As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, writer and social commentator Keem Abdul offers a timely reflection on leadership and democracy through two books that examine the country’s most recent presidents.
Together, the works provide a thoughtful look at the past and present, inviting Nigerians to consider the lessons of leadership as the nation charts its future.
In Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015–2023), Abdul explores the life and presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, from his days as a military ruler to his two terms as a democratically elected president.
The book reflects on Buhari’s reputation for integrity, the challenges he faced while in office, and the lessons his leadership leaves behind.
Abdul writes: “The story of Buhari is the story of a man who became the symbol of integrity in Nigeria, but whose government eventually became a byword for competence tested by enormous national challenges.” (p. 9)
He adds: “The Buhari years will be remembered not only for the change they promised, but for the lessons they leave behind for a country still seeking its democratic balance.” (p. 313)
While Scorched Earth looks back, Abdul’s The King Maker: Chronicle of a Roller Coaster Life turns to the present. This volume follows Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s remarkable journey from his early years and career abroad, to his achievements as Governor of Lagos State, and his pivotal role in building political coalitions that led him to the presidency.
It highlights Tinubu’s resilience and strategic brilliance, while also addressing the controversies that have accompanied his career.
The book observes: “Tinubu’s genius lies not only in winning power for himself but in constructing platforms that made others possible.” (p. 12) It concludes:
“The question now before Nigerians is whether the skills that brought Tinubu to power are the same ones that can
rescue a fragile Republic.” (p. 280)
Taken together, the two books form a companion study of leadership at a defining moment in Nigeria’s history.
Buhari’s years in office serve as a reflection on service and the weight of expectations, while Tinubu’s ongoing story raises questions about the future of governance and the meaning of political mastery in a young democracy.
Keem Abdul, the author of both works, is a Nigerian writer and social commentator who focuses on politics, governance, and society.
His books are not written in the language of praise or attack, but as chronicles that encourage Nigerians to reflect deeply on their leaders and on the
Republic itself.
Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015–2023) and The King Maker: Chronicle of a Roller Coaster Life are both available on Mainstack and Selar.
