A 98-year-old voter at Iyin-Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti, Pa Joseph Adu has said that the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo inspired his participation in political activities as an individual.

Adu disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after casting his vote at Ward 2, Unit 003, in Iyin-Ekiti on Saturday.

He said the late Awolowo was a courageous, principled politician with an unequal affection for the welfare and wellbeing of the masses.

He said, being an ardent follower of Awolowo’s party, the Action Group (AG), the impression about the leader of AG always attracted him to participate in elections.

He noted that Awolowo earned enormous respect, recognition and confidence from the people, especially within the South West region because of what he achieved.

Adu, a farmer, who expressed regrets for not passing through formal education, said being an Awolowo’s supporter as a young man afforded him many socio-economic opportunities and benefits.

The nonagenarian said his adoration for Awolowo accounted for his resolve to ensure that his children all had the best of education.

“The charisma and versatility of Awolowo were second to none, though. I cannot read and write, but I always followed Awolowo’s political programmes and campaigns through the radio and television.

“It was always a delight to see Awolowo campaigning in those days. His vision for a civilised and prosperous Nigeria was second to none.

“As a young man, I could travel far distances just to witness Awolowo’s campaign; that showed the level of my admiration for him then,” he said.

Adu expressed regrets for not taking the opportunity of the Awolowo’s free education policy then to be educated.

“Our parents were farmers, so I was trained in that direction, and that was why I engaged in farming till now,” he said.

Adu, who expressed optimism that Nigeria would get better and stronger socially and economically, in spite of the domestic and national challenges, said he would continue to exercise his franchise as long as he lives.

“I have had confidence in the democratic system of governance since my childhood, and as far as I have the energy, I will continue to do my part as a loyal and patriotic citizen,” he said.

When asked to compare politics of those years and now, Adu said, “Politicians of the Awolowo’s era placed more priority on good governance.

“The campaign then was less of too much security involvement, and you only needed to have good policies and programmes which would earn you good followership,” he said.

“Our present leaders are also trying their best; the job cannot be done at once, especially since the issue of kidnapping and banditry is giving both the government and the governed a sleepless night.

“The problems have been compounded from one government to another, and it is only through prayers and strong political will that we can come out of these challenges.

“I think we citizens also have roles to support the government by exposing the bad elements amongst us so that those involved in these dastardly acts and their accomplices would be apprehended and punished,” he said. (NAN)