In a thought-provoking video, Faruq Abbas, a lawyer, politician and influencer in Osun State, Nigeria, encouraged local leaders and residents to derive valuable lessons from the unexpected and resilient trajectory of former U.S. President and President elect, Donald Trump. Highlighting Trump’s rise to power despite numerous setbacks and challenges, Abbas advocated for a renewed focus on persistence, engagement, authenticity, and issue-driven campaigns within Osun State’s political landscape.
Abbas opened with a bold assertion that Trump’s journey underscored the importance of never giving up, even in the face of adversity. He pointed to Trump’s initial lack of political experience, the establishment’s opposition, and his perseverance, which ultimately saw him rise as a defining figure in American politics. “For those of us in Osun State desiring better leadership, giving up on political reform isn’t an option,” Abbas emphasized. He urged locals to approach political change with a spirit of persistence, mirroring Trump’s determination.
Another crucial takeaway, Abbas noted, was Trump’s ability to engage directly with his audience. By making frequent public appearances and rallying his base, Trump exemplified how politicians should connect with their constituents. Abbas observed a lack of such engagement in Osun, where leaders rarely organise town hall meetings or consult their communities on pressing issues.
“Our leaders must actively connect with those they serve, not just during election season, but continuously,” he said, suggesting that local politicians leverage social media to foster transparency and interaction.
Abbas further argued that Trump’s success demonstrated that “politics is not all about money.” Despite being financially outmatched by his opponent, Trump triumphed by mobilizing his base and addressing voter concerns. This, Abbas said, should inspire aspiring leaders in Osun not to be intimidated by opponents with larger financial resources.
He also pointed to the significance of leaders who are hands-on and actively involved in governance. Trump’s direct involvement in crafting his public messages and his consistent stance on issues reflected his commitment.
Abbas urged Osun’s residents to prioritize hands-on leaders who are well-versed in state affairs and policy matters.
As his final point, Abbas stressed the importance of focusing on concrete issues rather than divisive rhetoric. He argued that Osun’s next election cycle should spotlight key areas such as education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“Let’s push for campaigns that address these pressing concerns rather than personal attacks or vague promises,” he said.
Abbas concluded by urging the people of Osun to “domesticate” the high engagement and enthusiasm seen in the U.S. presidential elections. By fostering a culture of issue-driven discourse and accountability, he believes Osun State can set a new standard for local governance and political engagement.
