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By GILBERT EKEZIE
Honourable Fatai Oluwa is member representing Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly. In this interview, he spoke on his achievements in the last seven years, 2023 election, way forward for APC and other issues.
Excerpts
What are your expectations for 2023?
2023 is a very crucial year for Nigeria. It is a year that will most certainly determine the fate of our nation and the citizens for many years to come. I hope to see Nigerians make the right choice in electing credible leaders that will chart the course of our great nation and steer us in the right direction.
Considering the 2023 election, what do you think that will make or mar it?
The effects of conflicts in the political economy of affected nations are dismal. It often leads to bleak economic performance, debilitated institutions and prolonged political instability. Ethnic and religious biases must be shunned and hate speeches should be done away with, in order for us to move forward as a nation. These factors spring up conflicts and unrest in any society where they thrive. We should embrace political, religious and ethnic tolerance, so we can have credible and peaceful elections.
What have been your challenges in politics?
Well, I have been faced with different challenges , especially coming from PDP to APC.
There are a lot of factors at play , which may leave one frustrated and hamper ones success and growth, but with the unwavering grace of God and with the exemplary leadership of our incoming president Bola Hamed Tinubu “inshaalau” and the support of my Hon Speaker, RT Hon Mudashiru Obasa, my darling wife , my entire family, all APC leaders and members both state and local, I was able to conquer and overcome all my challenges. As a legislator, it is indeed tough to have to resort to lobbying to enable you bring back dividends of democracy to your constituents. It is dilemmatic and indeed a great challenge for any legislator.
What plans do you have after your tenure in office as member of the House of Assembly?
I will say that my service to humanity does not start nor end with my legislative duties or any political office. I am a man with a heart for my people. I pray for a successful tenure and time as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, while remaining committed to the growth anddevelopment of my constituency.
Could you state some of the achievements you have made in your political representation?
They are numerous, with more ongoing projects and many others still to come. As one passionate about education, I engaged in “back to school projects” from my early days in office. We have given out free GCE and UTME forms with free online registration to numerous candidates. This has been on going from my first year in office. Water projects have been successfully carried out all over my constituency to enable constituents have access to clean and portable water for their daily use. A good number of constituents have also been beneficiaries to Scholarships and grants at both secondary and tertiary levels. Grants and financial aids have been given farmers ( fish, snail and poultry farmers inclusive) , to encourage farming activities and consequently , boost the agricultural sector of our economy. There are many other silent projects which have been of utmost benefit to the people. In addition to networking job opportunities, I have also been actively engaged in frequent interactions with my constituency members in a quarterly town hall meeting from the time I assumed office till date, one of which you witnessed.
There are campaigns everywhere on INEC registration and PVC collection what’s your advice?
My advice remains, Our Votes Count. You are doing yourself, your future and generations to come a great disservice if you do not get your PVC and you do not cast your vote. Shun ethnic and religious sentiments or biases and vote wisely.
What kind of president does Nigeria need in 2023?
Nigeria needs a quality and experienced leader. One with a proven track record. We need a leader with the big brains to tackle the issues ravaging our nation presently. A leader with an impressive pedigree, void of religious and tribal sentiments.That leader is not far fetched. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the man for the job. In terms of political experience, leadership, social capital, unity, works and development, BAT is superior to others. In fact, he is the best choice for president come 2023.
What advice do you have for the people of your constituency?
Our people should try to promote peace and eschew all forms of political, religious and tribal intolerance. They should go and get their PVCs. Their vote is their right, power and will count.
