The Crown Mandela Refused, by Osmund Agbo
Rumors of a power struggle continue to swirl around Aso Rock, despite official denials. The sudden cancellation of the Independence Day parade, sweeping military retirements, and the reported raid on the Abuja residence of a former petroleum minister linked to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari have fueled speculation and unease. For many Nigerians, it feels reminiscent of the political tension that surrounded former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s controversial third-term bid a period when official reassurances did little to calm public suspicion.
Once again, silence is mistaken for surrender. Nigerians may often endure quietly, but they are neither blind nor unaware. History has taught us that every season of restraint eventually gives way to judgment. Yet what may trouble citizens most today is the growing perception that a leader once seen as a defender of democracy now risks becoming its adversary.
French philosopher Albert Camus warned that “the slave begins by demanding justice and ends by wanting to wear a crown.” The journey from liberation to domination is a familiar tragedy in global politics where those who fight oppression sometimes embrace it once power is within reach. But history also remembers the rare leaders who broke this pattern. Foremost among them was Nelson Mandela.
Mandela’s greatness was not only forged during 27 years of imprisonment, but in the grace he displayed upon release. Where vengeance would have been understandable, he chose reconciliation. He transformed power into a tool for healing, not punishment. His creation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and his decision to serve only one presidential term solidified a legacy built on moral restraint and humility. Mandela proved that true leadership is measured not by how fiercely one gains power, but how responsibly one uses it.
Nigeria’s political history, however, tells a more complicated story. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was once celebrated as a champion of democracy a NADECO stalwart who confronted military rule and fought for the restoration of the June 12 mandate. He was known as a voice for justice, a symbol of resistance, and a man who risked everything for a free Nigeria.
READ ALSO: When is the time to talk about Black against Black?, by Osmund Agbo
Today, critics argue that the ethos of that struggle has dimmed. They see an administration increasingly intolerant of dissent, protective of political interests, and reliant on the same instruments of authority once condemned. To many, Nigeria feels as though it is drifting toward a system where power is centralized, opposition is marginalized, and loyalty is rewarded above competence a path that threatens the very democratic ideals once defended at great personal cost.
The contrast with Mandela is striking. Mandela left office willingly, proving that leadership is defined not by the length of rule, but by the legacy left behind. His life remains a reminder that true power lies in restraint, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the people.
As global democracy faces new pressures from rising populism to resurgent authoritarianism Mandela’s example stands as both a guide and a challenge. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous democracy, now confronts its own crossroads. Public trust is eroding, elections face credibility concerns, and institutions expected to safeguard democracy appear increasingly vulnerable.
Yet Mandela’s legacy endures as a light against cynicism. He demonstrated that moral leadership is possible that the struggle for justice does not end when power is won, but begins anew in how that power is wielded.
READ ALSO: Enugu tech bros and Nigeria’s yabacon valley, by Osmund Agbo
Tinubu’s legacy, like that of all leaders, will ultimately be judged by history. Mandela chose to lay down power with dignity and leave a nation better than he met it. His story reminds us that authority without compassion becomes another form of captivity and that the true measure of leadership is the courage not to wear the crown too tightly.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
