Owolewa becomes first Nigerian-American elected to US congress – Punch Newspapers

Kayode Oyero

Nigerian-American, Oye Owolewa, has been elected as a shadow member of the USA Home of Representatives from the District of Columbia.

Based on election outcomes on the web site of the District of Columbia Board of Elections on Wednesday morning, Owolewa polled 81.59% of the votes, which represents 164,026 votes towards Joyce Robinson-Paul, who scored 18,600 votes, and Sohaer Syed with 15,372 votes.

Owolewa, whose father is from Kwara State and mom is from Oyo, was elected on the platform of the Democratic Social gathering within the election.

Congressional elections held Tuesday with all of the 435 seats within the US Home of Representatives, and 35 of the 100 seats within the Senate up for grabs.

The PhD holder in Pharmacy from the Northeastern College, Boston, is among the 9 Nigerian-Individuals on the poll in Tuesday’s basic elections in the USA.

The marketing campaign web site of the 30-year-old reads, “In 2018, he was elected commissioner of his neighbourhood in SouthEast DC. Lastly, Oye has been an advocate for DC statehood, resulting in his run to be your subsequent consultant.

“He launched TaxFreeDC as a motion to fight DC’s taxation with out illustration. TaxFreeDC declares that till DC statehood is achieved, DC’s tax income shall not go to the federal authorities. Oye believes our cash belongs right here for DC priorities as an alternative of going to a authorities that fails to recognise us.”

In an Instagram put up on Wednesday, Owolewa wrote, “Good morning. Seems to be like we did it!

“I need to thank everybody, from household and shut mates to DC residents.

“Due to your contributions and sacrifices, I stand earlier than you as America’s first Nigerian-American congressman.

“On this function, I’m going to combat for DC statehood and convey our values to the lawmaking course of. Whereas at the moment is the day for some celebration, the laborious work additionally follows.

“Once more, thanks a lot for all the pieces. I wouldn’t be right here with out yall.”

Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Fee, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, congratulated Owolewa in a press release on Wednesday.

“This goes to point out that with dedication, laborious work, resilience and prayer, one can obtain absolutely anything,” Dabiri-Erewa stated.