The Nation reports that former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised the youth to democratically wrest leadership from the old guards since they are unwilling to quit the stage. The ex-President, who spoke on Saturday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, at the Youth Governance Dialogue organized to mark this year’s International Youth Day, urged the youth to stop complaining, “moaning and agonizing”. He advised them to get ready to fit into elective offices as there were moves now to lower the age for President, Governor and National Assembly.
”I joined politics from the top. The only position I contested for is President, but I had a track record of achievements, which led to that. Nobody will choose you; you have to choose yourself. Why should you have to become president at the age of 40? “Why can’t you become president at the age of 35? Why can’t you become president at the age of 30? General Gowon became Head of State at 33. I became Head of State at 39. And it is because of my track record, and thanks to Abacha (the late Gen. Sani Abacha) for putting me in jail.”
”Those were the reasons why I had the opportunity to come back as elected President. The point is this – how are you prepared? Are you really prepared?” You should engage in things that will bring about unity and integration. You see yourselves as Nigerians and one family instead of pursuing things that could divide the country.”