ANAMBRA YOUTHS: THE ODDS ARE IN OUR FAVOUR

Osita Ozalagba

One of the basic tenets a Christian is accustomed with, is the allegory contained in the book of Ecclesiastes chapter 3, “there is time for everything”. A time to be born and a time to die.

For me and many others who see from the lens of deep wisdom and instructive knowledge, I think it is the time of “becoming” for the youths of Anambra State cum Nigeria.

The time has come when the responsibility of redefining Nigeria should be rested on the shoulders of her youths. When I say youth, I do not say mediocres or political jobbers, I am talking of sagacious youths; outstanding and brilliant youths who have distinguished themselves in their various fields of endeavours.

I hear some of our youth leaders talk about youth involvement in governance, it’s something I think is outdated. Our message today should be nothing short of youth take-over of power.

Our forebears have greatly disappointed us. For whatever reason, those who took the mantle of leadership from 1960 to date, has failed Nigeria, and it is time to right the wrong. It is my hope that Anambra 2021 will be a clear demonstration of that fact.

Youth involvement in politics I must say has been addressed by the incumbent Governor of Anambra State. Today in Anambra state, those running virtually all the vital offices in Government are the youths. Right from the economy, to the state internal revenue and healthcare are run by the youths. For me, Gov. Willie has achieved over 50% of youth involvement in governance. It is therefore, nolonger an issue for discuss.

As a foremost youth leader in Anambra State, I owe it as duty to tell our youths the truth, regardless of whose ox is gored. As Sen. Dino Melaye, would always say, “You speak the truth, you die; if you lie you will also die.” I have decided to stand by the truth and tell our youths the raw truth – IT IS OUR TIME OF BECOMING!

I enjoin you not be rattled by the flamboyant dossier they brandish about, don’t be worried. What is needed to lead are not those big degrees but a willing mind and a willing hand. We have very noble youths who will take us to the point of el dorado.

We should not gamble it, we should not treat this with levity, it is time to put on our thinking cap. If a youth doesn’t take over the leadership of Anambra State next year, it would then mean that a generation has been dispossessed. A generation of bright minds who ordinarily should be addressing issues of governance; have been reduced to mere political thugs and Facebook media gladiators.

Anambra youths, wake up! The time is now. Let’s shun the money politics and install our own to the seat of power.

Disregard the selfish call on us to support the parting generation. Those who make this call, do so to fulfill their very selfish desire not because they care about you.

I stand with a “Youth Governor” come November 2021.

Daalu nu.

Osita Kingsley Ozalagba,
Chairman BOT ASATU Youth Wing
Former President Asatu Youth Wing,
Former Deputy State Youth Leader APGA.