“All Of You”: The Shortchanging Tale Of Tortoise And Nigerian Politicians, by Isaac Asabor

In the enchanting realm of fables, where animals converse and wisdom abounds, there exists a peculiar character, the Tortoise. Known by the whimsical nickname “All of You,” this slow-moving creature has a knack for claiming gifts meant for everyone. For the sake of clarity, it is expedient to weave this delightful tale, drawing parallels to our own world of politics.

Roguishly capitalizing on the literary meaning of his nickname, “All of you”, whenever generous souls bestowed gifts upon the community, they would declare, “This is for all of you.” But sly Tortoise, with his cunning shell and wily eyes, interpreted this differently. To him, “All of you” meant precisely what it said: “All” belonged to him. And so, he snatched up the offerings, be they fruits, trinkets, or even well-cooked sumptuous pounded yam and soup, declaring, “Ah, this is for me, indeed!”

The other animals grumbled, but Tortoise remained unfazed. His shell grew heavier with each ill-gotten treasure, and he reveled in his nickname. “All of you” became synonymous with greed, a cautionary tale whispered by fireflies and sung by nightingales.

Against the foregoing backdrop, it is germane for us to journey beyond the forest and into the bustling cities of Nigeria, particularly Abuja, where politicians roam like majestic lions, their roars echoing through rallies and corridors of power. Each one bears a nickname, a glimpse into their essence. But the most fitting moniker for this breed is “Politician.”

Why, you ask? Because, like our dear Tortoise, they too claim gifts meant for all. Constituencies bestow trust, votes, and dreams upon them, whispering, “This is for all of you.” Yet, when the coffers overflow, when contracts are signed and promises made, the Politician’s shell expands. Roads crumble, schools decay, and hospitals weep, while they dine on the fruits of public labor.

Given the foregoing backdrop, little wonder Nigerian politicians often bear nicknames, and these monikers reveal intriguing facets of their personalities and political careers. These names serve as shorthand for their characteristics, achievements, or controversies, capturing the essence of their public personas. Whether it is “Star Boy” Yemi Osinbajo, “Atikulate” Atiku Abubakar, or the enigmatic “Jagaban” Bola Ahmed Tinubu, these nicknames provide a glimpse into the complex world of Nigerian politics, where symbolism and identity intertwine.

In fact, spotlighting a few of these monikers reveals that Yemi Osinbajo (Star Boy), the former Vice President, who shined bright in Buhari’s constellation, captures perfectly edited moments on social media as his nickname, “Star Boy,” reflects this celestial allure.

In a similar vein, Atiku Abubakar (Atikulate), the former Vice President, bearer of a simple yet powerful name, inspires his supporters. “Atikulate” echoes his essence, devoid of satire or mystery. Also, Peter Obi (Obidient), the savvy businessman and former Anambra governor leads the “Obidient Movement.” His clean image contrasts with the murky waters of Nigerian politics.

Still in the same vein, Yahaya Bello (White Lion), the former Kogi state Governor, believing himself rare, roars as the White Lion but paradoxically on the run. Rumors swirl of a movie in his honor.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Jagaban, City Boy), the master of Lagos politics, wields influence like a seasoned warrior. “Jagaban” and now “City Boy” signify his dominion.

And so, dear reader, whether in fables or reality, the lesson remains: Beware the “All of You” and the Politician alike. For their shells may bulge with riches, but the true wealth lies in serving all, not just themselves. Let us remember this as we navigate our own kingdoms, whether enchanted forests or bustling cities.

At this juncture, it is expedient to urge Nigerian politicians who are in various positions of public offices to always prioritize the common good of all Nigerians, and that they should desist from behaving like the proverbial Tortoise whose name was “All of you”, and with which he used in shortchanging the people, and that they should see their positions as calls for selfless public service for the betterment of Nigeria’s economy and Nigerians as a people.

The reason for the foregoing advice cannot be farfetched as it is crystal clear that in the heart of Nigeria’s political landscape lies a critical challenge. And the challenge is that of the pursuit of personal gain versus the collective wellbeing of the nation. This is as politicians ascend to power, they often face the temptation to prioritize their own interests over those of the people they serve. However, it is time for a paradigm shift, one that places the welfare of all Nigerians at the forefront.

In as much as Nigeria’s public service operates on a reward system, compensating civil servants and political officeholders through salaries, fringe benefits, and allowances as these rewards are essential, public office holders, particularly politicians in government, should not allow the remunerations and perks that are paid to them overshadow the greater purpose of public service.

In fact, two most important reasons why politicians should consider the collective wellbeing of the people are for the sake of national development and professionalism and integrity.

Without a doubt, public service plays a pivotal role in national development. It is through government initiatives that infrastructures, such as roads, bridges, and power plants are built, even as creating jobs and improving the business environment are also expected benefits from public service.  In fact, when politicians prioritize the common good, they contribute directly to the country’s growth.

Again, a world-class public service demands professionalism, integrity, and excellence. By serving selflessly, politicians uphold these values, ensuring that policies are implemented effectively and programs benefit all citizens. When leaders act with passion and commitment, the entire nation thrives. While the path to selfless public service is not without obstacles, there are steps politicians can take.

First and foremost is the step of transparency. This is as the people expect politicians in government to always communicate their actions openly; not like the proverbial Tortoise that cunningly shortchanged the people by deceptively using its nickname, “All of us” to do that. Therefore, our politicians, unlike the proverbial Tortoise, should always ensure that what belongs to the people, their constituents, are given to them, without appropriating such dividends to themselves because they bear the contextual nickname, “Politicians”.

In fact, many reforms are ongoing within the public service, but awareness remains limited outside the ministries and agencies. The National Strategy for Public Service Reform (NSPSR) should be run by patriotic leaders to serve as a coordinating mechanism, fostering better linkages and effective monitoring of reforms.

For the sake of clarity, the NSPSR outlines a phased implementation plan, aiming for a world-class public service by 2025. Politicians should align their actions with this vision, focusing on critical institutional changes, professionalism, and citizen-centered service delivery.

In fact, Nigerian politicians have a unique opportunity, to rise above self-interest and champion the collective wellbeing. Thus, Let us envision a public service where integrity, excellence, and passion drive every decision. By doing so, we pave the way for sustainable national development and a brighter future for all Nigerians.

Given the foregoing, it is germane to remind our leaders that true leadership lies not in what one gains personally, but in the positive impact made on the lives of others. Therefore, it is incumbent on them to choose the path of selflessness and build a Nigeria that thrives together as they are now in positions to do so.