Leadership, followership and socio-political development in post-independence Nigeria

Abstract

In this study set against the background of political crises and general underdevelopment in Nigeria,
leaders and followers are conceived as collaborators in the degradation of the social polity. Selfishness,
corruption and ineptitude on the part of the leaders as well as ignorance, timidity; and, ‘false
consciousness’ on the part of the followers which makes them to seek accommodation under any type of
government, were discussed. We feel it will amount to mere wishful thinking to expect tangible
development under this stifling situation. We noted that increasing political awareness fostered by the
press, social media, trade unions and Non-Governmental organizations would soon open the eyes of the
followers to work for the enthronement of responsible and committed leadership.