In every circle I find myself, my constant prayer is that God should uplift the person who will open doors for others without closing them. If the greedy one rises first, the rest will be left in distress. Because as a people in Nigeria, one of the major challenges affecting our growth is that many of us abuse the very process we once benefited from. When we are in need, we expect compassion, fairness, and help, but once we rise to the top, we make it difficult for others below to enjoy the same process.
Someone who got a job without paying a kobo will now demand money from new applicants before offering them the same opportunity, and without payment, the applicant may not get the job. Another person who was freely appointed to a political office by his boss will expect financial returns from anyone seeking his help to occupy even a lower office.
This is one of the reasons corruption continues to rise in governance today. Those who should guide, caution, and hold others accountable are the same ones collecting kickbacks from them. That’s why whenever I see someone who acts differently in this regard, I don’t hesitate to commend and appreciate them for being exceptional.
Earlier this year, when some political office holders he has helped to be in position paid a visit to Hon. TAO in his hometown, Okene, they appreciated him for his contributions.
In his response, he said, “I am not demanding anything from any of you, not because I have too much, but because the person who gave me the opportunity I am enjoying today never asked me for money before I got it, and since I assumed office till today, he has never demanded a dime from me. So why should I demand from anyone? After all, it’s not by my power but by God’s grace. If God had said no, I wouldn’t have been here today.”
Had I not been present, I might have found it hard to believe such words, considering how rare that mindset has become in our country today. Sadly, what used to be considered corruption has now become a norm in Nigeria.
When I called him after receiving my appointment letter and told him I wanted to present it to him in person, he said, “There’s no need., I replied, sir, in politics, things like this should be made public.” He responded, “Do you know how many people I’ve helped that never made it to the media?” I told him, “that was then, but from now on, whatever you do will be made public, except I’m not aware of it.”
When I accompanied one of his constituents whom he helped secure a job at NASRDA, he advised him saying, “remember how you got this job. We never met before today. I didn’t ask about your religion or clan. I’m not asking you to join APC or to follow me politically. You didn’t even support me before I won this election. I’m doing this to please the God who sent FGYB to me. Always remember this, ‘when someone seeks help from you, don’t limit your kindness to people you know. Help even those you don’t know. After God, FGYB made me who I am today. He never looked at my age or background. I’ll always follow his example and help whenever I have the capacity.”
This is the kind of mindset Nigeria needs, leaders who help others freely, not because of personal gain, but out of gratitude to God and humanity.
If everyone who climbs up leaves the door open for others, Nigeria will not only grow, it will heal.
– Engr. Ira Habib writes from Kogi state.
