Why I want to be next governor of Rivers - Julius Agwu

The success story of comedy in Nigeria cannot be complete without the
mention of great comedians like Julius Agwu.The Choba-born comedian,
actor and musician has joined pantheon of intending gubernatorial
aspirants warming up to take the reins of power from Governor Rotimi
Amaechi of Rivers State. In this chat with Potpourri, the diminutive
entertainer talks about his political intent, his career and other
things. Excerpts:

It is been quite a while; what's been happening?

I am working on a lot of projects at the moment; I am still organising
comedy shows. l am currently working on something for my music. I have
a band called 'Reel Laif Band' and we are performing at the Encomium
black and white ball holding this Sunday.

The news is going round that you are working at becoming the governor
of your state. What is your take on this?

Yes, I am working on that project too at the moment.

Would you call yourself a politician?

I cannot really call myself a politician, but l am someone who prays
and wish for things to get better than it is in this country. I
believe I can help to achieve what my brother started in Rivers State.
It is a known truth that Port Harcourt was the Garden City of this
great country, but we lost that glory because of poverty and neglect,
coupled with incessant militancy and kidnapping. Governor Amaechi has
done well for the State, but we still need good hands after he leaves
to continue the good work.

If you are not a politician then why do you want to be the governor
of Rivers State?

Becoming the governor of Rivers State was not something that came up
overnight. It was not on my radar back then. The people of Rivers
State in the Diaspora and those in the State have been clamouring for
me to come out as an aspirant. They believe I have what it takes to go
for it. It just dawned on me that I indeed have what it takes. I have
given it a serious thought and have given in to their pressure.

These people who have been bothering you, would they sponsor your
election, if yes, who are they?

Yes, they will. But I do not want to disclose their names for security reasons.

Will you use a political party at the end of the day?

Yes, we shall, eventually, but I do not want to unveil that now.

In your future party, do you think an aspirant from your party will
be going for the presidency?

Yes, when the time comes it will be revealed.

How is the comedy business these days?

Comedy business is going well. You know it's one of the biggest
businesses in Nigeria now as it helps to relax our tensed nerves.
People who laugh a lot tend to live longer. Comedy is so important
that even people outside the shores of Nigeria know about it before
us. Obasanjo was someone who practiced it while he was in power.

What else do you have up your sleeve?

I have a studio and I also own a construction company.

Culled from Vanguard