In recent times, the conversation around leadership and followership within our political space has become both urgent and unavoidable. It calls for deep reflection, honesty, and a sincere desire to do better, for ourselves, for those we lead, and for the future we all hope to build.
It is truly disheartening that a follower is often branded disloyal simply for expressing genuine concerns or offering a different perspective. When did honesty become rebellion? When did speaking with sincerity become a threat? A follower who voices discomfort or suggests a new way forward is not an enemy, they are, in fact, a committed partner in progress.
Loyalty should never be mistaken for silence. True loyalty is rooted in truth, courage, and the willingness to stand for what is right, even when it is uncomfortable. It is the kind of loyalty that seeks not to please, but to build; not to flatter, but to strengthen.
Sadly, many who occupy positions of leadership today have grown more comfortable with sycophancy than with truth. They reward praise over honesty and surround themselves with voices that echo approval rather than insight.
But leadership built on flattery is fragile, it lacks depth, it lacks vision, and ultimately, it lacks direction. Such leaders often find themselves isolated in critical moments, wounded by the very system they failed to nurture with sincerity and openness.
A true leader must have a large and humble heart, one that welcomes correction, listens without prejudice, and values every voice, especially those that challenge the norm. Leadership is not about control; it is about connection. It is about creating a space where followers feel seen, heard, and respected.
When leaders embrace constructive criticism and encourage bold, honest followership, they build trust. And where there is trust, there is unity. Where there is unity, there is strength. And where there is strength, there is progress.
Let us begin to redefine what it means to lead and to follow. Let leaders learn to listen, not just to respond, but to understand. Let followers find the courage to speak, not to oppose, but to contribute. Only then can we build a system where leadership is not feared, followership is not silenced, and together, we move forward with purpose, dignity, and hope.
Lanre Obalaja writes from Kabba the Headquarters of Kogi West.
