Ontological clarification of accountable leadership

Abstract

The question of statehood is embodied in the concept of
leadership. The concept of the state itself entails accountable
and capable leadership that is able to institute discipline,
order and stability in the society. Sometimes the state is
referred to as a polity or a body-politic. This in a way
connotes an egalitarian society where issues such as effective
administration and governance, equity, fairness, justice,
power, authority, civil order, political organization, policy
implementation, the prudent management and conduct of
public affairs, etc, have been adequately resolved. Otherwise,
what results is a stateless society. In essence, the effective
management of the affairs of the state rests on the shoulders
of wise and able leadership. What this amounts to is that
leadership is crucial to the sustainable existence of the
society. Unfortunately, Africa in general and Nigeria in
particular are trapped in the quagmire of inept, corrupt and
directionless leadership. In fact, it would amount to an
understatement to say that the lack of capable leadership is
the most fundamental problem confronting new African
states. It is in light of the foregoing that this paper assumes the
task of making an "ontological clarification of accountable
leadership." It intends to delineate the ontological foundation
of leadership with a view to showing how leadership can be
accountable to the society.