The Nigerian political landscape has always been characterized and mostly dominated by middle-aged and older men who have been in politics for decades, owing to cultural norms, political hierarchy, and in most cases their financial strength. The turning point was in 2016 when the #NotTooYoungtoRunBill was conceived by a non-governmental organization Yiaga Africa and was eventually passed into law by the Nigerian government and assented to in the year 2018 by former President, General Muhammadu Buhari Rtd.
The 2019 general elections thereby gave a lot of youths across the country the privilege to throw their hats into the ring by contesting for various elective offices, mostly the state assemblies, House of Representatives, and the Senate riding on the mantra of #NotTooYoungToRun. The short time frame for the 2019 elections did not give those who emerged enough political orientation and mental preparedness to fit in and perform their duties effectively and efficiently. An example is the case of the youngest Senator of the 9th Assembly, Elisha Abbo which buttressed the speculations that the Nigerian youth may not represent much of a positive change in the affairs of the country, and this transcends down to all other levels of representation as being seen in most instances.
In a country where the involvement of youths in governance has often been met with skepticism and doubt, Olufade is breaking barriers and changing the narratives. Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, a young and dynamic business tycoon, philanthropist, and political enthusiast is challenging the status quo and redefining what it means to be a youth in politics. He had been holding several leadership positions even before joining politics and had effected a lot of changes and impacts in people and communities.
His entry into active politics before 2019 and his influence and impact since then till date has molded and baked him into a significant figure ready to make a shift in the political paradigm, one that places youth at the helm of decision-making and genuine governance.
Olufade’s sojourn in politics is not without its challenges and difficulties, he has grown with the experiences, become well acquainted with the entirety of Ibadan North Local Government politics and the lacunae of development, all which have fortified him more and placed him on a path of public service, driven by a vision of creating a better future for the people.
Despite the setbacks encountered since the 2021 internal local government election arrangements, House of Representatives ambition, I can enunciate that all experiences gathered for this 2024 Local Government in which he is vying for the post of Chairman, Ibadan North spells clearly that his rise to prominence is a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment in service to God and humanity.
Unlike traditional politicians who often prioritize personal gain over public welfare, he brings a fresh perspective and a genuine desire to effect positive change in all sectors. His resolve to serve with utmost genuineness brings about a symbol of hope and possibility, breaking the mold and redefining what it means to be a useful and youthful figure in politics.
As he continues to chart his course, one thing is clear: the tide is turning, and the era of youth leadership has only just begun.
Akinloluwa writes from Egbeda.
