The Listening Baba: Why Tinubu Stays Ahead Of Critics With Mischief On Their Minds

The Listening Baba: Why Tinubu Stays Ahead Of Critics With Mischief On Their Minds

Let’s start with a classic fable, “The Man, The Boy, and The Donkey,” as it lays the foundation for today’s discussion.

In this fable, a man and his son are on their way to the market with their donkey. As they walk, they encounter various people who criticize them for how they use the donkey. First, a passerby scolds them for not riding the donkey. So, they put the son on the donkey, but then they are criticized for making the father walk.

Next, they try both riding the donkey, and others call the son lazy for not walking. Eventually, they carry the donkey on a pole, which leads to even more ridicule. As they cross a bridge, the donkey falls into the river and drowns. An old man observes the situation and offers the lesson: “Please all, and you will please none.” The fable teaches that trying to please everyone can lead to unfavorable consequences.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Baba Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He has repeatedly demonstrated his capacity to listen and prioritize the pulse of the people  however like the above fable some may not be pleased with his decisions because of mischief.

Yes I say mischief because the sincerity of purpose is not there , for instance why would some people tell the man and the son to carry the donkey on their head if they are not wicked souls? So sometimes  when you try to please everyone, you often end up pleasing no one.

In an attempt to accommodate the varying opinions and criticisms of others, the man and his son make a series of ill-fated choices that ultimately lead to the loss of their donkey. This fable teaches the valuable lesson that it’s impossible to avoid criticism from everyone, and it’s better to make decisions based on what is right or necessary rather than trying to please everyone.

A recent example of Tinubu’s responsiveness is the appointment of Abubakar Momoh as the Minister of Youth. This decision sparked a public outcry, with concerns that Momoh did not represent the youth. In a swift response, Baba had a rethink and reassigned Momoh to the Ministry of Niger Delta Development, demonstrating his ability to listen and adjust.

It’s possible that Tinubu’s intention in appointing a 25-year-old as the Chairman of the FERMA Board was to cater to the younger generation. However, a significant number of individuals, myself included, raised objections.

We believed that an agency as critical as FERMA required a leader with not only the necessary qualifications and experience but also the respect and acknowledgment of their peers and colleagues. In response to these concerns, the President took appropriate action and rescinded the appointment.

Tinubu has once more demonstrated his attentive approach, and this very article highlights his ability to truly grasp the nation’s sentiment. This marks a significant shift, with a president who is notably responsive to the people’s needs and desires. However, it’s essential to recognize that Tinubu’s leadership will not mirror the missteps of the man, his son, and the donkey by attempting to appease even those who engage in mischief, potentially jeopardizing the nation’s well-being.

Tinubu consistently transcends the criticisms fueled by mischief and remains attuned to the authentic concerns of Nigerians. His track record, since taking office, is evident in his appointments. Today, the youth are presented with ample opportunities, and it’s now their responsibility to meet the expectations of future generations.

An open heart is not an empty head , Tinubu sure knows what to do and has long as he has the listening ears Nigeria would continue to forge on the part of prosperity let us as citizens in turn imbibe the spirit of creativity to adapt to the current challenges we face especially the ones associated with the removal of the fuel subsidy.

Criticism is allowed but mischief is a no no Nigeria belongs to us all and we must property our dignity.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Chairman and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.

Source iReporteronline.