A Lawmaker And His “Do You Know Me?” Braggadocio: The Childish Flaunting Of Power Gone Awry, by Isaac Asabor

The phrase “Do you know who I am?” has become almost iconic as a power move used by certain individuals in privileged positions, often as a shortcut to bypass procedures or intimidate others into submission. This refrain has permeated different spheres of Nigerian society, from corporate offices to public spaces, but when a lawmaker, a supposed servant of the people, uses such a line in public, it begs the question: “Why would someone elected to represent the people resort to such a display of arrogance?” This article explores the incident of a Nigerian lawmaker Title: A Lawmaker and His “Do You Know Me?” Braggadocio: The Childishness of Power Gone Awry

The phrase “Do you know who I am?” has become almost iconic as a power move used by certain individuals in privileged positions, often as a shortcut to bypass procedures or intimidate others into submission. This refrain has permeated different spheres of Nigerian society, from corporate offices to public spaces, but when a lawmaker, a supposed servant of the people, uses such a line in public, it begs the question: why would someone elected to represent the people resort to such a display of arrogance? This article explores the incident of a member of the House of Representatives, Alex Ikwechegh, on Sunday, who assaulted an e-hailing (Bolt) driver who went to deliver a package to him.

Ikwechegh, who confronted the dispatch person simply for performing his duties, unarguably exhibited a supercilious behavior that exemplifies the kind of entitlement that is not only unnecessary but is, frankly, embarrassing for a leader.

Imagine this scenario: a hardworking dispatch person, legally performing his role, adheres to the set procedures while delivering a package or following a service protocol, only to be met with a tirade from a lawmaker brandishing his status as a weapon. The dispatch worker, perhaps used to encountering difficult customers but not one so empowered and self-important, might have been shocked at the audacity of an elected official resorting to “Do you know who I am?”

Such displays highlight the unfortunate dissonance between the principles these lawmakers profess to uphold and their actions, which seem to echo a colonial mindset that once positioned the ruling class as “untouchable.” For an elected representative to undermine a worker, whose job entails ensuring timely and safe deliveries, is not just immature, it reveals a deeply troubling attitude of superiority. This article calls this out as a textbook case of childishness that reduces an individual’s stature and, more importantly, damages public trust in governance.

Without a doubt, the concept of public service requires humility, respect, and accountability, qualities that should be integral to every public officer’s conduct, both in private and public settings. A lawmaker, elected by the people and for the people, should understand that the essence of his or her position is servitude. The aim should be to uplift, encourage, and inspire dignity and respect within society.

When a lawmaker defaults to a juvenile form of boasting and intimidation, they violate the unspoken social contract of humility and responsibility. It is a self-deceptive power trip, a mannerism that reeks of insecurity. The true power of any lawmaker should be in their ability to connect with the average person, to appreciate the role every citizen plays, from the highest-ranking official to the delivery personnel ensuring smooth day-to-day operations in the society.

Moreover, such behavior only reinforces the perception that Nigerian leaders are removed from the daily realities of the citizens they represent. Instead of setting an example, this lawmaker’s words conveyed an underlying notion: “I am above you.”

In a society striving for democratic ideals, statements like “Do you know who I am?” serve as chilling reminders of an authoritarian past that the nation is still trying to escape. It is a phrase that doesn’t just ask for special treatment; it implies a breach of the democratic principle that everyone should be subject to the same laws and rules. It is this selective application of status that has hindered the nation’s progress.

“Do you know who I am?” is emblematic of the elitist mindset that disregards the value of every other individual. When lawmakers resort to such language, they are not only demeaning the recipient of their condescension; they are broadcasting a message of entitlement, suggesting that respect and due process apply only to the “little people” and not to the privileged few. For a lawmaker, this is inexcusable.

To be clear, boasting and flexing one’s status is unbecoming of any adult, much less one charged with serving the public. Bragging in a moment of frustration, especially to someone simply performing their duties, is indicative of a lack of self-discipline and respect for others. It demonstrates an impulse-driven immaturity that should have no place in public office. A representative should act as a role model and a figure of restraint, understanding that real power is best expressed in one’s ability to remain composed and respectful, regardless of the situation.

Moreover, any official who needs to remind others of their authority is a step away from losing it. Authority is most effective when it is wielded subtly and with the goal of helping others rather than oneself. This kind of display alienates the very people who support the official’s position and rely on their leadership.

Aside from the damage to one’s personal reputation, these braggadocios impact public perception and trust. Citizens see their lawmakers behaving in this manner and start to doubt the integrity of the entire legislative process. If a lawmaker cannot show respect to a citizen who is simply doing their job, then how can they be expected to respect the mandates of the people or fight for their constituents?

Such incidents also have a trickle-down effect. When the people who make and enforce laws act entitled and belittling, it creates a culture that normalizes this behavior. Ordinary citizens may feel they need to demean others or leverage status in order to get what they want. It establishes a precedent where respect is contingent upon one’s position rather than one’s humanity, eroding the very fabric of civil society.

The world has witnessed leaders who maintained humility regardless of their title or achievements. Nelson Mandela, for instance, never used his status to intimidate or gain unfair advantage. Instead, he spent his life elevating others and empowering the oppressed. Likewise, leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. are celebrated not just for their achievements but for their steadfast commitment to treating every person with dignity.

Nigeria has, in fact, produced leaders with similar qualities. Figures like the late Dora Akunyili and NuhuRibadu gained respect not by reminding people of their power but by demonstrating their commitment to justice and fairness. They exemplified that a true leader doesn’t boast about authority but demonstrates it through action, discipline, and empathy.

It is high time that lawmakers and other leaders in Nigeria take stock of the power dynamics they reinforce when they wield authority inappropriately. Rather than view themselves as “above” those they represent, they should see themselves as stewards, entrusted with a role that requires humility and integrity.

A lawmaker who truly values their position will respond to every individual, regardless of their role, with respect. They will remember that they, too, are citizens first, and their office is a platform for service, not for wielding entitlement. In an ideal world, this lawmaker would reflect on this incident and make it a lesson in restraint, issuing an apology to the dispatch worker and demonstrating to the public that they value humility over pomp.

In fact, the incident of the lawmaker and his “Do you know who I am?” braggadocio is a reminder of the work that lies ahead in reforming Nigeria’s leadership culture. The entitlement displayed was not only unprofessional but childish, unbecoming of an official whose duty is to serve and elevate the people, not belittle them.

We must strive toward a society where respect for the rule of law and fellow citizens is paramount. As public officers, lawmakers should embody the principles of maturity, integrity, and humility that they were elected to uphold. Anything less is not just childish, it is an abdication of their duty to lead by example.