Wike’s Ingratitude: A Leadership Misstep Rooted In Forgetfulness, by Isaac Asabor

African proverbs often carry timeless wisdom, guiding us through the complexities of life and leadership. One such saying reminds us, “When a child is helped to ascend the hilly road from the river, he gets home and tells his parents that his helper merely held one of his hands, claiming he did the rest.” This proverb cautions against the dangers of ingratitude, which diminishes the collective effort behind any success.

The recent comments by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, bring this proverb to life. Speaking at a civic reception for loyal politicians in Port Harcourt, Wike dismissed claims that he was made governor by others, insisting he fought his way to power. While he acknowledged receiving support, he made it clear that nobody handed him the governorship, contrasting his rise to power with that of his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whom Wike claims he personally installed.

This article delves into the implications of Wike’s remarks, which reflect a troubling trend of self-aggrandizement in leadership, disregard for gratitude, and a failure to embrace the communal essence of governance.

Leadership, especially in a democracy, is rarely a one-man show. It is a collective effort fueled by the support of voters, party structures, allies, and mentors. Wike’s rise to power is no exception. While he may have demonstrated personal grit, it is undeniable that key figures, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Patience Jonathan, and Peter Odili, played pivotal roles in his emergence as Rivers State Governor in 2015.

At the time, Rotimi Amaechi, the then-governor, had fallen out with the Jonathans, prompting them to back Wike, who was a trusted ally. Videos circulating on social media even show Patience Jonathan presenting Wike as the preferred successor to Amaechi. These contributions were not mere formalities, they were instrumental to his emergence as the governor of Rivers State at the time. 

By downplaying the roles these figures played, Wike not only rewrites history but also diminishes the value of collective effort in leadership. His statement risks alienating those who contributed to his success, reinforcing the notion that he views governance as a solitary conquest rather than a communal responsibility.

The African saying, “The River that forgets its source will dry up,” underscores the consequences of ingratitude. Leaders who fail to acknowledge the contributions of others risk eroding trust and goodwill, which are essential for sustaining leadership. Wike’s remarks come across as dismissive, if not outright ungrateful, towards those who supported him in his political journey.

Acknowledging the contributions of others does not diminish one’s achievements; rather, it enhances credibility and fosters unity. Wike’s failure to do so sends a demoralizing message to his supporters and aspiring leaders, undermining the very essence of democracy.

Wike’s insistence that he fought his way to power, while perhaps partly true, feeds into a broader issue of self-adulation that has no place in democratic leadership. Democracy is built on the principle that leaders are stewards of the people’s trust, not self-made monarchs.

When leaders begin to view themselves as the sole architects of their success, it fosters arrogance and a lack of accountability. Such attitudes can alienate allies, discourage collaboration, and ultimately weaken democratic institutions. Wike’s contrasting narrative, asserting that he made himself governor while he made Fubara governor, further complicates matters. It not only trivializes the people’s role in electing leaders but also sets a dangerous precedent for how power is perceived and wielded.

Gratitude is not just an ethical obligation; it is a practical necessity for good leadership. The African proverb, “The one who climbs a good tree is helped by many hands,” reminds us that success is rarely achieved in isolation. Leaders who recognize and honor the contributions of others strengthen their moral authority and foster a culture of respect and collaboration.

Wike’s remarks, if delivered with humility, could have conveyed a different message. Acknowledging that he fought for his political survival while also expressing deep gratitude for the support he received would have painted him as both strong and humble, a rare but powerful combination in leadership.

Wike’s statement offers a cautionary tale for aspiring leaders about the dangers of ingratitude and self-aggrandizement. Leadership is not just about achieving power; it is about serving others and building bridges. The African proverb, “A tree does not make a forest,” underscores the importance of collective effort.

Aspiring leaders must learn that acknowledging the roles others play in their journey does not make them weak, rather, it makes them relatable and credible. Gratitude builds trust, strengthens alliances, and inspires the next generation of leaders to embrace humility and service.

As a seasoned politician, Wike has the opportunity to reshape his narrative. Gratitude, even when belated, has the power to mend relationships and rebuild trust. By openly acknowledging the contributions of those who supported him, Wike can demonstrate that he values collaboration and respects the democratic process.

Furthermore, as a minister and elder statesman, Wike should strive to be a unifying figure rather than a polarizing one. His current position offers him a platform to mentor aspiring leaders and reinforce the principles of humility, gratitude, and service.

Wike’s assertion that he made himself governor, while perhaps a reflection of his political resilience, misses a critical point about leadership: no one succeeds alone. The African proverb warns us that “The hand that gives is never forgotten.” Leaders who embrace gratitude not only honor their supporters but also lay the groundwork for enduring legacies.

Wike’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of humility and gratitude in leadership. By acknowledging the collective effort behind his success, he can set a positive example for the next generation and reinforce the democratic values that underpin governance. In the end, true leadership is not about claiming credit but about serving others and celebrating the communal journey that makes success possible.