After Nigerians criticized the FCT Minister for taking his sons to an official engagement in Dubai, one comment read, “As for me, even my ancestors will be empowered if I’m opportuned to be in power.” This statement, though made casually, reflects a deep problem within society — the normalization of corruption and nepotism. It implies that public office is a personal inheritance to be used for family or ancestral benefit, rather than a responsibility to serve the people.
Such comments reveal how some individuals view leadership as an avenue for personal gain instead of public service. When citizens begin to justify or even joke about misuse of power, it weakens accountability and encourages a cycle of corruption. Public offices are meant for service, not family empowerment, and normalizing otherwise is a dangerous mindset that undermines national progress.
