Rivers Leadership Crisis: What Wike Should Learn About 48 Laws Of Power

By John Ifaka

There are 3 laws from the 48 laws of Power that Wike Should read again, if he had not done so before

Following the recent political developments in Rivers State, Nigeria, it appears that Governor Nyesom Wike may not have fully grasped several key principles from Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws of Power. Notably, he seems to overlook Law 5: So Much Depends on Reputation—Guard It With Your Life, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong public image. Wike’s controversial decisions and statements have sometimes damaged his reputation, undermining his authority and effectiveness as a leader.

Additionally, Wike could benefit from understanding Law 29 : Plan All the Way to the End. This law stresses the importance of foresight and considering the long-term consequences of actions. His approach often appears reactive rather than strategic, leading to missed opportunities for building sustainable alliances and fostering collaboration among agencies.

Lastly, Law 41 : Avoid Stepping Into a Great Man’s Shoes is particularly relevant. Wike’s attempts to emulate or compete with predecessors without establishing his unique leadership style can create perceptions of inadequacy, making it harder to consolidate power. By focusing on these laws, Wike could enhance his political acumen and navigate the complexities of governance more effectively.

Courtesy: John O. Ifaka, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Crusade for Democracy and Good Governance.