...Says APC Direct Primaries Deepen Internal Democracy, Backs Electoral Reforms
As Nigeria marks three years under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, debates continue to dominate public discourse over the state of the economy, security challenges, infrastructure development and the impact of ongoing reforms.
For Otunba Olumide Araoyinbo, a former Majority Leader of the Ondo State House of Assembly, APC chieftain, businessman and former President of the Ondo State Chamber of Commerce, the verdict is clear: while the reforms may be painful in the short term, they are necessary steps toward rebuilding the nation's economy and creating a more sustainable future.
In this exclusive interview with Event Diary Lifestyle, Publisher Adeola Shittu, Araoyinbo speaks extensively on President Tinubu's performance after three years in office, the country's security situation, the controversy surrounding APC direct primaries, the new Electoral Act and the need for politicians to embrace party loyalty rather than jumping from one platform to another.
He also warns against the politicisation of insecurity, insists that Nigerians must remain patient with ongoing reforms, and argues that direct primaries offer party members a greater voice in choosing their candidates.
Three years into the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, how would you assess his performance?
To me, it is very glaring. We can all see what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done in the past three years, especially in the areas of economy, infrastructure and education. He has done beautifully well.
When we talk about the economy, Nigerians know where the country was before he assumed office and where we are today. Yes, things may be difficult presently, but reforms are never easy. Whenever you are trying to rebuild an economy, there will always be difficult decisions that must be taken.
The reforms introduced by President Tinubu are long-term reforms. They are designed to create a stronger foundation for the country and, ultimately, improve the lives of Nigerians. My appeal to citizens is to remain patient and allow these reforms to mature because I believe the benefits will become evident in the years ahead.
One of the biggest concerns of Nigerians today is insecurity. How would you assess the government's handling of the situation?
There is no doubt that insecurity remains a serious challenge. It affects every aspect of our national life and everyone is concerned about it.
However, we must also understand the political environment we are operating in. As we gradually move towards another election cycle, some individuals attempt to weaponise insecurity for political advantage. That is dangerous and unhelpful to the country.
What I see is a President who recognises the seriousness of the challenge and is taking steps to strengthen the nation's security architecture. The appointment of a military general as adviser on internal security is part of that effort.
I also believe that Nigeria's collaboration with international partners will further strengthen the fight against criminal elements. My message to Nigerians is simple: remain vigilant, support security agencies and be patient. I believe the situation will improve.
As an APC leader, what is your assessment of the party's recently concluded primaries?
There were a few challenges here and there, but that is expected whenever a new process is being implemented. For many of us, this is the first time direct primaries are being extensively adopted across the board.
Every democratic process evolves. What is important is that the party follows its constitution and guidelines. Once that is done, most disputes can be resolved internally.
I have confidence in the leadership of our party and I believe lessons from this exercise will help improve future primaries.
Some aspirants believe direct primaries contributed to their defeat. Do you think the system should be retained?
Absolutely. Direct primaries empower ordinary party members.
Under the indirect system, a relatively small number of delegates determine who emerges as candidate. With direct primaries, the decision is broadened to include more members of the party.
That, to me, is more democratic. Of course, there is room for improvement in terms of logistics and implementation, but the principle itself is commendable and should be encouraged.
What is your position on the provisions of the Electoral Act that discourage politicians from defecting after losing primaries?
One of the biggest problems in Nigerian politics is the absence of strong ideological commitment.
In established democracies, politicians remain within their political parties because they believe in certain principles and programmes. Here, many people move from one party to another simply because they did not get a ticket.
I think the law is a positive development because it promotes party discipline and discourages unnecessary defections. No law is perfect, and every law can be reviewed if necessary, but for now, I believe it is serving a useful purpose.
So you believe the law is working?
Yes, I do. Politics should not be about personal ambition alone. If you lose today, there will always be another opportunity tomorrow.
Rather than abandoning your party, you should support whoever emerges and continue working for the collective interest of the people.