The Wike Way: When decorum takes a back seat in Nigerian politics – A rejoinder, by Engr. Bello Gwarzo Abdullahi, FNSE
The topsy-turvy nature of our current political landscape renders it exceedingly challenging to ascertain a suitable starting point.
Various principles that traditionally guide appropriate conduct have been sacrificed at the altar of political expediency in the realm of Nigerian politics.
This piece aims to serve as a rejoinder to the seminal discourse presented by Dr. Emman Usman Shehu, titled “The Wike Way: When Decorum Takes a Back Seat in Nigerian Politics.”Doubtless, the concept of decorum is frequently relegated to the periphery, overshadowed by the dynamics of power struggles and political maneuvering.
Being abrasive, eccentric, and controversial, Nyesom Wike epitomises this narrative due to his style of governance, which is characterized by a readiness to assume the role of a spoiler.
His outspoken demeanor and confrontational tactics have garnered him both ardent supporters and vehement detractors, further igniting fiery debates regarding his role, which has been fully exploited by the ruling party in decimating the PDP and engendering intractable problems for the main opposition party, rendering it a mere shadow of its former self. It is noteworthy that in the broader context of Nigerian governance, Wike’s approach serves as a microcosm of the larger issues at play—the delicate equilibrium between power and responsibility, between assertiveness and diplomacy.
While some may regard his methods as unconventional or even abrasive, others perceive them as a necessary countermeasure to the entrenched systems of corruption and inefficiency that afflict the nation.
In his treatise, Dr. Shehu emphasized several critical points: The Unconventional Leadership Style of Nyesom Wike symbolises the prioritization of assertiveness over traditional decorum and propriety. His confrontational approach has drawn scrutiny from critics due to displays of aggressive behaviour and disrespectful actions—such as launching political attacks in religious venues—which challenge societal norms and undermine the dignity of the office he occupies.
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Wike’s governance style has been criticized for its centralisation, unilateral decision-making, and lack of broad consultation, which engenders social disruption and alienation rather than unity, reflecting a disregard for established protocols and creating tensions that erode public trust and the expected conduct of a public servant.
Wike’s statements regarding betrayal in politics and allegations of inconsistency in his actions raise significant concerns about his commitment to ethical conduct and the principles of public service.
Reports of dubious land transactions, favouritism towards political allies, and a dismissive attitude towards warnings underscore a lack of ethical decorum and accountability that further diminishes public confidence in his leadership.
Wike’s leadership style sets a precarious precedent for confrontational politics at the expense of statesmanship, potentially normalizing disrespectful behaviour and undermining trust in institutions essential for societal progress.
His case highlights the critical importance of decorum in public office and raises profound questions about the balance between political will and ethical leadership in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, with opposition forces refining their strategies in light of the ruling party’s dismal performance, the issues of decorum, respect, and a steadfast commitment to transforming the country economically, socially, and politically should be of paramount importance. In this context, decorum must not be sacrificed at the altar of ambition.
bgabdullahi@gmail.com
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