US Elections: Adeoye Owolewa Becomes First Nigerian to Hold Congressman Seat
Adeoye Owolewa is a Nigerian-Born, American Politician who contested on the platform of the Democratic Party has been elected as a U.S shadow (non-voting) representative out of the District of Columbia, becoming the first Nigerian to achieve this feat.
Oye polled a total of 164,026 votes, which represents 82.84% of the total votes cast thereby defeating Joyce Robinson-Paul and Sohaer Syed in a landslide.
In 2018, he was elected commissioner of his neighbourhood in Southeast DC, As a commissioner, Oye learned the value of being an advocate and community resource.
Oye has dedicated his energy to educate and advocate for DC statehood and equality. As an advocate for DC statehood, he launched TaxFreeDC as a movement to combat DC’s taxation without representation.
According to his website, TaxFreeDC declares that until DC statehood is achieved, DC’s tax revenue shall no longer go to the federal government.
“Oye believes our money belongs here for DC priorities instead of going to a government that fails to recognize us”.
Adeoye who hails from Omu-Aran Local Government Area of Kwara State in Nigeria holds a PhD degree in Pharmacy from the Northeastern University, Boston.
Owolewa took to his Instagram to share the news of his victory on Wednesday.
Good morning. Looks like WE DID IT!!! I want to thank everyone, from family and close friends to DC residents. Because of your contributions and sacrifices, I stand before you as America’s first Nigerian American congressman. In this role, I’m going to fight for DC statehood and bring our values to the lawmaking process. While today is a day for some celebration, the hard work also follows. Again, thanks so much for everything. I wouldn’t be here without yall.
With love and gratitude,
Oye, congressman-elect
