond human comprehension will determine the answer to his quest to lead Nigeria as president. Personal disagreements should not become lifelong campaigns of opposition. Whatever differences may exist, it is equally important to remember the periods when Atiku Abubakar stood by Chief Obasanjo before, during, and after his presidency. Gratitude is one of the noblest virtues in leadership.
Power belongs to God alone. Men may influence events, but they do not determine destiny. Those who have occupied the highest offices in the land should resist the temptation to assume the role of kingmakers or destiny makers. Political authority is temporary, but history’s judgment is permanent.
This therefore is my candid advice to you, sir. Protect the legacy you have built over decades of public service. Rise above personal grievances, embrace reconciliation where possible, and allow history to remember you as a statesman whose final years reflected wisdom, humility, and grace. Do not allow your disagreement with Atiku Abubakar to overshadow your contributions to Nigeria. Above all, remember that only God gives power. No human being should play God.
Ehigie Uzamere
