Seyi Awolowo, known for his participation in the Big Brother Naija reality show, has revealed his potential interest in delving into politics, influenced by the societal expectations associated with being a descendant of the iconic Awolowo lineage. In a recent interview on Channels TV’s ‘The Morning Brief’, the 33-year-old disclosed that despite his initial preference for a career in entertainment, the current state of affairs in Nigeria may lead him to reconsider.
As the grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s history as a nationalist and statesman, Seyi expressed his apprehension about the unfolding circumstances within the country. He articulated his desire for his family to thrive within Nigeria, citing his intention to provide them with an authentic Nigerian experience, untouched by the uncertainties of life in a foreign land.
“I would have loved not to get into politics but with the way it seems in the country, I might have to. I would just have liked to enjoy and be on the backbone of entertainment. But I have a family that I’m looking forward to growing in this country, I’m not trying to ‘japa’. I want them to experience Nigeria the way I experienced Nigeria,” Seyi conveyed.
Reflecting on the societal pressures exerted on him due to his family lineage, Seyi highlighted the common expectations associated with being an Awolowo descendant. From an early age, he encountered the notion that he was meant to emulate the intellectual pursuits of his grandfather, a responsibility that had been impressed upon him by numerous older individuals.
Seyi’s contemplation of a future in politics not only sheds light on the personal journey of a public figure but also amplifies the enduring influence of political legacies within the African context. As he navigates the prospect of venturing into the political sphere, Seyi’s experiences and aspirations mirror the complex intertwining of familial heritage, societal expectations, and individual ambitions, resonating on a broader scale with aspiring leaders and the electorate in Nigeria and beyond.