Revered actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has said that Nigeria is prepared to have a woman take the highest political office in the country.

She is of the view that, women from time immemorial have been put in charge to manage affairs of the home and take care of men – a responsibility the Nollywood star says they discharge with all aptness – therefore handling the affairs of the country would not be of a great deal.

Speaking in an interview with Punch Newspaper, Omotola said she believes men in politics are doing a great job, however, she thinks it’s about time Nigeria reconsidered its long-standing patriarchal political system to make room for more women to take up positions including the office of the president.

“What else do we need to be as women?” she says. “You have to agree with me that a lot of women are doing almost better than men now. We all know that women are now in charge of some households and we all know that women are good at organising as well as handling responsibilities. I think Nigeria is ready for a female president.”

The 40-year-old also expressed her excitement about the active participation and interest of the youth in Nigeria’s political system, especially at a time the country is preparing for the general elections slated for February 16, 2019.

“I am very impressed with the participation of young people in politics today,” she says. “Years ago, these people were not interested in politics. But I don’t think we should vote for people because they are young, as it will be misleading. We must ensure they are credible by asking questions. I think we should look out for their track records.”

She further urged the youth not to allow themselves to be influenced by anyone who would offer them money and material gifts in exchange of their votes, but rather vote for someone who is competent enough to drive the country forward.

“I urge Nigerians not to allow people to intimidate them again. They shouldn’t vote for people because they feel they will win. Instead, vote for someone you believe in even though the person will get only two votes. We cannot continue to choose the lesser evil; we have to desist from that”, she added.