By: Femi Adeleye
In the realm of politics, loyalty is a quality that is often overlooked but highly essential. It is the glue that holds parties and movements together, allowing them to weather storms and achieve their goals.
However, in today’s political landscape, it’s common to see individuals jumping from one political party to another or switching allegiance from one leader to another, often in pursuit of personal gain or perceived benefits.
While it’s understandable to seek commensurate patronage for one’s efforts, it’s equally important to recognize the value of loyalty and gratitude.
Loyalty test is a big deal in politics. It is the ultimate test. You are either loyal or not, that is you are either for those who made you or you are against them. These things tend to happen in politics. The best of friends become estranged and the mentor and his mentee become sworn enemies in the contest for power.
Let’s take a look at the former Governor of Lagos State, Raji Fashola’s relationship with his principal, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who he succeeded in 2007. Somewhere, along the line, their relationship was said to have become strained. His hangers-on do not help matters. They goad him on, saying with the power at his disposal, there is nothing he cannot do, including taking on the one who made him.
Till today, nobody can point out what happened between Tinubu and Fashola during the latter’s tenure in office which gave rise to the rumours that he may not be given a second term ticket.
Despite everything, Fashola did his constitutionally guaranteed two terms as governor and was appointed a minister after leaving the government house in Lagos in 2015.
In politics, a protege must remain loyal to his master, till death do them apart. So, he must protect the interest of the master, come rain, come shine. In political circles, he must forever be beholden to the master, who is seen as his godfather. Things may end up not working that way. The reason for this is obvious: power. After coming into power, the protege perceives himself as equal to his master. He places himself on the same pedestal with the godfather.
Now, SIm Fubara is at that juncture of his political life. Considering the fact that loyalty is hardly rewarded in Nigerian Politics, Fubara was lucky to be chosen by Wike as his preferred choice for Governor of Rivers State out of many qualified Wike’s disciples. Alas, he turned against the hand that once fed and supported him.
No matter what life throws at you, there’s one thing that remains constant: the debt of gratitude you owe to those who helped shape your journey.
When the winds of adversity blow, and you’re faced with challenges that test your relationship with these benefactors, remember the sacrifices they made for you.
Don’t let temporary setbacks or misunderstandings cloud your judgment and lead you to speak ill of or betray those who once had your back.
Instead, take a step back, reflect on the good times, and remember the reasons why you’re where you are today.
Loyalty and gratitude are virtues that will take you far in life. They will earn you respect, build trust, and strengthen relationships.
So, honor those who came before you, and never forget the hands that once fed and supported you. They may have saved your life, but you can repay them by being a good person, staying loyal, and showing gratitude.
