By Rayyanu Bala

There is something interesting about Nigerian politics and visits to Chatham House in London. Over the years, the prestigious institution has become more than just a venue for Nigerian political leaders to explain their ideas, share their visions and engage with the international community. For some, it has also become an opportunity for political opponents to stage protests and make their grievances heard.

The experiences of Muhammadu Buhari, Rochas Okorocha, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and, only yesterday Joash Amupitan tell a story worth reflecting on.

When Muhammadu Buhari visited Chatham House in 2015, his appearance was greeted by protests from critics opposed to his political ambition. In 2016, Rochas Okorocha also encountered protesters by supporters of Biafra during his engagement at the institution. Years later, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit in 2022 attracted another round of demonstrations, with opposition figures making their voices heard outside the venue.

Now, Joash Amupitan has experienced a similar situation.

One cannot help but notice the pattern. Chatham House engagements by Nigerian political figures have, on several occasions, attracted protests from people who disagree with their politics, positions or public activities.

However, what we should always take into account is there is an important difference between the right to protest and the responsibility of a public office holder to remain focused on his assignment.

The protest surrounding Amupitan yesterday’s visit to Chatham House should not become a source of distraction or discouragement. But rather, it should be seen as part of the political environment in which public officials operate. Opposition parties and their supporters have every right to express disagreement, but their demonstrations should not determine the direction, priorities or effectiveness of public service.

Indeed, the political undertones surrounding the protest suggest that opposition interests may have played a significant role in organising or promoting the demonstration. While political opponents are entitled to make their positions known, it is important that such activities do not overshadow the substance of official engagements.

Leadership comes with criticism, disagreement and sometimes deliberate attempts to draw attention away from the task at hand. No public office holder can expect universal approval. What matters most is the ability to remain calm, professional and committed to the responsibilities of the office.

Rather than allowing the Chatham House incident to occupy his attention, Amupitan should concentrate on delivering on his mandate, strengthening public confidence and demonstrating through his actions that he is equal to the responsibilities entrusted to him.

At this juncture, we need to stress opposition is an essential component of democracy, but it should go beyond protests, demonstrations and political theatre. Nigerians deserve constructive engagement, credible alternatives and issue-based criticism that can contribute to national development.

History will not remember public officials just for the protests that greeted them at international venues. It will remember them by what they did with the opportunities and responsibilities they were given.

Buhari faced protests. Okorocha faced protests. Tinubu faced protests. Now Amupitan has faced one too.

The message should therefore be clear: Joash Amupitan should not be disturbed, intimidated or distracted by the Chatham House protest. He should remain resolute, focused and committed to the discharge of his duties.

Now that the protest, like the ones before it has come and gone. But at the end of the day it is, performance, professionalism and results that will speak louder than placards and Chatham house street protest.