By Lawrence Egede
In the often tempestuous world of Nigerian politics, where every move by those in authority is subjected to intense public scrutiny and frequently misinterpreted by opposition elements, the recent one-month suspension of eighteen government officials in Ebonyi State, without pay, stands out not just for its boldness but for its symbolism.
While on the surface, it appears to be a typical disciplinary measure aimed at correcting erring members of a governing team, a deeper reflection suggests it is far more significant. I choose to describe it as an act of “Adult Discipline”—a term that resonates with deep meaning in our cultural and moral context.
It is not every day that a state government suspends such a sizeable number of senior officials in one fell swoop. The emotional and administrative weight of such a move is heavy. It is akin to seeing a large part of a family unit fall under the same reprimand. This is not child’s play. This is adult governance dealing with adult functionaries—people who know the stakes, responsibilities, and expectations of their roles.
The news came like thunderclap across the state. It stirred murmurs in corridors of power and whispers among the governed. Yet, it is crucial that the public and especially those outside the government understand this not as an act of public humiliation, but as an internal corrective mechanism. One that a truly inclusive and forward-looking administration must sometimes resort to.
In mature circles, we understand discipline as a tool for realignment, not destruction. For adults, discipline should not be laced with shame or vendetta; it should come with a desire for reconciliation, for order, and ultimately, for harmony.
It is important to acknowledge that Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has not only the right but also the responsibility to ensure discipline within his Cabinet. Discipline is the lifeblood of order. Without it, governance becomes chaotic, decisions become erratic, and delivery on the people's mandate becomes impossible.
Therefore, on the surface, this decision though painful to many was right. Leadership often demands the courage to take unpopular decisions. However, leadership also demands sensitivity especially when dealing with mature individuals who are stakeholders in the same dream, the same burden, and the same victories of governance.
Governor Nwifuru must be commended for taking a difficult but necessary step. At the same time, it must be said that the righteousness of a leader is reflected in his mercy, not merely in the correctness of his actions.
Politics, like any battlefield, has its vultures and opportunists. Any sign of division, of a crack in the wall, of discontent in the camp, becomes a ripe ground for manipulation and mischief. The suspension of these 85 officials may be well-intentioned, but if not handled delicately, it may birth malice, foster secret resentments, and fuel unnecessary stories from the opposition.
Political foes are known to use subtle propaganda. They will whisper into the ears of the Governor: "You’ve done well; you have shown you’re not afraid to act." Then they’ll turn around and whisper to the suspended officials: "Don’t mind him; he has no regard for your efforts. You’re adults, not children." Before long, schisms develop. Trust is eroded. Teamwork suffers.
That is why the call for "in-house reconciliation" is not a weak suggestion. It is a wise one. Just as elders in the community will often close the door to the public before settling family misunderstandings, a political family must not allow its differences to spill over into the market square.
The Governor, by virtue of his office, is the head. But a head without a functioning body is helpless. The success of this administration and indeed of any government rests on the collective synergy of its team. The Charter of People's Needs, which this administration has championed, is only meaningful when every hand is on deck.
In a mature enclosure, as I earlier noted, adults must see themselves as partakers in both triumphs and trials. They must take correction with grace, just as they take accolades with humility. But such correction, too, must be administered with care, not with harsh publicity or an air of finality. When done in-house and away from the ears of adversaries, the healing is faster and the unity deeper.
This is why we appeal for the suspension to be treated as a call to reflection not humiliation. Let it be concluded with forgiveness, silent correction, and reinstatement. The regime has gained a reputation for inclusivity, and it should not lose that credit.
Even in divine systems of justice, punishment is not an end in itself. In the biblical book of Exodus, God gave commandments to teach man His holy standard. But alongside those commandments came the provision of priesthood and sacrifices—a path to reconciliation.
Similarly, a human leader must mirror this sacred balance: justice when needed, mercy when possible. Every great kingdom, every great leader, is remembered not just for the laws they enforced, but for the hearts they won.
Governor Nwifuru is not just a political head; he is a shepherd. And in shepherding, there must be times for the rod, but also times for the balm. Let this situation become an opportunity to showcase the compassionate strength of leadership not just its punitive side.
The proverb says: “Count your teeth with your tongue.” It implies caution, introspection, and discreet evaluation. That is the spirit we must adopt in this matter. Let not anger, media sensationalism, or political rivalry push this government into making permanent enemies out of temporary missteps.
Let every leader in Ebonyi State suspended or not remember that this administration is a shared project. The goals are collective. The challenges are mutual. And the enemies both internal and external are waiting for every opportunity to strike.
Let us close ranks. Let us treat this as an in-house affair and heal fast. Let this “adult discipline” not tear apart the fabric of the family. Instead, let it strengthen mutual respect, accountability, and above all, team spirit.
To God alone be the glory, forever.
About the Author:
Egede Lawrence is a commentator on public affairs and a senior contributor to National Panel's opinion and features desks. His writings focus on the intersection of leadership, morality, and governance in Nigeria.
