In Nigeria and indeed across the world, connection to the higher-ups is often seen as a prized possession. Yes, it is. It is actually a currency.
If the currency is used wisely, it can open doors, foster goodwill and solve genuine problems. But like any currency, it loses value when used carelessly and squandered on trivialities.
The footage of the video of how popular musician, KWAM1 delayed a flight while permanently glued to his phone is there for all to see. Was he trying to call someone influential to stop the pilot from taking off? Perhaps.
Was he expecting the person on the other side of the call to halt the plane just to prove how connected he was? Most likely.
If so, this is a misuse of influence. Plain and simple!
Misusing connections is not much different from a schoolboy who, after being corrected by a teacher says to the teacher, "I'll bring my daddy to school tomorrow to punish you." It is juvenile, arrogant and counterproductive.
Now let's see why we must use influence responsibly:
Connections are for causes, not convenience. They should be used to solve genuine issues and not used to fuel ego.
Overuse of connections dilutes value. Frequent calls to the higher-ups for petty matters make you seem incapable of handling situations on your own and it makes you seem cheap.
Reputation travels faster than power. People will remember the abuse of privilege longer than they remember the privilege itself.
Influence should inspire respect not fear. People should want to help you because of your character, not because you can call someone.
Greatness is quiet. The most connected often don’t flaunt it, they let their conduct speak.
Think about this: What would Seyi Tinubu, son of the President have done in such a situation? He will likely walk past all security checks quietly, without seeking undue attention.
What would Davido have done? Perhaps he would ask for bottles of water once on board the flight to combat dehydration without holding up an entire flight.
These young men wield stronger connections than most, yet they don’t waste them on petty displays of power.
For those fond of saying, “Do you know who I am?”, I beg, prove who you are through good conduct. If you must call someone to address a matter, first comply with procedure, then present your case calmly. Don’t call just to have someone overlook your misconduct and punish the person trying to teach you basic manners.
Real power is knowing you can flex muscles but choosing restraint and respect.
The media is my connection and I'm using it to teach common sense.
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