AAC’s Esan Tells NUJ Forum: Nigeria Has an Excess of Politicians, a Deficit of True Leaders

The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate for the upcoming Osun State election, Comrade Olajide Esan, appeared at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Guest Forum in Osogbo on Tuesday, where he made a strong case for a new brand of leadership in the country and the state.

Esan, who is popularly known as ‘The Youth Governor,’ addressed journalists and the public at the NUJ Press Centre, outlining his vision for Osun State ahead of the August 15th governorship election.

During the interactive session, the AAC flagbearer argued that Nigeria’s problem is not a lack of politicians but a deficiency in genuine leadership. “Nigeria lacks leaders, not politicians,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to breaking the cycle of recycled political failures.

Esan laid out his policy agenda under his manifesto, titled “A Covenant with the People of Osun.” He promised to introduce a technology-driven administration that prioritizes transparency and accountability, including a public finance dashboard for real-time monitoring of government spending.

Central to his campaign is a focus on youth empowerment and job creation. He proposed the creation of a Youth Infrastructure Corps and massive investments in agriculture through the Osun Agro Trade Economic Plan to tackle unemployment and build a self-reliant state.

The AAC candidate also assured the electorate of his commitment to participatory governance and the welfare of all citizens. He stated that if elected, his administration would prioritize revolutionary education, free healthcare, and the protection of citizens’ rights through a proposed Ministry of Citizens’ Rights.

Esan appealed to the people of Osun to move away from money politics and vote for competence and ideological change, positioning himself as the candidate to rescue the state from elite capture and ensure the prosperity of every Osun family.