Ndidiamaka EdeIndividuals must at some point in their life, be tired, aged or even pass on someday. Hence, there is need for one to appoint a successor for continuity of talents, replacements in offices, positions of power and authority.
Before the coming of the Whites to Africa, Africans had their ways of doing things, like treatment of diseases, dissemination of information, production of foot and body wears, etc. Eventually, our forefathers died with many of their knowledge untapped. This is because they were stingy with information. They did not transmit their knowledge to subsequent generations.
It is often said that a father’s constant prayer is that his sons be more successful in life than him. Reverse is usually the case as many fathers never pray for that.
Why some don’t choose successors
The first reason why some people don’t choose a successor is pride, which they say, goes before a fall. When someone is too proud of himself, such person would never be humble enough to choose a successor.
Another reason is the “No one taught me” factor. Some people believe that since they learnt certain things by themselves, or that no one supported them when they were striving to make it, they owe nobody anything, not even their biological children.
Furthermore, some refuse to have a successor because of self-respect. Worthy to note in this case are old men who are seventy years and above, but wouldn’t retire. Such persons want to be seen as the greatest, thereby asking themselves such questions like “what would I be boastful of?”
Most parents are greedy and conservative that their children or next of kin know nothing about their wealth, expensive gold/silver jewelries and landed properties, and have most of those things stored in the banks.
Commenting on the importance of having someone to inherit their assets, Revrend Fr. Arinzechukwu Parish Priest of St. Ann Catholic Church Ndiagu Amechi, Enugu said, “Anyone investing from age forty upwards should know that such investment is for others, and should you deny your relations access to it, you are a wicked fellow. Mind you that the day you will die, someone somewhere must possess your inheritance. So the question should be: who will succeed you?”.
While choosing a successor, one ought to:
– Look inwardly to avoid choosing the wrong person.
– Avoid choosing a wicked person, i.e., someone who is inconsiderate.
– Avoid choosing an incompetent person that you know cannot manage the asset which may be a business venture.
– Don’t choose someone because you like the person. Handing over to such person will be counterproductive.
– You shouldn’t choose a greedy and arrogant person that would want to succeed you for his own selfish desire. Rather, choose one that is ready to serve others.
– Having considered the above criteria, equip and encourage your successor.
To the chosen one:
To whom much is given, much is expected. As a successor, be careful in order not to destroy or mismanage what has been entrusted to you.
Forget about what your master did not do well and try to go extra mile to beautify the call.
As a successor, remove earthly desires and gains. Your pocket shouldn’t be the target.
Always remember to ask questions and seek the consent of your master while executing your job. Never believe you know it all.
In conclusion, do not leave your successor in the hands of nature. Remember, there is always a replacement. To prevent the wrong people from taking over your possessions and position when you pass on, choose a successor for yourself now that you are still healthy.
Patience Ndidiamaka Ede Prime Business Africa Journalism Mentee writes from Enugu
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