By Abdul Mohammed Lawal.
Leadership is a heavy burden, and its success often depends not just on the leader but also on the people they trust to help carry out their vision. As I have always said, the Distinguished Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho is like a sweet wine that, when you get the chance to taste it, you might not want anyone, even the closest person, to experience it. But anything too good is never meant for just one person or a few people.
Like every good soul, he has not been blessed with the most selfless and best minds around him over time. Sadly, the senator’s good work is being undermined by those around him. Many of his aides, instead of supporting his efforts, seem more focused on their own interests, and he doesn’t know this because his pure spirit is overly trusting. Their actions have created barriers, limiting the reach of his good deeds and distorting public perception of his intentions.
It was somewhat contained when he was a shining star in the banking world, and everything he did for Kogites was philanthropic, but it became more challenging when he occupied elected public office as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Senator Echocho’s trusting nature has been exploited, allowing his aides to act in ways that damage his image. I have had firsthand experience with this man and the unending sabotage around him, and I can attest to the differences between him and the faces that project his legislative initiatives. This piece is necessary to understand that the pictures of good and bad that are painted might be true or false, but the man, Echocho, is a golden fish.
Let me take us back a bit. I was in my senior secondary school during the glory days when Senator Echocho was celebrated as the pride of Kogi State, who was among the faces leading the digital evolution of the Nigerian banking system. It was a beautiful time to be a banker and an Igala because Echocho’s deeds would rub off on you, and you would be valued even in your average position.
At that time, the only assurance you needed to get a job in any financial institution was being a Kogite and getting a chance to call or visit his office. He would tell you to go to a branch for an interview, even without knowing you or what you looked like, and you would be amazed when he followed up and called those branches before you arrived.
He was also one of the biggest philanthropists Kogi knew at that time, giving without knowing who his beneficiaries were. He always trusted the people around him to do a good job, but I had my first not-so-good experience with the so-called team then. In my SS3, information spread across Igalaland about a scholarship initiative that would have seen the best students from the top secondary schools in Kogi East get the chance to study at universities around the globe.
Information available to us said that the bank MD, Jibrin Isah Echocho, had already paid for everything required for the processes from selection to application and enrolment. Luckily, my school was selected, and I was chosen as one of the supposed beneficiaries, but the power play and financial misappropriation of the team that handled it prevented it from materialising. God bless him for even conceptualising such an initiative.
Fast forward to 2019 and beyond, and the story of the sabotage around him has grown even more and the good man doesn’t deserve the treatment he gets from his aides. These individuals who should act as bridges between the senator and his constituents have instead become barriers, exploiting his goodwill and taking advantage of his trusting nature.
Whether anyone chooses to argue it or not, Echocho has emerged as the most impactful leader Kogi East has ever sent to the Senate. A lot has been achieved, and one can only wonder how much more would have been accomplished without the sabotage around him. His tenure has focused on empowering Kogi East through initiatives in human development, MSME support, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and legislative advocacy.
From the building and renovation of schools, scholarships and financial aid, and the provision of reading and writing materials, the senator has lifted the burden of education costs. Through projects to provide road networks, his efforts have opened up remote areas, improving access to essential services. In healthcare, he has constructed facilities, supplied medical equipment, and organised health outreach programmes, bringing life-saving support to countless families.
Youth empowerment and MSME support have been other priorities. Through numerous entrepreneurial initiatives, vocational training, distribution of equipment, and financial aid for start-ups, Echocho is continually empowering the youth of Kogi East and investing in a brighter future for the region. It has been a beautiful time to be a Kogi Easterner.
At the national level, Senator Echocho has championed legislative bills and motions addressing critical issues. Yet, these accomplishments have had their trying times of competing for visibility with the actions of his aides, whose misconduct seek to undermine the senator’s work and reputation.
One major issue is the selfishness of some aides, who prioritise their own interests over the senator’s vision for Kogi East. They often act as gatekeepers, limiting access to the senator and creating a false impression of exclusivity. This has alienated many constituents who genuinely seek his assistance, leaving them frustrated and disillusioned. But, what do they stand to benefit from this?
Some aides act as though they are the “real senator,” misusing resources and influence for personal gain. Their actions have tarnished the senator’s reputation in many ways and created confusion and resentment among various people or groups. We may watch from afar, but we know Echocho and who he is; so, what are these guys looking for?
The lack of professionalism displayed by some aides has also led to poor communication and execution of the senator’s projects. Promises made in good faith are strategically delayed or poorly delivered, leaving constituents to question the senator’s sincerity. In many cases, the blame falls on Senator Echocho, even when he is unaware of the misconduct happening around him. Are you for or against the man you call your principal?
Instead of amplifying his efforts, these aides are creating a false narrative that threatens to overshadow his many accomplishments. But should we fold our arms and watch them do this? Congratulations to all of you, he now knows your modus operandi.
The public often judges leaders by the conduct of their representatives. When aides act arrogantly or selfishly, the blame falls on the leader, even if they are unaware of such behaviour. For Senator Echocho, this has created a perception of distance and selectivity, despite his commitment to serving all his people. For the record, why are you scared when people get close to your boss?
The Distinguished Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho deserves to be celebrated for his achievements, not misjudged due to the actions of those around him. But in all you do, don’t forget that Echocho belongs to all of us, and we know the man we stand by.
To Senator Echocho, this is a call to reassess the conduct and effectiveness of your team. Surround yourself with individuals who share your vision and are committed to the betterment of Kogi East. Establish structures that promote accountability and direct engagement with your constituents. But let me assure you that they will still develop hatred for anyone you try to bring close and will try their best to undermine the good in them.
To the people of Kogi East, judge leadership fairly. Separate the actions of a few selfish individuals from the dedication of a leader who has consistently delivered on his promises. Get closer and know Echocho and not crucify him with the flaws of those who exploit his kindness.
As his constituents, aides, and observers, let us come together to ensure that his work is not overshadowed by the shortcomings of others.
Kogi East deserves the best, and with collective effort, the senator’s dream for a better constituency can be realised. Let us all play our part in making that vision a reality.