Popular Nollywood actor Olumide Owuru has opened up about his decision to enter politics during the 2023 elections, sharing his hopes for a better Nigeria and his reasons for wanting to drive change.
Speaking on the Nollywood On Radio podcast with journalist Seun Olekutiyi, Owuru explained that his motivation stemmed from dissatisfaction with the current state of the country, where many sectors, apart from entertainment and sports, seem to be declining.
His Decision to Run for Office
In February 2023, Owuru announced his bid to represent the Surulere Constituency 1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly under the Labour Party (LP). However, his candidacy sparked debate online after his name did not appear on the electoral results sheet. Desmond Elliot, running under the All Progressives Congress (APC), eventually retained the seat.
Despite the setback, Owuru remained optimistic and passionate about making a difference, stating:
“We just need to be a part of our affairs. I want to live in Nigeria; I want to raise my family in a Nigeria that is good, that is a land of opportunities.”
Concern for Nigeria’s Decline
The actor lamented the decline of most sectors in the country, comparing it to the better conditions he experienced growing up:
“I know how things were when I was growing up, and it is just sad to see that we are on a downward spiral. Almost nothing, minus the entertainment industry, sports, and a few other industries, has anything positive. Everything else just seems to be nosediving.”
A Call for Collective Responsibility
Owuru emphasized the importance of collective involvement in addressing Nigeria’s challenges, urging citizens to take an active role in shaping the country’s future.
“I actually want to be a part of the people that are going to make some form of change in society,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to creating a Nigeria where opportunities abound for all.
Owuru’s passion for change reflects the growing call among young Nigerians for leadership that prioritizes progress, accountability, and collective prosperity.
