Ex-Minister Essien: 70-Year-Olds Should Serve as Advisors, Not Leaders in Government

 

Chief Nduese Essien, a former Minister of Lands and Housing and a political leader in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, believes Nigeria's economic challenges and governance issues are largely due to the leadership of older individuals who may lack the necessary mental and physical capacities to effectively address current issues.

 

During a press briefing on Wednesday, Chief Essien emphasized that older individuals should not be central figures in governance but should instead offer their wisdom in advisory roles. He criticized the widespread impunity, corruption, and resource mismanagement among political leaders, attributing these problems to the decline in economic stability in Nigeria.

 

"At 70, one's mental and physical capacities are not what they used to be," Chief Essien remarked. "Such individuals should step aside from central governance roles and offer advice from the sidelines. In today's computer age, younger generations dominate, making it unacceptable and intolerable for someone over 70 to insist on leading."

 

He further explained that the nation's difficulties stem from having governments led by elderly individuals. "After 70, one should not aim to provide active and effective leadership. Instead, a younger, more dynamic person should take the reins while older individuals serve as advisors."

 

Chief Essien also pointed out that political positions often serve as compensatory roles, which can result in leaders lacking the necessary drive to perform effectively. He urged his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to rejuvenate and strategize to effectively challenge the ruling party.

 

"With recent developments, we are facing a situation that resembles a one-party system, which is not suitable for a country as diverse as Nigeria," Chief Essien said. He advised the PDP to strengthen its efforts and not underestimate the potential impact of a third-party force rising to prominence.

 

Reflecting on the 2023 elections, he noted, "We nearly saw an unknown third force take over the government. Many people disillusioned with both the ruling and opposition parties are now ready to support this third force, posing a threat to the established parties."

 

Chief Essien also appealed to the people of Akwa Ibom to give Governor Umo Eno the space to focus on fulfilling his mandate rather than being preoccupied with securing a second term. He stressed that a second term should be earned based on the performance of the first term.

 

"A second term should be a reward for good performance in the first four years. It's too early to start campaigning for Governor Umo Eno's second term. Let's allow him to concentrate on his current responsibilities and deliver results," he concluded.