- Safiu Kehinde
The Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, has condemned the growing trend of established politicians pushing their children, especially sons, to contest in the upcoming local government elections in Lagos.
Olusi, in an interview on Tuesday, described the development as “alarming,” warning that it signals a dangerous shift in Nigeria’s political culture, where public office is increasingly treated as an inheritance rather than a calling.
“This is part of what is wrong in this country that all of us are not addressing,
“My father did not bring me into politics. In our time, your career was determined by your own interests or societal contribution—not because your parents were politicians.” he said.
According to Lagos Reporter, the GAC Chairman revealed that at least three prominent figures in Lagos politics are currently backing their sons for elective positions on Lagos Island.
They allegedly include former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and former Vice Chairman Yemisi Coker.
“In the Fourth Republic, this wasn’t so common. We were the ones who asked Awolowo’s son, Oluwole, to serve as a councilor, and even then, his father declined. Now, things have changed drastically,” he remarked.
The GAC chairman linked this trend to the perception that politics is now a pathway to wealth.
“Nowadays, everyone wants their children to become Honourables and Chairmen because they see politics as a money-making venture. That’s where we’ve all gone wrong.” he said
Olusi shifted the blame on the legacy of military rule, particularly under General Ibrahim Babangida’s administration, which, he said, handed power to those primarily motivated by financial gain rather than public service.
He further criticized the increasing practice of aspiring politicians offering money for endorsements despite lacking any record of community leadership or civic engagement.
“Anyone who wants to serve should have a clear track record—from school to their community,
“But these days, someone embezzles funds, and the next advice they get is to run for office.” he said
Olusi concluded by urging the media to spotlight this issue and educate the public on the long-term dangers of political dynasties eroding the integrity of grassroots governance.