I became a star in over fifty countries because of my integrity – Madumere
Good morning friends, while I am struggling to sleep, I discovered I have been pre-
occupied by one of the core principles of leadership, which is INTEGRITY. I decided to share it with you for there is blessing in sharing even knowledge. Some of you who have had closer relationship with me would realise that I have often tried not to be identified as a Politician but rather as an administrator because of the bastardisation of its true meaning. In Nigeria today, Politician means everything evil or negative since it connotes lies, back biting, treachery, betrayal, self serving compromises and conspiracy even when true leadership ought to take the front seat. Yes, a whole lot get into statecraft but surely, when dealing with the people, you must have been tested to have consistency of character.
Our revered Chinua Achebe of blessed memory once said said that “one of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised”. How many of us are conscious of the need to be honest, consistent in saying it as it is, persistent in upholding values and norms that are relatively accurate to the acceptable standards in human relations.
For me, for any forward looking budding leader who wishes to build confidence and trust, you must first prove your integrity. How do you react to tempting factors? Some of us do not have integrity and that is why we lack the will power to even cast our votes to the right candidate. We cry each day over bad leadership and yet when you are approached with little cash, you compromise the future of the entire State and beyond.
Most of you may not know that I had a flourishing background in the corporate America. I became a star in over fifty countries of the world because I have integrity. When I promise a thing, I try to fulfill it however painful. This is the more reason I rarely make pledges so as not to run into trouble. And when you fail for obvious reasons, be humble to explain and if possible apologize. Proverbs 10:9 says: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.
My records are there, I succeeded in all the peace missions and other negotiations for the State because I have integrity. I am respected all over the world because I refused to be bribed against my people. I refused many offers because I hate to betray anyone even with a billion dollar. Integrity is nothing but it will surely confer deference on you even from those that hate you. God bless you all
March 2, 2018