Awolowo was (37), Akintola (36), Ahmadu Bello (36) Balewa (34)
and Okotie-Eboh (27), Enahoro (27) led the struggle for independence after the
death of Macaulay. Only Zik was 42 at the time. In 1966, the first coup was led
by: Kaduna Nzeogwu (29) and countered by Murtala Mohammed (28), Theophilus
Danjuma (28), Babangida (25), Nanven Garba (23), Sani Abacha (23), Shehu Musa
Yaradua (23), and brought into power Gowon (32), Ojukwu (33), Obasanjo (29), Buhari (24).
Most of the military
administrators who governed the states under the successive military regimes,
most of whom are governors now, were under 30 years. The brief democratic
dispensation which interjected the military interregnums also saw the House of
Representatives in particular populated by majority of members under 30 years
as well as some senators. Under 30s were also not in short supply with
appointments, we have examples of MT Mbu who became foreign affairs minister at
23 and Pat Utomi who became a presidential adviser at 27 and so on and so forth.
NOW: Why is it that this
age bracket is today still sleeping in 3 seater chairs in their parents’ homes?
Why is it that this age bracket is today still collecting pocket money from
their parents? Why is it that this age bracket is today still writing JAMB? Why
is it that this age bracket is today still sagging their trousers? Why is it
that this age bracket is today still searching for jobs, not yet married? Why
is it that this age bracket is today no longer qualified to even be leaders of
youth wings of political parties? Why is it that this age bracket is today so
docile? Why is it that this age bracket is today still incapable of feeding
itself? Why is it that this age bracket is today barred by law from even
aspiring to certain political offices? Why is it that this age bracket is today
incapacitated, unwilling, unable and incapable of asking questions?
It is time to make a difference. Let’s get serious, get focus and
get discipline!
Write up by Adeyemi Adeniyi
