Most times those who work closely with politicians are the real problem. Your aides and PAs are gatekeepers who can build a wall between you and the people. A message to every political leader to audit their circle before 2027.
_To Politicians: Check the People Closest to You_
_Written by: Comr. Alozie James-patrick_
"Most of the time those who work closely with the politicians are the problem we have."
That line is bitter, but it's worth hearing. Because history shows it again and again: a good leader with a bad circle will still fail.
Your aides, SAs, PAs, and "boys" are the gatekeepers. They decide who sees you, what you hear, and what the public believes about you. In many cases, they don't protect your vision. They protect their pockets.
*3 ways your close circle becomes your biggest problem:*
*1. They build a wall between you and the people*
They'll tell you "Oga is busy" when a widow needs help. They'll filter feedback until only praise reaches you. By the time you know the truth, the damage is done. A leader who only hears "yes sir" will make bad decisions.
*2. They trade your name for money*
Some will collect money to give someone access to you. Some will promise contracts in your name. Some will insult and intimidate people "on your behalf." When it blows up, it's your face on the poster, not theirs. Your reputation becomes their ATM.
*3. They confuse loyalty with sycophancy*
Loyal people tell you the truth, even when it hurts. Sycophants clap for every idea. They'll cheer you into a ditch. You don't need 50 people saying "You're right." You need 2 people bold enough to say "Oga, this one will backfire."
*Dear Politician, here's my advice:*
*1. Audit your circle regularly*
Not everyone smiling with you is for you. Watch actions, not words. Who corrects you? Who brings you bad news fast? Who leaves the room when money for the people is missing? Keep those ones close.
*2. Create direct channels to the grassroots*
Don't let your PA be your only source of information. Visit wards unannounced. Talk to market women, Keke riders, students. When you hear from the people directly, your aides can't lie to you easily.
*3. Punish betrayal publicly, reward honesty privately*
If an aide uses your name to extort, sack them and make it known. If another tells you a hard truth that saves you shame, honor them. Your team will learn fast what behavior you tolerate.
*4. Remember: you'll answer for their actions*
The people don't know your Chief of Staff. They know "the government of Hon. ___." When your aide misbehaves, your name carries the stain. Choose people as if your legacy depends on it — because it does.
Sir/Ma, power tests character. But it also tests the company you keep. You can have good intentions, but with the wrong circle, those intentions will never reach the people.
Build with character, not by color-change. And character starts with the people you allow to stand closest to you.
*Your team should be a bridge to the people, not a barrier.*
