Power Must Serve The People, Not Intoxicate Leaders — Yaks
Political scientist and media guru, Yakubu “Yaks” Braimah, has cautioned leaders against allowing power to corrupt their judgment and disconnect them from the people they are entrusted to serve.
Yaks, a graduate of Politics from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), gave the warning in a thought-provoking reflection titled “Power Intoxicates,” in which he examined the responsibilities and temptations that come with positions of authority.
He noted that power could either be used as an instrument for positive change or abused by individuals who become carried away by titles, privileges, and public applause.
“Power is sweet. But power without conscience is poison,” he stated.
According to him, responsible leaders remember that they were lifted by the people and therefore use their positions to build schools, hospitals, and roads, create opportunities, and give hope to citizens.
He, however, warned that some leaders become “masters” after attaining power, using their positions to oppress others, enrich themselves, and silence dissent.
Yaks described this as “power intoxication,” saying it happens when power goes to the head and wisdom leaves the heart.
He stressed that the true test of leadership is not how much a person desires power, but what the person does with it after attaining it.
“True leadership is power under control. Power that builds, not destroys. Power that lifts, not crushes. Power that serves, not enslaves,” he said.
The political scientist and media guru, who is also actively involved in public affairs and political discourse online, said the issue of responsible leadership goes beyond politics. He noted that the abuse of authority could also occur in business, workplaces, and families.
He urged those in positions of authority to remember that power is temporary and should be used to leave a positive impact on the people.
“The same power that makes you today can break you tomorrow,” Yaks cautioned.
He, therefore, called on leaders to resist the temptation of becoming intoxicated by power and instead allow authority to strengthen their character, wisdom, and commitment to service.
“Let us not be intoxicated by power. Let power refine us,” he said.
