In a strong message directed at public office holders across the country, Chief Mascot Uzor-Kalu has cautioned that leadership loses its meaning when it does not translate into genuine improvement in the lives of the people.
The Abia 2027 governorship aspirant made the remarks while addressing a gathering of civic groups and community leaders in Aba, Abia State, stressing that political office should be treated as a platform for service, not personal gain.
Mascot Uzor-Kalu, a businessman turned politician, said Nigeria’s democracy will continue to struggle unless leaders embrace a mindset that places citizens at the heart of governance. He explained that poverty, unemployment, failing infrastructure, and inequality are challenges that require sincerity, commitment, and compassion from those entrusted with power. According to him, the measure of a successful leader is not the position occupied but the positive change created in society.
“We must remind ourselves that public office is not a trophy,” Mascot said. “If we cannot improve lives, we have failed. Every policy, every programme, every decision must reflect a concern for the people’s wellbeing. Anything short of that is a betrayal of the mandate we carry.”
He further criticised the tendency of some leaders to prioritise political survival over meaningful governance, noting that such attitudes weaken institutions and stall development. He insisted that governments must adopt a more humane and accountable leadership approach if Nigeria is to unlock its full potential.
“Leadership should never be about personal comfort,” he stressed. “It should be about solving problems and building a better future for ordinary citizens. Our people deserve leaders who care, leaders who listen, and leaders who deliver.”
Mascot Uzor-Kalu also outlined what he described as his philosophy of service, which centres on transparency, people oriented policies, and measurable impact. He noted that Abia’s development challenges require urgent reforms in public sector efficiency, infrastructure renewal, and youth economic empowerment.
“I believe strongly that governance must be practical,” he noted. “In Abia, we need to fix institutions, modernise our economy, and open new opportunities for our young people. These are not ambitions. They are necessities.”
The former Chief of Staff emphasised that leaders cannot continue to make excuses while citizens suffer under the weight of hardship. He argued that effective governance begins with compassion and an understanding of the daily struggles of the electorate.
“When a leader understands the pain of the people, policymaking becomes more responsible,” he added. “There is no reason any community should lack water, functional schools, or proper healthcare in 2025. These are basic expectations.”
Community groups and civic leaders present, acknowledged Mascot Uzor-Kalu’s stance as timely, particularly at a moment when Nigerians increasingly demand accountability from those in power. Many praised him for speaking boldly and consistently on leadership values, describing his message as a reminder of what governance should represent.
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