Tinubu’s reforms driving mass defections to APC — Oyo Senate aspirant
By Yinka Adeniran, Ibadan An aspirant for the Oyo Central Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ademola Wasiu Alli, popularly known as AWA, has said
By Yinka Adeniran, Ibadan
An aspirant for the Oyo Central Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ademola Wasiu Alli, popularly known as AWA, has said the bold reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu are attracting more Nigerians to the ruling party.
Alli, a retired Federal Director of Finance, acknowledged that the reforms have come with varying degrees of hardship, but insisted they remain necessary for the country’s long-term stability and growth.
He argued that beyond partisan considerations, informed observers recognise the reforms as critical steps that will yield significant benefits for the nation in the near future.
Dismissing claims of widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling party, Alli maintained that the calibre of individuals defecting to the APC reflects growing understanding and support for the President’s policies, as well as confidence in their eventual positive impact.
The senatorial hopeful made the remarks while answering questions from a panel of journalists, including Chike Ogbogu, Dapo Falade, Yinka Adeniran, and Soji Ajibola, during the “Hot Seat” programme organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, themed “Real Questions; Real Answers.”
He cited the removal of fuel subsidy, harmonisation of the forex regime, and recent police reforms as key measures aimed at repositioning the country and securing a more sustainable future.
He said, "I do not agree with the insinuations that the populace are not happy with President Tinubu. He has been so bold and courageous in enforcing hard stances.
"If people are not happy with President Tinubu, why are people joining the party on a daily basis? People that are knowledgeable knows that we need these reforms and it will shape our future as a nation.
"For me, there is no other party that I can join in the country outside the APC because of the various policies and reforms of President Tinubu.
"Look at the issue of State Police, everyone knows we need it to reinforce security. Yet, many present and past leaders are not bold to enforce it, but President Tinubu has shown the courage in that direction."
Speaking on his ambition, Alli said he is not going into politics for gain, after over three decades of illustrious career in civil service. He noted that his involvement in politics is driven by a desire to serve humanity rather than for commercial or personal gain.
He emphasised that his political ambition is rooted in a commitment to effective representation and service delivery, adding that his aspiration to represent Oyo Central at the Senate is anchored on addressing the needs of constituents and contributing meaningfully to national development.
Outlining his understanding of legislative responsibilities, the senatorial hopeful highlighted lawmaking, oversight functions, and representation as the core duties of a legislator.
He pledged to deploy his experience and competence to deliver impactful representation if given the mandate to serve in the National Assembly.
Alli further disclosed that his years of experience in the executive arm of government have equipped him with the requisite knowledge to contribute effectively to policymaking and governance, stressing that such experience would be leveraged on to advance the interests of his constituents.
On political mentorship, he acknowledged President Tinubu and other APC leaders across various levels in the state as his political fathers, assuring that his goodwill is strong enough to attract support from loyalists, partners, friends, and other stakeholders to fund his political campaigns.
Speaking on challenges facing the Oyo Central Senatorial District, Alli said his extensive tour of the district had exposed him to the pressing needs of the people. He assured constituents that he would prioritise practical solutions to the challenges if elected.
The Fiditi-born accountant also outlined key focus areas for his proposed tenure, including training, empowerment, job creation, and attracting federal government projects to the district as part of the dividends of democracy.
On party loyalty, Alli reaffirmed his commitment to the APC, stating that he would remain a dedicated member of the party regardless of the outcome of the party’s ticket allocation process.
He also stressed the importance of women’s inclusion in governance, pledging to support and empower women to enhance their contributions to national development.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of NUJ, Oyo State Council, Comrade Akeem Abas, said the relaunch of the Hot Seat programme was aimed at providing a platform for prospective public office seekers to present their plans and ideas to the public.
Abas reiterated that the NUJ remains apolitical and is committed to upholding ethical and professional standards in journalism, devoid of ethnic or religious bias.
The event attracted supporters of Alli from across the Oyo Central Senatorial District, marking a significant turnout for the maiden edition of the relaunched programme.
