As Nigeria prepares for the forthcoming general elections, the National Public Relations Officer of the Federation of Ogbomoso Students’ Union (FOGSU), Olayiwola David Sunday, has called on citizens, particularly youths and students, to embrace unity, accountability, peaceful political participation, and responsible leadership in the interest of the nation’s future.
Sunday, in a message ahead of the elections, described the period as a defining moment for Nigeria, stressing that the decisions made
citizens today would significantly shape the country’s future.
He noted that the electioneering period should not be characterised
selfish interests, hatred, division, or oppression, but
wisdom, transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to national development.
According to him, leadership goes beyond campaign promises and political ambition, emphasising that true leadership requires responsibility, sacrifice, and dedicated service to humanity.
He urged Nigerians, especially young people and students, not to compromise their conscience for temporary benefits but to prioritise the long-term development of the country and the welfare of future generations.
“The future of Nigeria depends greatly on the choices we make today. We must look beyond temporary gains and make decisions that will secure a better future for generations yet unborn,” he stated.
Addressing political aspirants contesting for various offices, Sunday reminded them that political power is temporary, while the impact of their leadership can leave lasting legacies.
He urged aspiring leaders to pursue their ambitions with integrity, humility, honesty, competence, and transparency, rather than relying on intimidation, manipulation, tribalism, religious sentiments, or pride.
He further stressed that the true measure of leadership lies not in the number of people who fear a leader but in the number of lives positively transformed through their leadership.
Nigeria Needs Leaders Who Unite, Not Divide
Sunday maintained that Nigeria needs leaders who will listen to the people, promote justice and fairness, and create opportunities for citizens regardless of their ethnic, religious, or cultural backgrounds.
He described the country’s diversity as a source of strength, urging political leaders and their supporters to resist any attempt to turn ethnic, religious, or cultural differences into instruments of hatred and division.
He also called on emerging leaders to remain humble and respectful, regardless of their political positions or social status, noting that every successful leader was once an unknown individual.
According to him, inclusive leadership requires carrying everyone along, respecting differing opinions, and promoting a strong sense of belonging among the people.
“Leadership without humanity is empty. We must learn to value peace, mutual respect, and collective progress above personal interests,” he added.
Youths Must Reject Political Violence and Discrimination
The FOGSU National PRO also called on Nigerian youths to reject ethnic discrimination, religious intolerance, political violence, and every form of social division.
He emphasised that Nigeria belongs to all Nigerians and that no citizen should be subjected to discrimination because of tribe, religion, gender, or social status.
He further advocated equality before the law, fairness in governance, and justice for all citizens, irrespective of their background or political affiliation.
Sunday noted that the forthcoming elections should serve as an opportunity to strengthen national unity and democratic values rather than create divisions among Nigerians.
He encouraged citizens and political actors to embrace issue-based politics, stressing the need to prioritise competence over sentiments, character over empty promises, and public service over selfish ambition.
Our Choices Today Will Define Tomorrow
Reflecting on the responsibility of the present generation, Sunday warned that history would judge Nigerians
the decisions they make and the contributions they offer towards building a peaceful, prosperous, and united nation.
He therefore urged citizens to participate responsibly in the democratic process and remain committed to the ideals of justice, peace, accountability, and national development.
He concluded with a call for Nigerians to resist the misuse of power, reject greed, and refuse to exchange the country’s future for temporary political or personal benefits.
He expressed hope for a Nigeria where justice, peace, unity, progress, and equality would become enduring realities for every citizen.
He also called for collective commitment to building a nation where leadership is defined
service, governance
accountability, and national progress
the wellbeing of the people.
He concluded with prayers for God’s blessings upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria, its leaders, youths, students, and all citizens working towards peace, unity, and national development.
BY: OLAYIWOLA DAVID SUNDAY
FOGSU NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (P.R.O.)
