If there's anything a leader must chase after, it's the opportunity to be of positive impact to others.
Empowering others not suppressing them is what makes you empowered as a leader.
As a leader you can't be more empowered above the level with which you empower others.
Please, stop the suppression of your followers.
Equip them to discover, develop and deploy their potentials.
Give them appropriate platforms and opportunities to do so.
Train them to be responsible on their job.
Be happy and reward them at their success.
Encourage them to do more.
By empowering others, you're showing how powerful you are yourself.