Politics Beyond Wealth: Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK) Urges Level Playing Field

Reimagining Nation-Building Through Ethical Leadership and the Power of Collective Purpose

AKK is a governorship Aspirant in Oyo State in 2027.
The idea that nations can be built with absolutism of ideas from a select few or an infinitesimally small group is wild and somewhat illusionary. Great nations are made from the cohesiveness of thoughts and the collectivism of ideas and reasonings, which stem from a deep commitment and alignment of purpose from all stakeholders, most importantly, the young population of any country or social setting and context.

I have previously expressed my strong trust in the judgment of youths, believing in them as catalysts of progress, movers of growth, development, and eventual prosperity. They represent the idealness of our political, corporate, and informal communities, and their energy, brilliance, and strong will are assets to the country. More importantly, I have relentlessly preached for the importance of ethical leadership and flooding our political space with persons of integrity and good conscience.

I keep this understanding alive, and wish to commend Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo state for raising similar charges and conviction at Precious Cornerstone University, Ibadan, at its third convocation ceremony held recently. He emphasised the importance of young people engaging in politics for the benefit of today and the future of the country, – and I see it as a very relevant charge for the fresh graduates.

The oft-maligned realm of politics is, in truth, a noble pursuit – one that demands the finest minds and talents our society has to offer. What defines a sector is not its intrinsic nature, but the character of those who steer its affairs, – – a truth also applicable to politics, – so, there is absolutely nothing ignoble about politics. Personally, I have a career and have excelled as a member of academia and a religious leader and scholar. Although these areas seem unrelated to politics, yet, I recognise that the call to serve one’s nation transcends disciplinary boundaries, – when a nation desires one’s service, it must be answered, and this yield is only achievable through politics and its instruments.

Yet, this instrument is often tarnished by the inertia of the status quo. The existing power structure is truly entrenched and resistant to change, and this presents a formidable challenge. However, I firmly believe that transformation can begin with us, – with a unified resolve to reorganise and improve. This conviction is not naïve idealism, but a pragmatic recognition that the collective will can reshape the course of our history. As well, I am in the know that the pathway to meaningful change is rarely paved with gold, but often littered with financial commitments and some obstacles.

Truly, running for public office requires a hefty financial investment, a luxury not typically afforded in advanced democracies. Still, I firmly believe these resources can be allocated with wisdom and accountability. However, when we encourage young people to participate actively, it’s unrealistic to expect them to keep pace with the high-stakes monetary games and showmanship that often define political aspirations. This glaring mismatch needs a serious rethink. The question is not the cost, but the value we assign to our collective future.

Particularly, I urge political parties in Oyo State to champion a financial revolution in Oyo State’s politics. The hefty price tags attached to party tickets and other logistics are major turn-offs for young people eager to participate. If we genuinely want the youths to come around, we must create a level playing field where their ideas, not deep pockets, are the currency. I urge that the political parties extend that vision as preached at the Precious Cornerstone University’s Convocation, to reforming our political scene, and dissociate politics from excessive financial burdens, as well allow talented individuals to contribute without being weighed down by monetary constraints.

Notwithstanding, I wish to charge Nigerians, especially the good people of Oyo state, to rededicate and recommit to active political participation and awareness. There are no shortcuts to having a society that responds to our immediate and long-term desires; we must participate and not stay on the sidelines or act as spectators. Young people must especially feel hungry and thirsty to be part of the process at all times, and subscribe to good character, integrity, and accountability. We can have an Oyo State governance structure that serves its people squarely according to their expectations and needs, and not the privileged few.

This is a realistic goal, achievable with gentlemen and women of conscience. It is a future within our grasp, which demands our collective resolve to build a nation worthy of our highest aspirations. The question is not whether we can achieve this ideal, but whether we will.