Afe Babalola Advocates for a Return to Politics as a Service, Not a Business

During the 11th convocation ceremony of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), the institution’s founder, Afe Babalola, expressed concerns over the increasing allure of politics as a more lucrative industry than education in Nigeria.

The legal icon shared a disheartening anecdote of a first-class graduate who, despite earning a master’s degree, chose not to pursue further studies after witnessing a secondary school classmate achieve financial success in politics.

Babalola recounted his offer of a scholarship for the graduate to pursue a PhD after completing his master’s degree but was surprised by the young man’s decision to delve into politics instead.

The graduate explained that his secondary school classmate, who hadn’t attended university, was thriving in politics, driving cars, and owning a house. Babalola found this shift disheartening and lamented the commercialization of politics in Nigeria.

While not opposing political aspirations, he stressed that contemporary politics often prioritises personal gain over public service.

Babalola emphasised the need for politics to serve the public’s interests rather than being a money-making venture.

He also criticised the absence of strong leadership and quality education in the nation. Babalola argued that the country requires a focus on improving the quality of education, as it plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals and fostering effective leadership.

Babalola’s remarks shed light on the changing perceptions of politics and education in Nigeria, emphasising the need for a shift towards public service and quality education to address the country’s challenges.

Source: Businessday NG