Opinion: The Burden of Sycophancy in Yakurr Politics

By Chief Okoi Obono-Obla

Yakurr has become synonymous with political sycophancy. During the last general election, certain self-appointed leaders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yakurr Local Government Area siphoned nearly 40% of the funds allocated for party agents and election contingencies. When the issue was brought to the attention of a senior party leader, he convened a meeting in Calabar with selected stakeholders from Yakurr to discuss the matter. However, those responsible were unable to account for the missing 29.6 million naira. Shocked by the blatant mismanagement, the convener remarked that had this happened in his local government area, those involved would have faced severe consequences.

This toxic political culture has long hindered Yakurr’s progress. Leadership is not earned through competence but bestowed upon individuals the moment they secure an election or appointment. Overnight, they become revered authorities, unquestionable and omnipotent, while others eagerly gather around them, desperate for favor. This pattern has persisted since 1999, obstructing genuine political direction and development.

A select few continuously position themselves as perpetual aides to every Yakurr leader, leveraging their proximity to power for personal gain. These individuals thrive on manipulation, ensuring they remain indispensable to successive administrations while stifling new voices and ideas. Their influence is often destructive, as they work their way into the minds and hearts of elected officials, steering them away from meaningful governance toward self-serving agendas.

Conclusion:
Until Yakurr breaks free from this entrenched culture of sycophancy, true leadership and progress will remain elusive. Genuine political representation must prioritize the welfare of the people over self-enrichment, fostering an environment where accountability and integrity can thrive. Without this shift, Yakurr’s political landscape will remain a playground for opportunists rather than a platform for meaningful development.