Elder statesman and former Secretary-General of the Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE), Dr. Kunle Olajide, has urged the federal and state governments to take decisive action in addressing poverty, which he described as the root cause of money-driven politics in Nigeria.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Thursday during a homecoming reception organised by the Ekiti Council of Elders in his honour, Olajide decried the prevalence of vote-buying and moneybag politics, attributing it to widespread economic hardship. He stressed the need for immediate interventions to improve the living conditions of Nigerians and discourage them from trading their votes for financial inducements.
The Ekiti Council of Elders conferred the Blue Cap honour on Olajide, a recognition reserved for distinguished elders aged 80 and above. The President of the Council, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, described Olajide as “an exemplary and valuable son of Ekiti,” commending his contributions to the Yoruba Council of Elders, particularly during his tenure as Secretary-General.
Oluwasanmi expressed optimism that Olajide’s return to Ekiti would further contribute to the development of the state. In response, Olajide appreciated the honour, stating that it reflected the core objectives of the YCE.
He further lamented the monetisation of Nigeria’s political process, calling on state governors and local government chairmen—who are closest to the grassroots—to take responsibility for alleviating poverty.
“Poverty is the fundamental problem. People are hungry, and when politicians come with money, they accept it out of desperation,” he said. “We must address poverty to curb vote-buying. State and local governments, as the tiers closest to the people, should prioritise citizens’ welfare rather than amassing wealth for the next election.”
Olajide also called for national support and prayers for President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a clear-headed leader navigating Nigeria through a complex governance landscape.
“Governing Nigeria is no small task; it is a country that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert, with diverse ethnic groups and interests,” he noted. “President Tinubu has demonstrated leadership, and given his success in administering Lagos—a mini-Nigeria—I am not surprised by his governance approach. We must continue to support and pray for him.”
On Tinubu’s political future, the elder statesman acknowledged that while the president has achievements to showcase, securing a second term would be a tough battle.
He also commended Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for his leadership and dedication, recalling his pivotal role in the creation of the state.
“Oyebanji knows Ekiti like the back of his hand and is working tirelessly for its progress,” Olajide remarked. “I urge all Ekiti sons and daughters, regardless of political affiliation, to support the governor’s vision for the state.”
His remarks underscored the need for good governance, economic empowerment, and political reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and improve the lives of its citizens.
