Olumide Oworu Nigerian politics urges reform, calling out career politicians and godfatherism while promoting service-focused leadership

Nollywood actor Olumide Oworu has called for a fundamental change in Nigerian politics, criticising career politicians and the pervasive practice of godfatherism.

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Oworu made the comments on The Clarity Zone podcast, explaining that politics in Nigeria should prioritise service and governance rather than personal ambition.

“Politics is two things systems and service. I think the type of politics and the idea of who a politician is, is why a lot of young people shy away from it,” Oworu said.

“Politics is not supposed to be a career. But it is for a lot of people in Nigeria, and that is the issue. We have career politicians… The entirety of your existence is hinged on getting into this office.”

The actor, who contested for a House of Assembly seat in 2023, also emphasised that political godfatherism undermines meaningful leadership.

“I don’t think that godfatherism should be in politics but sadly, a lot of politicians have godfathers because of the style of politics we practice. We need to change that. What should matter should be capacity,” Oworu stated.

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Oworu concluded by urging Nigerian politicians and aspiring leaders to prioritise the needs of citizens over personal gain, describing the current political style as a barrier to genuine development.