Egbe bere, Ugo bere: Let our best brains emerge

POINTBLANK with Smart Emmanuel
09066642354

As the 2027 general elections gradually approach, Nigeria’s political landscape is once again coming alive with consultations, alignments, declarations of interest, and the inevitable contest of ideas.

Across communities, states, and the nation at large, aspirants are beginning to signal their intentions to seek one public office or another. This is a natural feature of every democratic society.

Democracy thrives when citizens actively participate in shaping leadership, and the willingness of individuals to offer themselves for public service is, in itself, a testament to the vitality of the democratic process.

However, alongside these early political activities has come a familiar pattern, sharp criticisms, political banters, and in some cases, sponsored media attacks aimed at discrediting both new aspirants and current office holders.

While political competition is essential to democracy, the manner in which it is conducted often determines whether the process strengthens institutions or weakens them. It is therefore important, at this early stage of the electoral cycle, to remind ourselves of a simple but powerful principle: leadership contests should be driven by ideas, competence, and vision, not by the destruction of reputations.

The Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to aspire to public office, provided such an individual meets the legal requirements. This right is fundamental to democratic participation. No citizen should be discouraged from seeking office through intimidation, mockery, or coordinated propaganda.

Likewise, aspirants themselves must resist the temptation to build their political campaigns solely on the condemnation of incumbents. While constructive criticism of government performance is necessary, deliberately presenting every sitting office holder as an outright failure to gain cheap political sympathy diminishes the seriousness of political engagement.

True leadership contests should not be about who shouts the loudest or who controls the most aggressive media machinery. Rather, they should be about who possesses the most thoughtful ideas, the clearest vision, and the most practical solutions to the pressing problems confronting our society.

Voters, on their part, must cultivate the discipline of looking beyond emotional narratives and sponsored attacks. Elections should not be decided by anger, sentiment, or manipulation, but by careful evaluation of competence, integrity, and capacity.

Our elders captured this wisdom perfectly in the Igbo proverb: “Anya ka eji ama oka chara acha, mana ntupe ya bu agu.” In simple terms, while one may identify a ripe corn merely by looking at it, opening it hurriedly without proper examination may reveal disappointment.

The proverb reminds us that appearances can be deceptive. In politics, as in life, what seems attractive at first glance may not always be the most beneficial choice. Therefore, our people must learn to examine aspirants carefully, not only by their words but by their track records, their understanding of governance, and the feasibility of the initiatives they propose.

This is where the guiding philosophy of “Egbe bere, Ugo bere” becomes particularly relevant. Popularized in Igbo political philosophy, the phrase literally means “Let the kite perch and let the eagle perch.” It symbolizes fairness, balance, and inclusiveness in leadership.

The wisdom behind the proverb teaches that society prospers when opportunities are open and when competition is conducted in a manner that allows the best among us to emerge through merit rather than manipulation.

Nigeria today faces complex and multidimensional challenges. Our education sector requires far-reaching reforms to restore quality and relevance. Our healthcare system must be strengthened to ensure accessibility and affordability for ordinary citizens. Youth unemployment remains a major concern, demanding innovative policies that promote entrepreneurship, industrial growth, and job creation.

Women’s empowerment must move beyond rhetoric to deliberate policies that expand opportunities for leadership, business, and professional advancement.

Beyond these areas, the question of security continues to demand urgent attention. Communities across our nation seek leaders who can support the development of effective security frameworks while also addressing the root causes of instability.

Economic revitalization is another priority, particularly the need to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Policies that simplify regulations, encourage investment, and support local industries are essential for sustainable economic growth.

These realities highlight why the upcoming elections must be approached with a sense of responsibility. Leadership in the twenty-first century requires more than political popularity; it demands intellectual capacity, administrative competence, and moral credibility. Nigeria cannot afford leadership that is driven solely by personal ambition or political opportunism. What the nation requires are individuals with a deep understanding of governance and a genuine commitment to public service.

Therefore, as political activities intensify in the months ahead, Nigerians must begin to ask fundamental questions. Who among the aspirants has a clear and achievable plan for improving education? Who has demonstrated commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery? Who understands the economic policies required to stimulate industrialization and support small businesses? Who possesses the courage and discipline to confront corruption and inefficiency within public institutions?

Equally important is the question of legislative representation. Those aspiring to legislative offices must remember that lawmaking goes beyond occupying seats in parliamentary chambers. Effective legislators must be capable of crafting laws that address societal needs, engaging meaningfully in debates, and performing rigorous oversight of the executive arm of government. Oversight functions are not ceremonial duties; they are constitutional responsibilities that ensure transparency and accountability in governance.

We must therefore prioritize competence over sentiment. Representation should not be reduced to mere symbolism or popularity contests. Those we sent to legislative assemblies must possess the intellectual depth to analyze policies, the courage to speak for their constituents, and the discipline to uphold democratic principles.

In this spirit, the message must resonate across every community and political constituency. However, my Okigwe North must allow its best brains to emerge. Okigwe South must allow its best brains to emerge. Imo North must allow its best brains to emerge. Imo State as a whole must allow its best brains to emerge. And indeed, Nigeria must allow its best brains to emerge.

When leadership selection is guided by competence rather than manipulation, our society moves closer to stability and progress. When we insist on quality leadership, politicians are compelled to elevate the standard of their campaigns and governance. And when institutions are strengthened through responsible leadership, the nation becomes more capable of addressing its challenges.

Ultimately, democracy works best when the people and leaders alike commit themselves to the pursuit of excellence. The future of Nigeria cannot be built on bitterness, propaganda, or divisive politics. It must be built on ideas, integrity, and the willingness to place national interest above personal ambition.

As the 2027 elections draw nearer, let the guiding principle remain clear: Egbe bere, Ugo bere. Let every qualified citizen have the opportunity to contest. Let every aspirant present ideas rather than insults. And above all, let our best brains emerge, so that Nigeria may finally build the working, responsive, and prosperous society its people deserve.