Should Youths and Women Run for the Hills? The Quirky Quandary of Nigerian Politics

In the grand, bustling bazaar that is Nigerian politics, where the stakes are as high as the temperatures, recent events have left some pondering a peculiar question: Should our bright-eyed youths and valiant women consider a career in, say, basket weaving instead of navigating the choppy waters of public office?

Let’s start with Dr. Betta Edu, our former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, whose recent suspension over alleged misappropriation of funds has set tongues wagging faster than a cheetah on a caffeine buzz. It’s a tale as old as time - or at least as old as the concept of money - but with a spicy Nigerian twist. Accusations? Check. Drama? Check. A suspenseful investigation? Double check.

Then, there’s the broader question: Is Nigerian politics playing a game of ‘Whack-a-Mole’ with female ministers? The suspensions of Dr. Edu and Ms. Halima Shehu have raised more eyebrows than a comedian at a botox convention. It's a tricky dance on the tightrope of transparency, and one can't help but wonder if there’s a hidden trapdoor for the uninitiated.

Now, let's add a pinch of humor to this simmering pot of political stew. Imagine a young, enthusiastic Nigerian, eyes sparkling with dreams of changing the world, only to be greeted with the equivalent of a political rollercoaster that has more loops than your grandmother's knitting. “Welcome aboard, please fasten your seatbelt, and remember, integrity is optional but recommended for smoother ride quality!”

But wait, there’s more! Consider the curious case of Kemi Adeosun, the ex-Finance Minister with a resume brighter than a Lagos streetlamp, who tripped over a forged NYSC certificate. It's like scoring an own goal in the World Cup final – an impressive feat, but not exactly what you were aiming for.

So, should the young and female of Nigeria consider a tactical retreat from the political arena? Perhaps take up something less hazardous, like lion taming or volcano surfing? Well, not quite.

Let’s not forget, politics, much like a Nollywood drama, is full of twists, turns, and the occasional over-the-top plot twist. It’s a realm where challenges are as abundant as the famed Nigerian Jollof, and resilience is the secret ingredient.

In a nutshell, while the current political landscape might seem as inviting as a cactus hug, it’s also a platform for change. Yes, the waters are choppy, but they’re also ripe for navigating by those armed with integrity, a sense of humor, and maybe a sturdy life jacket, just in case.

So, to the youths and women of Nigeria, don’t shy away from public office. Who knows, with a mix of courage, humor, and a dash of savvy, you might just be the breath of fresh air that sweeps the corridors of power. After all, if Nigerian politics has taught us anything, it’s that with a sprinkle of humor and a dollop of resilience, anything is possible!

Thank you.

Aderogba Otunla