It often seems that politics is closer to humanity than any other profession. A profession stripped of politics or service may explain our struggle with humanity, whether in tradition, culture, academia, or elsewhere.
I’m struck by how politics challenges many of us to do the right thing and stay conscious of the morality and symbolism that matter to human needs: empathy, tolerance, understanding, recognition, respect, and belonging.
Two State House of Assembly members I know withdrew their bid for a fourth term. Out of empathy, symbolism, and moral consciousness, they stepped down to put their party’s interest first and allow consensus to work, instead of waging a fierce battle that destroys relationships and goodwill. Social media has since been flooded with praise for their magnanimity, mostly by fellow rivals and politicians.
These kinds of actions rarely come from those who feel no responsibility to serve or contribute positively to others. It is mostly politicians, despite their flaws, they constantly seek goodwill and visibility in this way.
With that in mind, don’t tell me we don’t need this more in our banks, hospitals, schools, and universities.
Because humanity is politics. A lecturer conscious of humanity, or of “politics” in this sense, would be modest enough to admit that mass failure in his exams might partly be his fault. He would acknowledge that lateness to class is not always a sign of unseriousness by students. The lecturers will take personal responsibility when they fail to attend classes as well.
This mindset challenges us to be sensitive to the feelings of everyone who crosses our path, even those we don’t need to impress. It makes everyone our relative, our potential friend to love or empathize with.
In hospitals, everyone feels at home with Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, because we are political and accommodating enough to be free with one another and to trust.
What brought Obi and Peter together is politics that can bind. These days I see Sadiya smile, interact with Emeka and Tope, because they are united by same political party.😀
The truth is that, like soccer or sports, politics may serve more than politicians do.
Bagudu Mohammed
bagudumohammed15197@gmail.com
