Bola Tinubu’s worthy example, By Kofoworola Ogunnaike

I looked forward to the 13th Colloquium in celebration of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s landmark 70th birthday as I did not have the opportunity to attend previous ones.

This year’s celebration is far from ordinary. I knew it will be louder than anyone he’s ever held because of the fever his declaration of interest in the presidency of Nigeria will bring to the celebration. I expected men and women from all walks of life in attendance; Asiwaju is class compliant as he’s able to feel at home with the rich and masses. I pulled all stops to ensure I made it to the event albeit late.

The traffic on the Island right from Osbourne Road gave a hint of the large number of well-wishers that travelled from all over the country to celebrate a man that has booked a date with destiny. I was not surprised at the number of different groups of colorfully dressed women in their gele defying the heat and security scrutiny just to gain access to the Eko Hotel, venue of the event.

I made my way to the lobby to be received by a very respected friend and big brother Ajayi Temitope. The number of media houses known and unknown and media practitioners that I met at the lobby was huge. Everyone wanted to cover the event.

The theme song of the event welcomed me to the jam packed but star-studded hall; ‘on your mandate we shall stand!’ Like a typical owambe, guests were swinging their bodies softly to the music from the band. Hardly had I sat when the big masquerade walked into the hall, flanked by his wife and close associates. The room erupted into a jubilant shout as he made his way to his seat. The national anthem was taken and we all settled in anticipation of the unfolding of the event.

Suddenly, Asiwaju stood up and walked out of the hall, accompanied by his associates. Egbon Remi Adelowo who was seated beside me said something was wrong and I agreed.

Asiwaju came back into the hall, looking very disturbed. He took the podium and announced he had just been informed that the train was attacked in Kaduna and people died. He said as an elder statesman, he can’t continue to party while families are mourning their loved ones and wondering what’s happening to the kidnapped ones. He declared the party over. He prayed for peace, called on the clergies, Christian and Muslim to pray for the peace of Nigeria and repose for the dead.

The announcement was received with different emotions. For some, the party mood they came with received a baptism of cold water. For me, it was another example of the sacrifice Asiwaju is willing to make for a greater nation. He showed empathy, love and a heart that’s ready to tread difficult terrains to achieve a common good. It shows a selfless leader who can practice delayed gratification and such character is rare among leaders of this great nation where political leaders will rather mount ridges under them than give others the opportunity.

This is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs; one who can practice restraint and is measured in emotional intelligence.