ONYINYE'S MIRROR ON LIFE

Tuesday, August 14, 2018
[email protected]
Ontario, Canada
IN PURSUIT OF POWER

he establishment of "The Young Shall Grow" transportation empire was a paradigm shift in the industry as it connected people to different parts of the country through affordable and comfortable luxury coaches; an alternative to expensive air travel, and long or non-existent train services for the average person. This revolution in transportation was also exploited by other companies notably- ABC, Ekene Dili Chukwu, Chisco etc. Looking at this same concept in the light of politics in Nigeria, there is undoubtedly a new paradigm shift in the recent "Not Too Young To Run" bill signed into law by President Buhari's Administration on May 31. Elections in 2019 should have an interesting and promising mixture of forward thinking visionaries to showcase alternative choices for leadership.

The youths are now invited, creating a golden opportunity to be part of the political process in a country that has a population with its youth demographic as a core asset. It is a loud and significant message being sent by the administration that in fact, "The Young Have Grown" and they should join in policy making and shaping of the nation. Are the youths ready to step up and step into the often complex political discourse? Do they have the "staying power" to wriggle and wrangle through the dynamic and fluid political landscape? It is an arduous journey ahead for the youths, but the "elders" should welcome fresh minds at the table. No longer spectators, they can respectfully engage in the leadership arena. The bill will reduce the Presidential age limit from 40 to 35, Governorship and Senators from 35 to 30, House of Representatives and House of Assembly Membership from 30 to 25. Alas, the unleashing of Nigerian youths in pursuit of power!

However, let us not forget that General Yakubu Gowon was 32 years old when he became the Head of State in 1966 and General Odumegwu Ojukwu was 33 years old when he became the Governor of the Eastern Region in the same year. Murtala Mohammed was 37 years old when he became Head of State in 1975. Although these were not elected positions, it is important to note that having young leaders in Nigeria is nothing new; it is just a forgotten phase. As anticipated, this is a new era where more eligible younger people can boldly put their name on the ballot paper, campaign intensively and intelligently, have a manifesto, debate, answer questions and try very hard to win people by appealing to their sensibilities and hope.

Nevertheless, the youths must ask themselves what this new window of opportunity holds. In fact, it is now a responsibility to deliver. Is it going to be a continuation of the past, or an accelerated transfer to where we ought to be and can be after almost 58 years of Independence? Can the youth help to reposition the country on a path that generations ahead can speak of? The youths must look beyond entrepreneurial mindsets and successes and be prepared to throw in some mental and physical energy into the dogged and rugged politics of the country. The flood gates have opened for young people nursing political ambitions to come to the table and be part of the conversation, but we must realize that getting to the table is just one part of the journey, but undoubtedly a crucial one.

Most importantly, staying at the table and making sure your ideas leave the table is where you need the stamina of "old people!" Young people should be ready to celebrate "meritorious years in public service." Build a well of integrity and values that will command respect both from their peers and elders in the community they aspire to lead. Seeking good role models for mentorship would be ideal. And of course, money is a key factor; sourcing for creative and ethical ways of raising funds to support their ambition could pose a challenge.

Indeed the young have grown and have come to stay. Will the country remain the same? Next elections will showcase new faces as the new bill will provide a platform for people that our country did not even know existed. Political parties should be gearing up for this new paradigm shift because who knows, maybe it is not a merger they need, it is just someone who understands the pain of the past, embodies the realities of today and gives people an anchor of hope for the future. Old or young, the playing field is levelling...let ideas and delivery win the day.


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