Dr. Kunle Olajide, a respected elder statesman and former Secretary General of the Yoruba Council of Elders, has issued a compelling call to action, urging both federal and state governments to prioritize and aggressively address the pervasive poverty afflicting a vast majority of Nigerians. He argues that the rampant vote buying and selling, and the influence of money in Nigerian politics are direct consequences of this deep-seated poverty. Olajide emphasizes the urgent need to implement effective measures that uplift citizens above the poverty line, thereby diminishing their vulnerability to vote selling and promoting a more ethical and equitable political landscape. His remarks were made during a homecoming reception organized by the Ekiti Council of Elders, where he was honored with the prestigious Blue Cap designation, reserved for elders aged 80 and above.
The event served as a platform for Olajide to share his insights and concerns about the state of the nation, specifically highlighting the detrimental impact of poverty on the political process. He stressed the crucial role of state governors and local government chairmen, being the closest levels of government to the people, in tackling this pervasive issue. Olajide advocated for a shift in focus from self-enrichment to genuine public service, urging these officials to prioritize the well-being of their constituents and allocate resources effectively to alleviate poverty. He emphasized the need to empower citizens to recognize the value of their votes and resist the allure of monetary inducements during elections.
Olajide’s call for action extends beyond addressing poverty to encompass support for the current administration. He commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, expressing confidence in his ability to navigate the complexities of governing Nigeria. Drawing parallels between Tinubu’s successful governance of Lagos, a state often described as a microcosm of Nigeria, and his current role as President, Olajide expressed optimism about the direction of the country. He urged Nigerians to rally behind the President, offering their unwavering support and prayers as he steers the nation forward.
While expressing his overall support for Tinubu’s leadership, Olajide also acknowledged the inherent right of any Nigerian to aspire to the presidency. He anticipated a potential challenge for Tinubu in securing a second term, emphasizing the need for the President to demonstrate a strong track record of achievements to garner the necessary support. This acknowledgment underscores the dynamic nature of Nigerian politics and the importance of continuous performance evaluation for elected officials.
Furthermore, Olajide extended his commendation to Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, praising his deep understanding of the state’s intricacies and his dedicated efforts in serving its people. Acknowledging Oyebanji’s instrumental role in the creation of Ekiti State, Olajide urged all citizens of Ekiti, regardless of their political affiliations, to unite and support the governor’s endeavors for the betterment of the state. This call for unity underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving progress and development.
In essence, Olajide’s message encapsulates a multi-faceted approach to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic foundations. He advocates for tackling poverty as a fundamental step towards mitigating the influence of money in politics, empowering citizens to make informed electoral choices. He also advocates for supporting the current leadership while acknowledging the right of others to aspire to higher office, fostering a culture of accountability and healthy competition. Finally, he stresses the importance of unity and collaborative efforts within specific states, emphasizing the role of collective action in achieving progress and development. This holistic perspective underscores the interconnectedness of various factors in shaping a robust and thriving democracy.
