PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is concerned about intrusions with his work. His warning to his political appointees to lower the decibels on 2015 political contests or face sacks epitomises his misery in working with people whose attention is elsewhere.

In the face of high public expectations that promises made during campaigns less than a year ago should be delivered, some are busy with other campaigns, their own campaigns.

The President will have to act fast if he is to retain the attention of his appointees, many of who want to milk their appointments in fulfilling their ambitions. What is wrong with meetings on the 2015 elections? Nothing, except that most of the people holding these meeting use public resources – even if it is time – for their own purposes. It is doubtful if they would have time for their official duties once they plunge into project 2015. In addition, they peddle the influence of their offices in their venture.

“Let me also plead with us that those who are interested in the general elections in 2015. It is too early to hold meetings. You people can see that from the electoral laws and the Constitution, INEC normally declares (such contests) open. The idea is that people who were elected into offices as governors and President must be given time to work,” the President said.

The President’s speech is a reminder to the rest of the detailed planning that is required to succeed in 2015, especially those who want offices in order to serve. They can learn from mistakes of current office holders in proffering better alternatives to the country’s challenges.  They cannot wait until the whistle for the race is blown to start training. The time between INEC’s announced election schedules and the contests is inadequate to nurture democratic choices within the parties.

A choice awaits political appointees whose eyes are on running for office in 2015, they should leave office and pursue their dreams. The President’s example about party discipline using the African National Congress of South Africa underlines the authority of the party over its members. The ANC sacked President Thabo Mbeki when the party deemed it necessary.

There is too much work for the President to do without the additional distraction of lacking the commitment of his appointees. The pace and vigour required to rescue Nigeria cannot permit half-hearted devotion. Those who the public maintains at great expense to serve it must provide service or give way.

Nigerians want to see fulfilment of the lofty campaign promises they heard last year. Making Nigeria work is an elephantine project that demand immediate and complete attention. Only those dedicated to it should be on it.