The North has a deficit of true leaders that are both bold enough to take actions & /or sincere in leading the region out of her present predicament. Some see every opportunity to enrich themselves & talk down on the region. Some don't actually realise the position of leadership.
So long as they are not ready to put their words into action, they will be seen by millions of us as what they truly are, noise making men & women. Leadership is more or less a process of social influence”, where a person can enlist the aid, co-operation and support of others
others so as to accomplish a common goal. It is thus, a process of influencing & supporting others to work enthusiastically toward achieving objectives of a community. In Islaam, leadership is a vast concept, which covers so many aspects of the people. It is a trust (Amanah),
given to a person or a group to guide & lead the followers, the humanity from the brink of destruction to the way of Allah. Ibn Khaldun in his book "Muqaddimah", gave a distinctive view of leadership, as “ an outcome of interaction between different social groups.”
Although there exist so many differences btw the Islamic leadership & the conventional leadership, the basic rudiments of leadership must be available in both dogmas. Taqwa (piety, sincerity), justice, patience, trusteeship, accountability, knowledge & wisdom & sacrifice are key.
Naturally, when a leader becomes selfish, self enriching & the detriment of his followers welfare, he ll lose the respect of his people. What more if all you do is talk & ridicule the same people while you ve so many you can do? You ll never enjoy their loyalty nor support.
In stead of discipline, there will be chaos & disorder. Islam stress on this very point to set up example by own works and sacrifice, so that the people can rely on him & make even greater sacrifice for their betterment. Allah says:
"O you who are divinely committed!
"O you who are divinely committed!
say that which you do not practice yourself? The worst of you in the sight of Allah is he who says that which he does not practice."
Apart from these qualities, a good leader, has to achieve other virtues. Sincerity to works, respect to the suggestion of followers, etc.
Apart from these qualities, a good leader, has to achieve other virtues. Sincerity to works, respect to the suggestion of followers, etc.
No doubt, the greatest challenge we face today, especially in Northern Nigeria is the lack of such a useful leadership. The absence of such sincere stewardship & having our affairs solely in the hands of selfish people that do not know their roles as leaders.
