Dear Leaders,
History has repeatedly shown us the dangers of surrounding oneself with sycophants—those who flatter, deceive, and mislead for their selfish interests. These individuals, driven by personal gain, often pave the path to ruin, leading leaders to early graves, both figuratively and literally. It is imperative for those in power to discern genuine counsel from empty praise.
Sycophants thrive on feeding your ego while shielding you from the harsh truths of reality. They will hail your smallest efforts as monumental achievements while the real issues of governance go unattended. Such deception may bring temporary comfort, but it erodes trust, weakens leadership, and ultimately damages your legacy.
Instead, I urge you to embrace the principles of good governance—transparency, accountability, and a commitment to serving the people. True leadership is not about amassing wealth or clinging to power; it is about leaving an indelible mark through impactful policies and developmental strides that stand the test of time.
Be deliberate in building a legacy that future generations will honor. Surround yourself with individuals who speak the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Listen to constructive criticism and engage with those who challenge you to do better. Remember, history does not forget leaders who prioritized the welfare of their people over selfish interests.
This generation and those to come need leaders who will rise above personal ambition to set a standard of excellence. Let your tenure be remembered as a time of growth, equity, and sustainability. Avoid the fleeting allure of sycophants, and instead, champion good governance for the sake of humanity.
The choice is yours—lead with vision, integrity, and purpose, or succumb to the empty praises of sycophants that lead only to regret. May wisdom guide your decisions.
By Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi
