Politics should not be a full-time career, says APGA chairman
The chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance asserts that politics should not be a full-time profession, advocating for political involvement alongside professional careers to ensure better governance.
Sly Ezeokenwa, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), recently emphasized that politics should not serve as a full-time career for those in government. During a media interaction held in Lagos, he articulated that professionals who maintain careers outside of politics are more likely to promote transparency and accountability within the governance system. This approach, he argued, helps to cultivate responsible political engagement and minimizes the temptation for corruption as well as the monetization of political positions.
Ezeokenwa elaborated on the party's philosophy of encouraging officials to uphold careers beyond political office, indicating that such a model discourages the notion of politics as a business venture. He pointed out that an over-reliance on political positions can lead to a culture where individuals trade nomination platforms for financial gain, undermining the integrity of the political process. Through this approach, APGA aims to instill a sense of responsibility among its members, prioritizing professional contributions over political dependency.
By promoting the idea that politics should complement professional careers, rather than replace them, the APGA seeks to initiate a change in how political participation is viewed in Nigeria. The chairmanβs statements reflect a broader concern about the state of politics in the country and the need for a system where leaders are held accountable not just by their political affiliations but also by their professional obligations, leading to more effective governance and public service.