In a country like Nigeria, where youths are often labeled as the “leaders of tomorrow,” it is ironic that they are rarely given the opportunity to lead. Every youth must wait until they are older before attempting to take on leadership roles. It is clear that any youth who dares to break this jinx will face persecution from those resistant to change. Some may even go as far as sponsoring smear campaigns against such youths.
Historically, Nigerian politics has not seen as many youths occupying sensitive positions as we do today, largely due to the advent of FGYB in politics. Today, many young individuals aspire to become governors across various parties in their respective states. FGYB’s entry into politics has opened the eyes of youth to the political arena. Rather than being relegated to thuggery during elections, youths are now becoming decision-makers. He laid the foundation for this shift. That is why some claim that the challenges he faces today are a consequence of running for president against the old politician.
As a youth, why would you align with the older politicians to hate the man who broke a barrier many thought could never be broken?
We live in a country where the PDP ruled for a solid sixteen years before the APC came to power in 2015. At that time, the PDP was the largest party. However, by 2021, FGYB, as Chairman of the APC Registration and Revalidation Membership Committee, grew the APC into the largest party in Africa, boasting over 40 million members. This represents a significant improvement—more than 60 percent growth since his appointment. Today, the APC enjoys more youth support than any other party.
FGYB has never lost any gubernatorial election in which he served as chairman for the APC. He was also Chairman of the APC Women and Youth Presidential Campaign Council for President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election in 2019. A young man with such achievements will naturally face challenges from opposition, as others do not want to see another party surpass theirs.
But as an APC member, why would you join opposition parties in spreading false information about the man who elevated your party above others in the country?
In Kogi State, we had governors before FGYB, but none brought as much development to the state as he has. In a state with diverse tribes and cultures, no governor has ever united the people like FGYB. He is the first politician in history to elevate previously unknown individuals to prominence across the state. If those who did not want Kogites to unite are criticizing him out of hatred, why would you side with them against the unifier? If those who opposed new faces in Kogi politics are sponsoring smear campaigns against him, why would the very people he helped elevate join them? If those who did not benefit directly from FGYB are bitter, does it make sense for those who did benefit to also feel the same way?
Before FGYB’s leadership in Kogi State, women were not recognized despite their contributions to development. However, since FGYB took office, women have been significantly acknowledged. As a woman, why would you align with those who never wanted your gender to lead against the man who fought to make your gender a leader?
Since the creation of Kogi State, one senatorial district had always held power until 2016, when FGYB, from a different district, assumed office. If those who did not want power to shift from their district are tarnishing his image, why would you, who hail from the same district as him, join them in tarnishing his reputation?
Achieving what seems impossible or challenging rooted interests requires a courageous person ready to make sacrifices for future generations. FGYB’s actions are akin to stepping on a lion’s tail for those who resist change. Hence, the challenges he faces today politically are a result of his bravery in challenging the status quo.
– Engr Ira Habib
