Senator Shehu Sani has shed light on the immense challenges faced by those in public office.
Speaking from personal experience, Sani in a post he shared on his social media handle on Suturday, described the journey of holding political power as one fraught with emotional, financial, and mental strain, emphasizing that “power is not a bed of roses.”
Sani, who served as a Senator representing Kaduna Central from 2015 to 2019, highlighted the costly and often grueling process of recalling a Senator, noting that such efforts are typically state-backed and require significant financial resources.
“To avert recall, a Senator must spend a huge amount of money or rely on the goodwill of their constituents to survive,” he explained.
This comments comes on the heels of ongoing efforts in Kogi State to recall suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti, saying even elected officials must constantly fight to maintain their positions.
The former lawmaker painted a vivid picture of the burdens faced by those in power, describing the role as one with “no rest or breathing space.” He likened sitting on the throne of power to “sitting on a thorn,” a metaphor for the relentless pressures and responsibilities that come with leadership. “The day you get elected as a Councillor, lawmaker, Governor, or President, that is bye-bye to your mental peace until your exit,” Sani remarked.
Sani also touched on the physical toll of political office, noting that many leaders age significantly during their tenure. “We have been through that experience and fire, and I can feel the troubles of those in office,” he said. “That’s why you see people age faster by the time they exit office.”
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