In this exclusive interview with newly elected All Progressives Congress, APC South-West Youth Leader, Daramola Adesuyi, a lawyer, the affable, young politician traces his emergence for the exalted office to the staunch support given him by the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. He also dwells on other sundry issues pertaining to party politics.
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In this interview, he discusses the factors that made his emergency as the youngest APC South West Zonal Youth Leader possible, sincerely appreciated the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, alongside the leadership of APC, for finding him worthy and approving his candidacy.
As the youngest Zonal Youth Leader, what factors made this possible?
First and foremost, I return all glory to God for the grace and privilege of attaining this position. I also sincerely appreciate our leader, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, APC Governors of the South-West states, alongside the leadership of our great party across the SouthWest, for finding me worthy and approving my candidacy.
Becoming the youngest Zonal Youth Leader did not happen overnight. It was the product of intentional commitment, consistency, active participation, loyalty to the party and the leaders, and meaningful engagement with people across different levels.
As a young person growing within the political structure, I remained deliberate about learning, contributing, building relationships, and adding value wherever I found myself. These efforts gradually created visibility and trust, which eventually led to the recommendations presented to Mr. Governor.
I remain grateful to everyone who believed in my capacity, supported my journey, and encouraged my aspirations. Their confidence in me remains both humbling and motivating.
How would you describe Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State?
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is a strategic, and highly intentional leader whose full potential is still unfolding before the people of Ondo State. His calm and quiet disposition has often been misunderstood by many, but those who work closely with him understand that he is well informed and purposeful administrator.
He is deliberate in decision-making, attentive to detail and committed to implementing people-oriented policies that will have lasting impact.
One remarkable quality about Governor Aiyedatiwa is his belief in young people and his willingness to create opportunities for them to grow and contribute meaningfully. Personally, I remain humbled by the confidence he showed in me; from approving my nomination, to paying for my form and offering fatherly advice and guidance throughout the process. Those gestures are unforgettable and continue to inspire me.
Like every administration, there are challenges, but fairness demands that we acknowledge the leadership capacity, political maturity and administrative wisdom Governor Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated. In many ways, his leadership style has exceeded the expectations many initially had of him.
What advice do you have for the youths?
My message to young people is simple; we must remain courageous, hopeful and patriotic despite the challenges confronting our nation. The realities may be difficult, but giving up on our country should never be an option. Nation-building requires resilience, sacrifice and the collective commitment of its citizens, especially the youth. Truly, there is no place like home.
Secondly, young people must begin to see politics and governance as part of their civic responsibility rather than something to stay away from. Political decisions shape our daily lives, influence economic opportunities, determine policies and define the future of our society. For this reason, youths must become more intentional about participating in governance, contributing their ideas and taking active roles in leadership. The future we desire can only be achieved when responsible, visionary, and value-driven young people decide to engage and make a difference.