Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule criticised the behaviour of politicians who surrounded former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing them as sycophants. Speaking at the 2nd Raymond Dokpesi Diamond Lecture organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in Abuja, Governor Sule recounted how he had witnessed politicians lavish praise on Buhari while he was in office, only to denounce him after he left power. He noted that the same individuals would call Buhari “the best leader” during his tenure, then later claim he was “one of the worst presidents the country has seen,” calling this a classic example of sycophancy.
The lecture honoured the late media mogul Chief Raymond Dokpesi, who founded Nigeria’s first private radio and television stations during the military era. Governor Sule praised Dokpesi’s courage in establishing those outlets at a time when the government controlled nearly every aspect of public life. He lauded Dokpesi for speaking truth to power even in difficult times, describing him as an icon of the media.
Sule’s comments highlight the challenges of leadership in Nigeria, where politicians often receive both criticism and flattery. The legacy of former President Buhari remains contested, with some praising his reform efforts and others criticizing his handling of key issues. The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations’ event provided a platform to reflect on the role of media and leadership in shaping the country’s narrative. By acknowledging the prevalence of sycophancy, Governor Sule underscored the need for honest, constructive criticism and genuine engagement in Nigeria’s political process, reminding the nation of the importance of integrity and accountability in leadership.
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