President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Abubakar Atiku Isa, has declared that anyone seeking political office in Nigeria must be prepared to make personal sacrifices for the welfare of citizens.
Speaking on Symfoni TV, the student leader criticized what he described as the unwillingness of many political leaders to defend the interests of the people despite enjoying massive public support.
According to him, true leadership requires courage, commitment and a willingness to stand up against injustice.
“We have to make sacrifices for the young people of this country. If you are not ready to die for the people, then why do you want to become a leader?” he said.
Atiku Isa argued that many opposition politicians have failed to adequately challenge electoral irregularities and alleged political persecution in the country.
He specifically expressed disappointment with some opposition figures, saying they have not demonstrated enough courage in defending democratic principles.
The NANS president maintained that leaders who seek public office must be prepared to protect the mandate of voters and resist actions capable of undermining democracy.
According to him, Nigerians deserve leaders who are willing to take risks in pursuit of justice, accountability and good governance.
He also urged political actors to place the interests of citizens above personal ambitions, insisting that leadership should be driven by service rather than the pursuit of power.
Isa further noted that Nigeria’s challenges, including insecurity, unemployment and poor governance, require leaders who are willing to make difficult decisions for the benefit of the people.
