Public affairs commentator, Bill Uchegbue, has urged political leaders in Nigeria to surround themselves with advisers who can provide honest and professional counsel, rather than individuals motivated primarily by political connections or personal interests.

Uchegbue stated this during an interview on Political Conversations on Freedom Square TV, hosted by Uchenna Cyril Anioke.

He said a sincere adviser should be prepared to tell a president, governor or local government chairman when a policy is wrong or unlikely to achieve its intended objective.

“I prefer somebody that will face me and tell me the bitter truth,” Uchegbue said, arguing that leaders should value advisers who are willing to point out their mistakes.

He maintained that public office is temporary and that those entrusted with government responsibilities should make decisions that create a sound foundation for future generations.

Uchegbue further argued that political appointments should be driven by competence and the ability to contribute meaningfully to governance, rather than merely by loyalty and political connections.

He said leaders should also develop direct channels of communication with citizens instead of relying exclusively on information supplied by political appointees.

According to him, modern technology makes it easier for political leaders to monitor public opinion and understand the concerns of citizens without depending entirely on intermediaries.

He urged the President to interact more directly with Nigerians and listen to their concerns, saying effective leadership requires constant engagement with the people.