Abigail Kareem

General John Michael once emphasized that conviction, commitment, and credibility are the three pillars of morally courageous leadership. These words are  profoundly traceable to today’s political landscape, especially for those aspiring to leadership positions. At the University of Ibadan, students have just embarked on a new semester which is five weeks spent, and it is a time known for its heightened political activity. However, amidst the enthusiasm, a troubling trend persists: the making of vague, lofty promises that often remain unfulfilled.  

The second semester is plainly synonymous with campaigns with its uniqueness of posters of smiling faces, catchy slogans, and grand promises. It’s that familiar season of declarations like, “If you vote for me, I promise to…” But the question remains: why make promises that cannot be kept? Why propose initiatives that are unattainable?  

Students often cast their votes based on perceived competence and appealing plans laid out in manifestos. Yet, history reveals a recurring pattern of candidates embellishing their manifestos with grandiose but hollow promises, only to fall short when it matters most. This pattern has fostered widespread distrust and deepened political apathy, leaving many students disillusioned.  

Despite this, leadership remains essential. Without it, chaos looms. In the University of Ibadan, student representation is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring that the collective voice is heard. However, trust is the foundation upon which leadership is built. Trust drives relationships, interactions, and initiatives. Many students vote in good faith, only to be disheartened by unfulfilled promises. This calls for a shift toward realistic, actionable commitments. Leaders must understand that empty promises do more harm than good.  

The repeated failure of student leaders to deliver on their pledges breeds political skepticism. When leaders consistently break their promises, it reinforces the perception that they are dishonest or self driven, this is mainly to build portfolio, or to show level of ambitiousness. This sentiment is widespread among University of Ibadan students, many of whom now view the electoral process as a farce. This recycling situation, however, undermines efforts to foster an engaged, hopeful student body that believes in change. Campaigns are increasingly seen as mere exercises in rhetoric, devoid of genuine intent.  

Campaign promises are not just words; they are commitments that define a leader’s credibility. Unfortunately, many student representatives have strayed from their manifesto pledges, neglecting both their promises and constitutional duties. A leader who speaks but does not act loses all credibility. This should serve as a warning to those seeking re-election: trust is earned through action, not words.  

To regain trust, student leaders must manage public expectations and communicate transparently about the challenges they face. By explaining delays or adjustments, leaders can mitigate disappointment and build goodwill. Accountability is key in leadership because it allows students to assess whether their leaders have fulfilled their promises. Recent events at the University of Ibadan reveal a leadership plagued by stagnation and nonchalance, which is further fueling political apathy. Many students now believe their leaders prioritize personal ambitions over collective interests.  

To student representatives: your manifestos are not just campaign tools; they are binding commitments. Students voted with the expectation of real change. As the second semester unfolds, they are watching and waiting for you to honor your promises. This is not a time for rhetoric—it is a time for action.