- Sowore’s Stance: Why he believes naming monuments after oneself is a sign of weakness.
- The Ego Trip: How this practice prioritizes personal legacy over serving the people.
- Tree Power: Sowore’s radical plan to rename monuments after nature if he becomes president.
- Tinubu’s Case: The recent controversy surrounding President Tinubu naming the International Conference Centre after himself.
Sowore Unleashes: Monument Naming is an ‘Imbecilic’ Act
In a no-holds-barred interview on Arise TV, Omoyele Sowore didn’t mince words. He slammed the practice of presidents naming monuments after themselves while still in office. According to Sowore, this isn’t just vain; it’s a clear indicator of insecurity and a desperate attempt to inflate their ego.
“I think that in itself is a sign of insecurity, that the people handling the regime, or the regime itself, is so unsure of itself, it had to be naming monuments after itself when there is nothing happening in the country,” Sowore stated emphatically.
Legacy vs. Governance: What Should Be the Priority?
Sowore argues that this obsession with legacy building is a slap in the face to Nigerians who are struggling. He believes that instead of focusing on self-aggrandizement, the government should prioritize good governance and addressing the pressing needs of the people. Think about it: better roads, reliable electricity, quality education – these are the legacies that truly matter.
A Radical Solution: Renaming Monuments After Trees
Here’s where it gets really interesting. Sowore proposed a rather unconventional solution: if he were to become president, he would rename monuments named after former leaders after trees and rivers. Why? Because, in his view, these natural elements “contribute to our ecological balance” and are more deserving of recognition than politicians who have done little to improve the country.
“If I were to become president of this country, most of the places named after these former Nigerian leaders would be named after trees, and probably rivers in Nigeria… At least they are consistent, and they contribute to our ecological balance. There are people who contribute nothing.”
The Tinubu Factor: ICC Renamed After the President
This debate comes at a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been under scrutiny for renaming the International Conference Centre (ICC) after himself. This move has sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians questioning the appropriateness of such actions. This isn’t the first time, either. Since 2022, about six projects have been named after the President.
The Bigger Picture: A Call for Humility and Service
Sowore’s comments raise important questions about leadership, legacy, and the priorities of those in power. Is naming monuments after oneself a harmless act of self-promotion, or does it reveal a deeper insecurity and a disconnect from the needs of the people? As Nigeria moves forward, these are the conversations we need to be having.
Did you know? The International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja is a major venue for conferences, summits, and events. It plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic activities.
Food for thought: Beyond renaming monuments, what are some other ways leaders can leave a positive and lasting legacy?