Aisha Yesufu makes startling admission: ‘I am a politician’
After years of vehement denial and steadfast activism, Aisha Yesufu, a prominent Nigerian figure known for her vocal advocacy and unyielding stance on political issues, has publicly declared herself a politician. In a tweet posted on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, Yesufu made a momentous announcement that marks a significant departure from her previous assertions.
In her tweet, Yesufu boldly stated, “I am a politician. All my life I have made choices. I am into Nigerian Politics and on my watch and in places I operate from, I will ensure it is clean.” This declaration, shared on her official Twitter account, stands in stark contrast to her longstanding claim of not being involved in politics, despite her active support for various political candidates, including Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election.
Aisha Yesufu has been a towering figure in Nigeria activism, having co-founded the Bring Back Our Girls campaign and played a pivotal role in the End SARS protests. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and good governance has earned her widespread respect and admiration across the country.
Despite her deep involvement in political campaigns and advocacy for candidates, Yesufu has consistently maintained that her actions were driven solely by her activism and the pursuit of positive change in Nigeria. Her support for Peter Obi during the 2023 general election was particularly noteworthy, as she utilized her platform to galvanize young Nigerians and champion issues such as corruption and inefficiency in governance.
However, Yesufu’s recent admission of being a politician signifies a strategic shift in her approach to effecting political and social change in Nigeria. By openly embracing her role as a politician, she aims to directly influence the political landscape and ensure integrity within the Nigerian political arena.
In her tweet, Yesufu emphasized the necessity of active participation in politics, rejecting any notion of shame or regret associated with political engagement. “Any talk of being ashamed of politics or regretting politics, count me out,” she asserted. “If you say Nigerian politics is dirty, roll up the sleeves let’s get it clean. Doing nothing never solves anything,” she added, reaffirming her commitment to driving positive change through political involvement.
Aisha Yesufu’s declaration has sparked widespread discussion and debate across social media platforms and within political circles. While some have applauded her courage and determination to effect change from within the political system, others have expressed skepticism and concern about the challenges she may face in navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
As she embarks on this new chapter in her journey, Aisha Yesufu’s declaration underscores the evolving nature of Nigerian politics and the growing influence of activists-turned-politicians in shaping the country’s future. Whether her transition to politics will yield the desired results remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Aisha Yesufu’s bold declaration has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape.
