Olajide Esan, the African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in the upcoming Osun State election, has called for sweeping reforms to Nigeria’s political system, arguing that the current structure discourages competent citizens from seeking public office. Speaking at the Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Guest Platform on Tuesday, Esan outlined a vision for governance rooted in participatory democracy, economic development, and social welfare. He emphasized that the existing political framework favours those who treat politics as a business rather than a public service, a system he believes is unsustainable and unproductive.
Esan stated that Nigeria’s political leadership since 1999 has failed to deliver meaningful development, with leaders often being recycled and nepotism becoming deeply entrenched. “Leadership should be based on service and not imposition. Nigeria has too many politicians but not leaders,” he said. He criticized the manipulation of poverty and ignorance to influence voters, urging for stronger interfaith relationships to foster unity and reduce societal divisions. His campaign positions reflect a commitment to inclusive governance that empowers citizens and prioritizes their needs.
A key part of his vision includes devoting his entire salary to the welfare of senior citizens if elected, demonstrating a personal commitment to social equity. He also proposed the creation of a comprehensive Osun residents’ database to improve planning and service delivery across the state. Additionally, Esan unveiled a plan for an Osun Child Trust Fund, under which every child born in the state would receive a dedicated investment account that grows until age 18, providing support for higher education or entrepreneurial ventures.
On traditional institutions, Esan advocated for a defined percentage of local government revenue to be allocated to traditional rulers to enhance their role in community development, while ensuring they remain neutral and free from partisan politics. In agriculture, he promoted an agro-based economy and cautioned against the hasty adoption of genetically modified organisms, urging Africa to carefully assess such technologies before widespread use. He also raised concerns about illegal mining, alleging that its benefits are concentrated in the hands of a few, while the people of Osun State are left out.
“Leaders are the ones benefitting from the proceeds of illegal mining. Curtailing illegal mining is part of our manifesto because the proceeds of mining are meant for the people of Osun State,” Esan said. His campaign reflects a broader push for transparency, accountability, and equitable development. As the Osun governorship race intensifies, Esan’s proposals position him as a candidate focused on structural change and citizen empowerment, signaling a potential shift in how governance is approached in the state.
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