The recent attack on Hon. Kabiru Mikailu, the lawmaker representing Maru South Constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, is a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with public office. The incident, rooted in deep frustration over perceived neglect and disengagement, underscores a fundamental truth about democratic leadership: authority is entrusted by the people, and it carries an obligation to serve.
Constituents in Dansadau expressed dissatisfaction with their representative’s absence from key community events and his lack of engagement with families affected by recurring insecurity. While public office grants the power to lead, it also demands visibility, empathy, and responsiveness. When leaders distance themselves from those who elected them, trust erodes, and the social contract between the people and their representatives is weakened.
Leadership is not a privilege to be enjoyed in isolation; it is a daily commitment to the welfare of others. Elected officials must remain grounded in the realities of their constituencies, listen attentively to concerns, and translate understanding into meaningful action. Even modest, consistent progress, communicated transparently, can strengthen public confidence and prevent frustration from escalating into confrontation.
Accountability is central to effective leadership. Officials who engage consistently, explain challenges honestly, and prioritize the needs of their communities maintain legitimacy. Detachment, indifference, or failure to act corrodes trust and risks public disillusionment. Power is entrusted, not owned, and the true measure of leadership lies in service, not status.
The incident in Dansadau offers a broader lesson for all elected leaders: leadership is earned through action, presence, and integrity. Those chosen to govern or lead must recognize that their mandate is a responsibility, not a reward. Staying close to the people, understanding their struggles, and delivering tangible impact are not optional, they are the essence of democratic governance.
Ultimately, democracy thrives when leaders serve with humility, remain accessible, and honor the trust placed in them. The events in Dansadau serve as a sober reminder that when leaders forget these principles, both public trust and institutional stability are at risk.
Ezenwa Opara is a Media and Public Relations strategist based in Lagos, Nigeria. He can be reached via email at ezenwa.opara@gmail.com
