…Urges leaders to shun sycophancy
Retired Colonel Abubakar D. Umar has dedicated his newly conferred Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) National Honour to the many unnamed officers and men who, like him, played key roles in the struggle to validate the June 12, 1993 presidential election and affirm Chief MKO Abiola’s mandate.
In a statement issued at the weekend, Col. Umar revealed that when President Bola Tinubu personally informed him of the award, his first reaction was to question why only he was being recognised while numerous others who risked their careers and lives for Nigeria’s democracy remained anonymous.
“I therefore accept this award with all sense of humility on behalf of all these officers and men,” Umar stated, listing over 30 military officers, including high-profile figures such as Major Saad Abubakar, the current Sultan of Sokoto, and Lt.-Col. Yahaya Abubakar, the current Etsu Nupe.
Col Umar noted that while his leadership role in the pro-democracy movement within the military was visible, his contribution “was by no means bigger than theirs.” He emphasised that many more who participated have remained unknown and prayed that God would recognise and reward their sacrifices.
Highlighting the decisive support the Armed Forces gave Chief Abiola – who he said won over 80% of military votes – Umar stressed that the true value of the democracy they fought for would only be realised if it delivers genuine dividends for the people.
He urged Nigeria’s leaders to govern with the fear of God, uphold democratic principles, and prioritise good governance over self-serving politics. He warned against growing sycophancy, describing it as the “scourge of selfless and accountable leadership” that has bred “arrogance and vanity” among leaders.
Taking aim at the trend of excessive praise and premature immortalisation of leaders, Umar criticised the renaming of public institutions after serving presidents and governors. He cited a recent remark by the Senate President predicting that President Tinubu would win the 2027 election with 99.9% of the votes, advising the President to reject such “humorous incitement.”
Col. Umar concluded by reaffirming his faith in Nigeria’s democracy and called on the three arms of government to remain independent yet cooperative to secure the country’s progress.
“God bless Nigeria,” he signed off.
