The Quest for Diplomatic Leadership in the Poetry of Tanure Ojaide

The essay focuses on the issue of leadership in the poet's society. It is fascinating to note that Ojaide suggests leadership training courses for aspiring African leaders. Specifically, this study shows that the poet would like an aspiring leader to take lessons in diplomacy. This is because leadership involves knowing how to work with the people. At Edon, the student learns that the loyalty of the masses is essential to good governance. The aspiring leader is taught to study the people and their temperaments. He should be able to gain and hold the loyalty of the masses. Knowledge of the human temperament is indispensable in enabling leaders deal with, and better comprehend, the people. In working with people, leaders need to be tactful and careful. The purpose of this essay is to demonstrate Ojaide's quest for diplomatic leadership in Africa in general, and Nigeria in particular.