PLATO’S THEORISING OF PHILOSOPHER KING: MODEL OF LEADERSHIP IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Plato’s theorising of Philosopher King is predicated on leadership crises and the perilous 
consequences to the society, especially on the citizenry. In the traditions of leadership in the Greek 
city-state, Plato identifies gross inadequacies, particularly on the mistreatments of Socrates who 
he identifies as noble; virtuous and knowledgeable. Thus, he like Socrates opines that justice is 
imperative and indispensable for order, sustainability and transformation of the society. Justice is 
the foundation on which social, legal and moral obligations are built; it enhances the exercise of 
rights and duties. Hence, he thinks that a Philosopher King is person who is knowledgeable and 
habituates virtues, especially justice. Equipped by wisdom and justice, a philosopher king 
possesses the capacity, character and competence to deliver effective leadership; in the interest of 
the citizenry. In Nigeria, the socio-political classifications of majority and minority, identity 
politics, uneven distribution of national resources and electoral misconduct, especially malpractice 
are indicators that its political leadership is bereft of the principle of justice; equity and fairness. 
These factors lead to the social disorders that the country experiences and the consequent 
retrogression of the state. It is on these bases that Plato’s theorising of the Philosopher King serves 
as a model of leadership to Nigeria. To alleviate the predicament, the study recommends 
reconstruction of Nigerian political system and policies; to build on social justice: fairness, equity 
and inclusivity of the citizens. It argues that capacity, character and competence are foundational 
criteria of leadership, rather than ethnic, religious and political identities. also, it contends that by 
justice, the government and the citizens would be mutually obliged to their duties and rights, which 
ultimately conduce to collective wellbeing. The study adopts the qualitative research methodology 
to provide existential perspectives.