A Commentary
By Revd. Dr. Kolade Oladele
GLODET Missions
Power is one of humanity’s greatest tests. Throughout history, leaders have often faced the temptation to believe that authority places them above accountability. Equally dangerous is the willingness of followers to elevate leaders beyond their proper place. Together, these tendencies threaten democratic governance, weaken institutions, and erode public trust.
When Mortals Wear Divine Robes
There is an ancient temptation that never disappears: the temptation for those in power to believe they are indispensable.
When politicians begin to act as though they are beyond question, they forget three enduring truths. God gives life and takes it away; politicians administer public resources. God searches the heart; politicians rely on polls, reports, and public opinion. God is eternal; political office is temporary.
Yet, in many societies, the signs are familiar. Public officials begin to expect unquestioning loyalty rather than constructive criticism. Titles and public praise become excessive. Personal image sometimes overshadows public service.
This is more than arrogance. It is the dangerous elevation of human authority beyond its rightful limits.
Recognising Political Deification
Political deification often reveals itself in subtle but unmistakable ways.
Leaders begin to regard themselves as incapable of error. Genuine criticism is dismissed as hostility, while honest questions are treated as acts of disloyalty.
Public institutions gradually become centred on personalities rather than principles. Policies are judged by who proposes them instead of whether they serve the public interest.
Citizens are pressured to believe that disagreement with a leader amounts to opposition to the nation itself. Healthy democratic debate is replaced by fear and conformity.
Perhaps most concerning is the growing expectation of constant praise. Instead of welcoming accountability, some leaders become surrounded by voices that celebrate every decision while discouraging honest evaluation.
The result is predictable. Poor decisions go unchallenged. Corruption finds protection. Institutional checks become weaker, and public confidence declines.
The Cost of Sycophancy
No leader develops a personality cult without willing participants.
Sycophancy is the habit of telling those in authority only what they want to hear in exchange for personal benefit. It replaces integrity with convenience and honesty with applause.
Its consequences are profound.
First, it silences truth. When advisers refuse to point out mistakes, preventable failures become inevitable.
Second, it ultimately harms the sycophant. Political administrations change, and those who built their influence solely on praise often discover that favour is temporary.
Third, it weakens the nation itself. Societies prosper when honest counsel is valued and accountability is encouraged. They decline when flattery replaces truth.
The office will always outlive the officeholder. Institutions endure; personalities do not.
The Better Path
Healthy democracies require citizens who understand both respect and responsibility.
Public office deserves respect, but no public official should be treated as infallible.
Strong institutions, not powerful personalities and provide lasting national stability. Hospitals, schools, courts, and public services should continue to function effectively regardless of who occupies political office.
Citizens should also resist exchanging conscience for temporary gain. Material incentives or political patronage should never outweigh honesty, justice, and the public good.
History consistently shows that societies flourish when courageous individuals are willing to speak truth with wisdom and respect, even when doing so is unpopular.
Conclusion
Politicians are elected to serve, not to be worshipped.
Citizens are stakeholders in governance, not subjects of personal rule.
Sycophancy may offer short-term rewards, but it carries long-term consequences for institutions, democracy, and national development.
A healthy society is one in which leaders welcome accountability, citizens exercise responsible freedom, and institutions remain stronger than personalities.
As Scripture reminds us:
“Put not your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.” — Psalm 146:3
About the Author:
Revd. Dr. Kolade Oladele is the founder of GLODET Missions and writes on leadership, governance, ethics, and faith-based public engagement.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of FortisTV News.
