By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
A Legal Practitioner, Mr Oluwatobi Fatoki, has attributed the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s recent achievements to a “grace” surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
Fatoki, an Ibadan-based lawyer and former spokesperson of the NBA Ibadan branch, made the remarks on Friday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ibadan.
He said the party had undergone a notable rebranding, even with internal challenges, attracting members from other parties.
“President Tinubu assumed office amid significant turbulence, even within his own party. APC has navigated many internal crises and deserves commendation.
“The greatest challenges often come from within, not from outside.
“Some have attempted to undermine the party’s image to discourage public interest. Yet, with his leadership, APC began a process of renewal.
“Today, without coercion, several states and PDP governors have joined APC, which reflects a certain grace surrounding the president and the party,” Fatoki said.
The lawyer also acknowledged recent government efforts to tackle corruption, insecurity, and economic challenges, citing progress in stabilising commodity prices and the naira.
He urged the government to sustain anti-corruption measures and place greater focus on national security.
“The government should ensure that wealth accumulation is accountable and that insecurity is addressed decisively.
“We are seeing collaboration with international partners, restructuring of the security architecture, and personnel changes in key security positions, all aimed at a safer nation.
“The remaining challenges must be tackled so that public confidence can grow.
“Commodity prices are gradually easing, and the naira-dollar exchange rate is stabilising,” he said.
Fatoki called for continued prioritisation of transparency, accountability, and the welfare of civil servants.
He also highlighted the need to revisit the minimum wage to support low-income workers.
“Civil servants, lecturers, and other public workers dedicate decades of service, yet many have little to show for their labour, particularly regarding pensions.
“Meanwhile, political office holders serving shorter terms often benefit disproportionately.
“It is time to balance the scales and curb undue enrichment of elected officials and appointees,” he stressed.
On electoral matters, Fatoki emphasised the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the need for proper preparations for elections.
“INEC needs sufficient time to prepare, as credible elections require careful planning. Its independence is critical.
“The public must remain vigilant to ensure votes count and that rigging is prevented. There is a need for fair electoral practices.
“The people must ensure their votes matter and that the process remains credible,” Fatoki concluded.(NAN)
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