BY: Sani Abdullahi Kofar-mata
In politics, criticism is an unavoidable reality. Every great leader—past and present—has faced opposition, resistance, and public scrutiny. However, the wise politician understands that criticism is not necessarily a sign of failure but rather a sign of relevance. What truly matters is not what people are saying but the fact that they are talking. Silence is far more dangerous than criticism. A politician who is never criticized is either irrelevant or has failed to make a meaningful impact.
The ability to turn criticism into an opportunity is what distinguishes great leaders from ordinary politicians. The most successful politicians in history have been those who faced relentless attacks but transformed them into fuel for their political journeys. They recognized that being talked about—even negatively—keeps them in the public eye, strengthens their resilience, and ultimately builds their legacy.
CRITICISM: A LADDER TO POLITICAL GREATNESS
Sir Ahmadu Bello: The Sardauna of Sokoto
Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, was one of Nigeria’s most influential political leaders. His leadership in Northern Nigeria was met with fierce criticism. Many accused him of being too focused on the North’s development, while others viewed his traditionalist stance as rigid and resistant to change. Yet, he remained steadfast in his mission to modernize the North while preserving its cultural values. His critics were loud, but history remembers him as a visionary leader who laid the foundation for Northern Nigeria’s political and economic progress. His legacy continues to shape the region today.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo: The Political Strategist
Chief Obafemi Awolowo revolutionized governance in Western Nigeria, introducing free education and infrastructural development that set the region apart. Despite his achievements, he was heavily criticized, accused of being too radical, and even imprisoned by political rivals. However, he never allowed criticism to break him. Instead, he used it as an opportunity to reinforce his policies and refine his leadership approach. Awolowo understood that history would judge him by his deeds, not by the opinions of his critics. Today, he is remembered as one of Nigeria’s greatest political minds, proving that criticism, when handled wisely, can strengthen a leader’s legacy.
Mallam Aminu Kano: The Voice of the Oppressed
Mallam Aminu Kano was a political rebel who challenged the feudal system in Northern Nigeria. His radical stance earned him fierce opposition from the ruling elite, who saw him as a disruptor. However, instead of succumbing to the pressure, he used criticism as a platform to amplify his message of social justice and equality. Over time, his ideas gained widespread support, and today, he is remembered as a champion of the common people whose vision continues to inspire political movements across Nigeria. His critics once saw him as a troublemaker, but history now recognizes him as a courageous reformer.
Nelson Mandela: From Prisoner to President
Nelson Mandela, the global icon of peace and reconciliation, faced decades of criticism and persecution. Branded a terrorist and imprisoned for 27 years, he endured relentless attacks from those who opposed his fight against apartheid. Yet, he never responded with hatred or bitterness. Instead, he used his time in prison to refine his vision for a democratic South Africa. When he was finally released, he transformed himself into a symbol of unity and forgiveness, leading his country to freedom. His critics once called him a threat, but today, he is celebrated as one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century.
Abraham Lincoln: A Leader Forged by Criticism
Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most revered presidents, faced extreme criticism throughout his political career. He lost multiple elections before finally becoming president, and even then, he was ridiculed for his appearance, his leadership style, and his policies. His decision to abolish slavery made him one of the most hated men in the country at the time. However, he remained committed in his convictions, believing that history would judge him fairly. Today, Lincoln is remembered not for the insults thrown at him but for his role in preserving the Union and ending slavery.
TURNING CRITICISM INTO OPPORTUNITY
A wise politician does not see criticism as a personal attack but as an opportunity for growth and visibility. Criticism ensures that a politician’s name remains in public discourse. In today’s political landscape, where media exposure determines influence, even negative publicity keeps a leader relevant.
As the saying goes, “There is no such thing as bad publicity.” Voters often remember familiar names at the ballot box, even when they have forgotten the details of the criticism. This is why seasoned politicians do not run from controversy; they use it strategically to strengthen their public image.
Moreover, criticism provides a platform to clarify one’s vision, refine one’s message, and build resilience. Instead of reacting with anger, the wise politician remains composed, turning every attack into an opportunity to engage with the public, correct misconceptions, and win new supporters. Politics is a battlefield of ideas, and every criticism is an invitation to prove one’s worth.
THE ART OF RESPONDING TO CRITICISM
How a politician handles criticism determines whether it becomes a weapon of destruction or a tool for empowerment. The best politicians do not engage in unnecessary arguments; they respond with wisdom, strategy, and confidence.
As Theodore Roosevelt famously said: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.”
A politician who reacts emotionally to criticism weakens himself, while one who remains calm and strategic gains respect. A great leader does not spend time fighting every negative remark—he focuses on his goals and lets his achievements speak for him.
A well-known African proverb states: “A lion does not turn around when a small dog barks.” The wise politician knows that criticism is part of leadership and remains focused on his mission rather than being distracted by detractors.
CONCLUSION
Criticism is not a sign of failure—it is a sign of relevance. The politician who is discussed, debated, and even attacked is one who matters. History does not remember the insults thrown at great leaders; it remembers their resilience, their vision, and their impact.
From Sir Ahmadu Bello to Chief Obafemi Awolowo, from Mallam Aminu Kano to Nelson Mandela, from Abraham Lincoln to Winston Churchill, history has proven that the most criticized politicians are often the most successful. A wise politician understands that being talked about, even negatively, is better than being ignored. Silence is the real danger—not criticism.
As Winston Churchill wisely said: “You have enemies? Good. That means you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life.”
A leader who can not withstand criticism is not ready for leadership. The path to greatness is paved with resistance, and only those who embrace criticism with wisdom and strategy can rise above it and leave a lasting legacy.
Sani Abdullahi Kofar-mata.
5th February 2025.
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