By Dr. Mufutau Ayinla Abdul-Yakeen
Introduction
Leadership, especially in academic institutions, is not merely about occupying a prestigious office. It is about fostering justice, ethical decision-making and ensuring that all stakeholders, especially staff members, are treated with fairness and dignity. This article reflects on the appointment of a former registrar, whose previous tenure was marred by allegations of injustice and unethical practices, to a new position as a pioneer registrar at another institution. This reflection is not born out of bitterness but out of a sincere desire to prevent history from repeating itself.
The Weight of Leadership: Lessons from Yoruba Wisdom
Drawing from the wisdom of Yoruba elders, the lyrics “kan-kan-kan lanran ilfa aditi” reminds us that “We keep explaining the results obtained from Ifa Oracle to the deaf.” Similarly, the saying “bi oni seri ola le mari bee lomu baba alawo maa difa oroorun” translates to “If today is fine, tomorrow may not be the same, hence the Oracle is consulted every odd day.” These proverbs emphasize the need for constant reflection, foresight, and diligence in decision-making, particularly in leadership positions.
The Moral Imperative in Islam
These lessons resonate deeply with Islamic teachings where God Almighty, Allaahu Ta’ala, exhorts humanity to “ask those who know if you do not know” and assures that He will not cheat anyone, as echoed in Qur’an Chapter 18:103–105. Leadership, especially one involving the welfare of many, is a trust that must be carried with the utmost care, empathy, and fairness. A registrar, who oversees the administration of a university, must be conscious that their decisions have long-lasting implications on people’s lives.
The Call for Ethical Decision-Making
The author witnessed firsthand how a registrar’s actions led to the unjust punishment of staff, resulting in personal and professional harm, sometimes even pushing affected individuals to despair. The poem that follows encapsulates a heartfelt plea to registrars and other leaders to avoid the pitfalls of the past and embrace a more humane and justice-driven approach to administration.
The Registrar Must Not Fail Again
The Registrar must not fail again,
The registrar should be an educated person,
The Registrar must not fail again,
The registrar must read all papers that pass through the registry,
The Registrar must not fail again,
The registrar must not be dogmatic,
The Registrar must not fail again,
The registrar needs to be humane in decision-making,
The Registrar must not fail again,
The registrar must have authentic documents to support decisions,
The Registrar must not fail again,
The registrar must contact, inform, and warn staff accused of wrongdoing before inflicting punishment.
Consequences of Unjust Leadership
Leadership rooted in injustice and partiality leaves a trail of devastation. Staff members who are unfairly punished may:
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Flee the institution, taking their talents elsewhere.
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Seek legal redress, leading to costly and public litigation.
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Accept their fate as the divine will, hoping for future atonement.
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Tragically, some may even be driven to suicide—an irreversible consequence for which no worldly atonement can suffice.
Leadership is a heavy burden, and decisions must be guided by fairness and due diligence. As Professor Okolo aptly said, “I can forgive, but I will not forget.” Such sentiments underscore the long-lasting scars that unjust leadership leaves behind.
Nemesis: The Unseen Arbiter
No matter how long injustice prevails, nemesis is inevitable. Yoruba wisdom teaches us that “Iyan ogun odun a maa joni lowo”—“nemesis catches up with the wicked, no matter how long.” Leaders who perpetuate injustice may rejoice temporarily, but divine justice, as promised by God Almighty, Allaahu Ta’ala, is inevitable.
Moving Forward: A New Registry Anthem
To prevent future failures, registrars should adopt a new anthem: “Ema gbin igi oro…” which translates to “Do not plant the seed of discord.” Harmony, transparency, and fairness should guide the registry’s daily operations to foster trust and lasting institutional growth.
Conclusion
The registrar’s role is one of sacred trust. Leaders must recognize that their tenure will be judged not by the accolades received at appointment but by the legacy they leave behind. True celebration comes not from initial success but from leaving an institution better than they found it.
The registrar must not fail again.
Author’s Note:
Dr. Mufutau Ayinla Abdul-Yakeen is the Chief Instructional Officer of Al-Huliyaa Instructional Services and Training Limited. He teaches Economics at Summit University Offa, Muhammad Kamalud-Deen University, Ilorin, and Ahman Pategi University, Patigi—all in Kwara State. He expresses deep gratitude to his classmates from G.H.S. Ilorin, 84 Set, whose compassion and support revitalized him during difficult times. May God Almighty, Allaahu Ta’ala, continue to bless those working toward a better Nigeria.
God bless Nigeria. Amen
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