Nollywood actor Olumide Oworu has stated that poor governance and an aging political class motivated his decision to pursue a career in partisan politics. In a recent interview with Naija FM Lagos, the 31-year-old explained that his desire to influence policy stems from a direct concern for Nigeria’s future and his own family.
Oworu, who unsuccessfully contested the Lagos State House of Assembly seat for Surulere 1 Constituency under the Labour Party banner in the 2023 elections, described a nation in decline. He contrasted Nigeria’s current trajectory with his childhood experiences, stating that continuous deterioration made direct involvement necessary. “I decided to join politics because of how the country is going,” he said. “I know how Nigeria was when I was younger, but now, things keep getting worse. And I want to start a family and raise my kids here.”
A core part of his argument centered on the tangible impact of policy on all citizens, regardless of profession. He stressed that ineffective policymaking affects him as much as any ordinary Nigerian. “Whatever policy that is being enacted, it would ultimately affect me like every other common person,” Oworu noted.
He further cited the demographic disconnect between leaders and the population as a critical factor. “Most of the present crops of politicians are aging out,” he explained, adding that long-term policy decisions made today will disproportionately impact younger generations. “Whatever policy they are making today, it is me and my friends who will be at the receiving end tomorrow.”
Oworu lost the 2023 legislative race to incumbent Desmond Elliott. However, he emphasized that this electoral setback has not diminished his commitment to public service. His entry reflects a broader trend of influential figures from Nigeria’s creative industries, particularly Nollywood, seeking formal political roles. His rationale underscores persistent calls for generational renewal in Nigerian politics, highlighting the frustration of young professionals who feel excluded from decisions shaping their future.
Despite the defeat, Oworu’s focus remains on contributing to policy formulation. His experience illustrates the intersection of celebrity influence and political ambition in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape, signaling that his engagement in partisan politics is a long-term endeavor rather than a single electoral contest.
