LAGOS – A musician, Paschal Ejikeme, popularly known as Excetera, on Tuesday, advised artistes going into politics to learn from the ‘’masters’’ before contesting elections.
Ejikeme gave the advice while interacting with newsmen in Lagos.
Speaking at the backdrop of some entertainers who tried to contest elections but lost at the primaries of some of the political parties, he said that those affected did not know the issues or matters concerning their constituencies.
According to him, when they know these things and they are close to their people, they will know if they are fit to contest an election to achieve their political ambition.
“If they get close to their people, they will know the problems of the people they want to represent.
“ You can’t just wake up one morning and ride on a horse down the streets like Apostle Paul on his way to Damascus and expect to be applauded into the government house.
“They have not even build sufficient resume; a vast majority of successful political careers are built around impressive resumes,” he said.
The musician stressed that entertainers wishing to contest elections should build their resumes objectively and plan on how to face their opponents.
“A prior involvement in their constituencies would add some significant padding to their resumes.
“They should ask if they are better candidates or electable. This is a question that anyone who wishes the best for his or her people should consider.
“If you are considering running simply as a way to get involved, maybe, there is another and better role for you,” he said, adding that those in that mould could opt for a local board or advisory committee.
He stated that it was a lie for some entertainers to have said that they were contesting elections because they wanted to change the system.
According to him, charity begins at home; changes have to be initiated in the “madhouse’’ as we call the entertainment industry.
“A head that can’t produce meaningful lyrics, film or is not organised, cannot inspire anything meaningful in governance.
“If you can’t stand for anything with your art, then you surely don’t have what it takes to lead.
“What are their long term goals? Are they running because they feel that their fame indicates they can win?
Ejikeme expressed doubt if some of the entertainers seeking elective offices were well informed about bills or proposals being discussed at the National Assembly.
“For entertainers with intention of seeking election into public office in 2019, which is just around the corner, now is the time to start working on those areas that need improvement,’’ he said.
He added that they should seek professional assistance for them to achieve their political ambitions. (NAN)