Former Senator and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has challenged Nigerians particularly those in their 30s, 40s, and 50s to move beyond online criticism and actively participate in partisan politics.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Sani criticized the trend of politically conscious citizens limiting their engagement to social media commentary while younger individuals occupy elective offices.
He described it as ironic that citizens in their middle years spend time criticizing elected officials on Facebook and Instagram, while local government chairmen and lawmakers in their twenties are the ones holding actual political power.
Sani argued that surveys highlighting youth engagement on social media miss the point, stressing that meaningful change requires physical political participation.
He urged those who believe they can offer better leadership to register with political parties and contest elections rather than remaining spectators.
Dismissing financial constraints as an excuse, the former lawmaker noted that many current leaders began their journeys without wealth or influence.
He urged aspiring leaders not to be intimidated, emphasizing that perseverance and commitment are the keys to rising through the political system.