In the symphony of democratic governance, invitations from the nation’s leadership—whether from the legislature, judiciary, or security institutions—are not ceremonial pleasantries.
By refusing the call, a leader doesn’t just dodge a seat at the table—they risk breaking the very table democracy rests on.
They are constitutional chords struck in the key of accountability. And when that call comes, answering it isn’t merely a gesture of goodwill—it’s a civic duty.
The uproar over Nigerian chess prodigy and global literacy advocate, Tunde Onakoya, following his visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a stark reflection of how tribalism, political bias, and mistrust have distorted our understanding of patriotism.
What should have been celebrated as a moment of national pride—a citizen engaging the nation’s highest office—was twisted into a false narrative of political allegiance. Onakoya’s visit wasn’t an endorsement; it was a gesture of civic engagement with the country’s Commander-in-Chief.
In defending his decision on ‘X’ Onakoya stated, “I have no interest in partisan politics. Visiting the President is not a crime.”
History Has Spoken: The Law Is Clear
2019’s Political Crossroads:
Recall when Senate President Bukola Saraki, alongside Senators Dino Melaye and Ben Murray-Bruce, was summoned by the police over the INEC protest? The Federal High Court didn’t mince words. Their ruling affirmed that such summons were legally binding, not subject to political interpretation or personal discretion. Answering that call was not a favor to the system—it was an obligation within it.
Buhari’s Missed Moment:
Fast forward to President Muhammadu Buhari’s refusal to honor an invitation from the House of Representatives regarding national security. His absence wasn’t just noticed—it reverberated through the polity. Regional blocs like Ohanaeze and Afenifere, as well as Northern Christian leaders, decried the snub, branding it a breach of democratic expectations. Ohanaeze even warned of a creeping constitutional crisis sparked by perceived executive arrogance.
Democracy Demands Accountability
Attending such sessions is not performative—it’s instructive. It sends a signal that even the most powerful office in the land answers to the people.
It Sets a Standard:
In every healthy democracy, no one sits above oversight—not ministers, not governors, not even presidents. The act of showing up underscores this.
It Builds Trust:
Transparency is the lifeblood of public confidence. Citizens want to see their leaders engage openly, especially on significant matters such as security, policy decisions, or public finances.
It Preserves Institutional Harmony:
When leaders respond respectfully to co-equal branches of government, it strengthens the constitutional balance and prevents unnecessary power tussles.
But What About State Secrets?
Understandably, there are boundaries. National security isn’t a Netflix series. Confidential strategies should remain classified. However, that argument can’t justify total avoidance. Closed-door briefings, executive sessions, or selective disclosures are legitimate alternatives. But presence? That’s non-negotiable.
Even APC leaders, who cautioned against “spilling the beans” on security matters, agreed on one thing: legislative summons are valid under democratic rule. Attendance does not equate to weakness—it is, in fact, a show of responsible strength.
The Civic Equation: Show Up or Undermine the System
When an elected leader shuns an official invitation, it sends the wrong message. It tells the public: “I am beyond questioning.” But democracy thrives only when its leaders kneel before the very system that elevated them.
In the end, complying with a presidential or legislative invite is not a crime—it is citizenship in action.
So the next time the state calls, whether for a president, governor, or senator, let the response be swift and sure. Not out of fear. Not out of politics. But out of respect—for the people, for the law, and for the enduring promise of democracy.
Because when democracy knocks, silence is not an option.
