Urging Wike To Eschew “Gragra Politics” And Embrace Statesmanship, by Isaac Asabor

Nyesom Wike, the indefatigable and vibrant politician, is no stranger to the headlines. As a former governor of Rivers State and a minister under the Tinubu administration, Wike’s fiery style and outspoken nature have made him a household name in Nigerian politics. However, the approach that has served him well in gaining attention and political leverage, what many describe as “Gragra politics”, now calls for reassessment.

Gragra politics, characterized by aggressive posturing, combative rhetoric, and a tendency to stoke controversy, may have its place in the rough-and-tumble world of Nigerian politics. But as Wike transitions from the high-octane arena of state-level governance to a national stage that demands diplomacy and tact, it is time for him to recalibrate his approach. The stakes are higher, the responsibilities weightier, and the expectations vastly different. Wike must embrace a style that reflects the maturity and gravitas of a statesman rather than the impulsiveness of a political gladiator.

Wike’s years as governor of Rivers State showcased his ability to command attention and rally supporters. His “Gragra” style, from his fiery press conferences to his dramatic decisions, endeared him to some as a no-nonsense leader. However, critics argue that this style often overshadowed meaningful discourse and alienated potential allies.

One glaring example was his public fallout with the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His relentless criticism of the party’s presidential candidate and leadership structure during the 2023 general elections not only caused significant internal divisions but also damaged his long-standing political affiliations. While Wike’s grievances may have been valid, his approach often came across as confrontational rather than constructive.

As a minister, Wike now represents not just Rivers State but the entire nation in a sensitive and critical capacity. This role requires him to navigate complex political terrain, build alliances across party lines, and address national issues with a sense of balance and decorum. Gragra politics, while effective in rallying local supporters, risks undermining these objectives at the national level.

Statesmanship is the art of balancing assertiveness with diplomacy, vision with pragmatism, and passion with wisdom. It is about fostering unity rather than division, seeking consensus rather than confrontation, and prioritizing the greater good over personal or political gain. For Wike to make a lasting impact in his current role, he must rise to the occasion as a statesman.

As a minister, Wike’s portfolio likely involves dealing with stakeholders across diverse sectors and regions. Diplomacy, therefore, is non-negotiable. Engaging stakeholders, whether they are political allies, opponents, or technocrats, requires a soft touch and a listening ear. Instead of Gragra, Wike should adopt an approach that emphasizes dialogue and collaboration.

Wike’s political journey has seen its fair share of bridges burned. Now is the time to rebuild them. In the national arena, relationships are currency. By mending fences with past adversaries and fostering new alliances, Wike can enhance his effectiveness and broaden his influence. This does not mean compromising his principles but finding common ground for the sake of progress.

Gragra politics often thrives on short-term gains and sensationalism. Statesmanship, on the other hand, demands a long-term vision. Wike must articulate a clear and compelling vision for his ministry and work tirelessly to implement it. Nigerians are yearning for leaders who can deliver tangible results, not just fiery speeches.

Wike need not look far for examples of leaders who transitioned from fiery populism to statesmanship. Late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, though initially underestimated, won widespread admiration for his calm demeanor and focus on resolving national issues. Similarly, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola earned respect for his pragmatic and solution-oriented approach.

Even within Rivers State, Wike can draw inspiration from his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi. Despite their political differences, Amaechi’s tenure as Minister of Transportation was marked by a focus on infrastructure development and minimal public drama. Wike has the opportunity to surpass these examples by combining his undeniable passion with a disciplined and results-driven approach.

If Wike continues to rely on Gragra politics, the risks are manifold. Firstly, he may alienate key stakeholders whose support is crucial for the success of his ministerial portfolio. Secondly, his style could overshadow substantive achievements, leading to a perception of ineffectiveness. Finally, Gragra politics at the national level risks damaging Nigeria’s image and undermining efforts to build trust and credibility both domestically and internationally.

To eschew Gragra politics and embrace statesmanship, Wike must, first and foremost, cultivate Emotional Intelligence: Leadership requires self-awareness and the ability to manage emotions effectively. He should focus on remaining calm under pressure and responding thoughtfully rather than reactively.

Secondly, he should invest in Policy Expertise. This is as a deep understanding of his ministerial responsibilities will bolster his credibility and enable him to make informed decisions. Surrounding himself with a team of technocrats and experts can also enhance his effectiveness.

Thirdly, Wike should engage in strategic communication.  His communication style should evolve to reflect his new role. This includes crafting messages that inspire confidence, build consensus, and convey a sense of purpose.

Above all, he should always seek feedback. This can be achieved by listening to constructive criticism and learning from past mistakes are hallmarks of great leaders. In fact, he should actively seek feedback from trusted advisors and adjust his approach as needed.

In fact, his political career has been defined by his larger-than-life personality and relentless energy. These traits have served him well in the past, but the demands of his current role necessitate a shift from Gragra politics to statesmanship. By embracing diplomacy, building bridges, and demonstrating vision, Wike can redefine his legacy and make a meaningful contribution to Nigeria’s development.

The choice is clear. He should refrain from the high-octane theatrics that garner headlines but yield little substance. Rather, he should be encouraged by his aides to rise to the challenge of true leadership that delivers lasting impact. For the sake of the nation and his political future, Wike must choose the latter. Nigeria deserves nothing less, and Wike has the potential to rise to the occasion.