A renowned human rights advocate and community leader, Chief Niyi Aborisade, has declared that his venture into politics is not driven by ambition, but by a deep sense of calling and unwavering love for Nigeria, and Oyo State in particular.
Aborisade is a governorship aspirant in Oyo State in 2027 on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party [PDP].
Speaking during a fundraising programme for his governorship programme in the United Kingdom, Aborisade traced his journey from civic activism abroad to grassroots political involvement in Nigeria, describing it as a divine assignment rather than a career move.
‘’Politics is more than just ambition, it is a calling,” he said. “Just as some are called to be pastors or imams, I believe I have been called to serve my people through politics. That’s why I am not afraid of challenges or dangers that come with it.”
Chief Aborisade, who spent many years abroad, shared how his passion for Nigeria never waned, even while living outside the country. His civic engagement began with the co-founding of Civil Liberty Watch and he later founded Egbe Omo Yoruba in Germany, and National Movement for Positive Change in the United Kingdom, aimed at promoting Yoruba culture and defending the integrity of Yoruba youth in the diaspora.
“At that time, I was not even thinking of politics. We simply wanted to help our country and protect our cultural values abroad.Later, I founded the National Movement for Positive Change, a human rights organisation, again driven by the same love for Nigeria”,he explained.
Even during turbulent periods in Nigeria’s political history, including the Abacha era, Aborisade was active in advocacy and mobilisation efforts that bridged communities and attracted international attention to the plight of Nigerians.
Aborisade shared personal stories that reflected his courage and sense of purpose. He recalled a time when he traveled through dangerous terrain during a political campaign in Oyo State without security, trusting in his calling and divine protection.
“At 1:30 a.m., I was in a forest on our way to Iseyin after a campaign..People were afraid, but I told them not to worry. When God is behind you, His protection is sure”, he recounted.
He urged others to overcome fear and step into leadership roles with confidence and integrity.
“If we don’t volunteer ourselves to fix this country, who will? We have seen how other nations are governed, and we can bring that knowledge home. It won’t be easy, but we will succeed,” he affirmed.
Aborisade emphasised the need for a new wave of leadership rooted in morality and service, contrasting godly politicians with those driven by selfish interests.
He said: “There’s a big difference between an ungodly politician and a Godly one. It all depends on the source of your power. If your source is pure, your leadership will reflect that.”
He called on fellow Nigerians, especially the youth, to step up, believe in themselves, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
He stated: “Before I became Mogaji (family head), we used to fear the unknown. But once I stepped into the role, that fear disappeared. That’s how leadership works, you don’t run away from challenges; you confront them with courage and conviction.”
With deep roots in grassroots activism, cultural advocacy, and political engagement, Chief Niyi Aborisade declares that he is ready to bring about the positive change that Oyo State and Nigeria urgently need.
“I believe I am in a position to make that change, not by empty promises, but through leadership built on love, service, and the fear of God”, he added.
