VOX POPULI, VOX DEI: A SYMBOLIC CROWD OVATION FOR GOVERNOR ALEX CHIOMA OTTI AND THE CASE OF LEADERSHIP OF INCLUSIVITY
“Vox Populi, Vox Dei” a Latin phrase which means “the voice of the people is the voice of God.” Though its earliest usage is attributed to Alcuin (c. 735 – 804), Sir Francis Galton’s paper published in Nature Journal on March 7, 1907, titled “Vox Populi” demonstrates the wisdom of the crowd by means of statistical analysis. It illustrates, among other things, that the opinion of most people is often the closest to reality.
The resounding ovation that Governor Alex Chioma Otti continues to receive from the crowd is symbolic of the above age-old maxim. This enthusiastic show of public reception and appreciation is a testament to the profound impact, resourcefulness, and resonance of his leadership within the community.
It has been argued by many that love and respect are not forced but earned. In the realm of politics, natural and free-flowing acknowledgement and support from the crowd are indicative of a leader who has successfully connected with the sentiments, aspirations, and needs of the people. The Latin phrase “Vox Populi, Vox Dei” captures the essence of democratic governance, and emphasises the significance of the people’s voice in shaping the course of leadership.
If anything, the crowd’s ovation serves as a democratic chorus – echoing the collective sentiment that Dr. Alex Otti’s leadership aligns with the desires and aspirations of the community. It is a powerful endorsement, signalling not only approval but also a deep sense of trust and belief in his ability to represent and advocate for the populace.
In a broader context, this enthusiastic reception reinforces the idea that effective leadership goes beyond mere governance; it involves a genuine connection with the people, understanding their needs, and being responsive to their concerns. The phrase “Vox Populi, Vox Dei” underscores the idea that the legitimacy and success of a leader ultimately stems from the support and affirmation of the people they serve.
As Dr. Alex Otti basks in the euphoria of the cheers and applause of the crowd, it becomes a clear affirmation that his leadership resonates with the collective will of the people. The crowd’s ovation is not just an expression of admiration; it is a strong proclamation that, in the eyes of the community, his leadership embodies the very essence of vox populi — the voice of the people.
The voice of the majority who are appreciative of and applauding the leadership ingenuity of Governor Alex Otti is a pointer that the very few who are against him are coming from a place of bad blood. This is not to say that the government of His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti detests criticism. No! Just like no one has been able to see his or her back, healthy criticism is like a mirror that helps individuals, especially leaders, to see farther than their eyes can see.
Healthy criticism keeps leaders on their toes as it helps them know their areas of deficiency in order to make necessary amendments. The administration of Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, therefore, welcomes healthy criticism that aims at good leadership delivery for the people, and not a destructive criticism coming from a bad place of nursing wounds. Rather than correcting, advising, and recommending where necessary, it aims at a total deconstruction and redirection of focus away from building a better and prosperous Abia state for the good of all.
The few voices antagonising the administration of Dr. Alex Otti so far have been carefully assessed and have proven to be doing so from a place of bad blood. This kind of destructive criticism must be countered by every well-meaning Abian since it holds nothing good for the people of the state. It is an evil-intended scheme to hoodwink the unsuspecting masses to turn against the man whom God has ordained to wipe their tears and heal their wounds.
The good people of Abia state are therefore enjoined to turn a deaf ear to any form of distraction emanating from the camp of the never-do-well and join hands together in rebuilding Abia for the common good of the state and her residents.
Written by Anokwuru C,U.Ph.D.
Political Analysts.
