Sir: With the general elections a few months away, it is imperative for Nigerians to check the scorecard of our previous leaders, and those that are interested to come in, from the local councils, the governors to the federal level.

We need those who would listen and who have the interest of the masses at heart to be voted for. This is so because it takes a compassionate man to know that the poor are really suffering, and, therefore, takes measures to better their lot.

For voters to know the leader who will have compassion, they should look at their backgrounds, antecedents and previous performance of the candidates in their respective endeavours.

For the avoidance of doubt, only a leader who has experienced the vicissitudes of life would understand what the people go through, not one who has, all his days, enjoyed life. This is not to say that people from rich backgrounds do not make good leaders. No. What I mean is that, only those who understand what it takes to survive in harsh economic environment would know that welfarism is a good policy.

Indeed, the leader Nigeria needs at this time is somebody with technical competence, patience and love. Also, we need somebody who acknowledges dialogue as a better way of solving problems. He should not be somebody who suppresses the poor. Above all, we need a God-fearing leader, irrespective of religion.

This is the time for reflection on past records or scorecard, whether or not the leaders have contributed to socio-economic and political development of the country. We must ask ourselves questions, as to whether those seeking our mandate want power for themselves or to cater to the welfare of the people.

Those seeking elective office to feather their nests should not get our votes, and it is easy to know those who are seeking office for selfish end. We can know this from their manifestoes or planned programs. Those who do not have welfarist programme can’t be for the masses.

To ensure that the country gets this type of leaders, Nigerians must exercise their franchise, they must vote and ensure that their votes count. Therefore, those who are of voting age and registered must collect their Permanent Voters’ Card (PVC). It is with the card and in exercising their civil rights of voting, they would take control of their destiny. With that, they should stop bad leaders from occupying government offices.

The electorate must avoid violence, so as not to play into the hands of those who would want to manipulate the system and rig the elections. It is when there are peaceful polls that the will of the people will prevail. God bless Nigeria.
Edeson Effiong wrote from Oshodi, Lagos.