Ibadan based comedian, Olakunle Akinsete popularly known as Shete has disclosed why he is venturing into politics to contest for a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly.
He disclosed that his active involvement in politics is as a result of the support he has been receiving from close relatives and loved ones, stating that the support has greatly inspired him into accepting the call to duty of serving the people of Ibadan South-West constituency II. He added that the move was pre-planned.
He said, “I feel it is time to fully get involved in the art of politicking and with the backing of my people, family members and supporters, it is something I have always wanted to do. I feel the time is right now”.
The Ibadan based comedian made these submissions while featuring on a weekly radio show, Parrot Xtra/Ayekooto on Radio anchored by Olayinka Agboola and broadcast live on Splash 105.5FM, Felele Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State on Tuesday.
Olakunle Akinshete further stated that though his origin might be traced to Ondo State but the law of the land does not prevent him from holding any public office in the country.
“Constitutionally, you become a citizen of a place if you were born or you have stayed there for a required number of years permitted by the constitution. I have lived in Ibadan, south-west of Nigerian for over 30 years; hence, I have the full right to contest for a political position in Ibadan”.
He further stated that he is optimistic of emerging victorious in the 2023 election despite the choice of the political party he is using to champion his cause.
He said, “Social Democratic Party (SDP) is a choice party, I believe it is time to represent the society of our dreams. Contesting for a seat in the House of Assembly to represent Ibadan South west constituency II is a starting point for me because this is where fundamental laws of the country are made and it is a pivotal to good governance”.
He further disclosed that his parents fully supported his ambition of going into the entertainment industry.
“My parents supported my ambition and it was a smooth ride for me unlike others whose parent objected to their career path as entertainers”.
Shete also stated that the temporarily suspension of his popular annual comedy show was due to his full participation in politics while assuring his fans that the program will be back in a better way.
Speaking further on how he has been able to influence lives with his comedy show, “I have been able to groom other people positively, most of them are coming back and we all stay back together to build Ibadan into a new bride”.
He, however, encouraged Nigerian youths to be positive minded, diligent and embrace vocational skills in order to earn an honest living.
Packaged by Dare Raji, Timilehin Fasoro and Mayowa Owogbade
