… Speaks On Why APC Cannot Win
… Unveils Fix FCT Agenda
Pastor Olanrewaju Lawrence Osho, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) senatorial candidate for the Federal Capital Territory and founder of the Fix FCT movement, says Abuja needs a development approach that prioritises residents, improves public services and creates economic opportunities.
Osho, who contested the FCT Senate seat in the 2019 and 2023 elections, speaks on his political ambition, the Fix FCT agenda, the relationship between the Senate and the FCT minister, his assessment of the incumbent senator, Ireti Kingibe, and the performance of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
In this interview with Justina SIMON of THE WHISTLER, he also discusses transportation, affordable housing, agriculture, the concerns of the FCT’s original inhabitants, electoral politics and his proposals for improving the lives of residents.
Excerpt:
You are seeking election to represent the FCT in the Senate. What is driving your ambition, and what makes you believe you are the right candidate?
My ambition is to fix the FCT. I am contesting under the Social Democratic Party, and my symbol is the white horse.
For me, this is about addressing the problems confronting residents and ensuring that the territory works better for the people who live here. I have been involved in the process for years, and I believe the FCT needs representation that understands its challenges and can work towards practical solutions.
You contested the FCT Senate seat in 2023 against Ireti Kingibe. What do you think went wrong?
I believe the Obedient movement played a major role in the outcome of that election. Many people voted based on the movement and the emotions surrounding it.
Before the election, we had a senatorial debate at Sandralia Hotel in Jabi, where candidates had the opportunity to present their ideas. I believe that, based on what was presented, people could assess who had the strongest understanding of the issues.
I have been contesting for the seat, and I believe I have the experience and ideas needed to represent the FCT effectively. However, elections are decided by voters, and people made their choices at the time.
What does Fix FCT mean, and what are the major priorities of the movement?
Fix FCT is about addressing the fundamental problems of the territory. It covers infrastructure, food systems, foundational challenges, inclusivity, accountability, jobs and opportunities, as well as building a city that is prepared for the future.
The FCT needs infrastructure that works, but development must also address the welfare of residents. We need to look at how people access opportunities, how we create jobs and how we ensure that development benefits different communities.
The original inhabitants must also be considered. The territory cannot be said to be developing inclusively if the people whose communities existed before the expansion of the city feel excluded from its progress.
The FCT was established 50 years ago in 1976, while the seat of government moved to Abuja in 1991. These milestones should make us reflect on the progress made and the work that remains to be done.
What should be the relationship between an FCT senator and the minister? Should the senator challenge the minister or work with him?
The senator and the minister have different responsibilities, but they should work in the interest of the people. Neither office should be treated as a reason to ignore the other.
A senator has responsibilities that include representation, legislation, engagement and oversight. The minister is responsible for the administration and execution of policies within the FCT.
There are different ways to approach the relationship. You can complement one another, collaborate where necessary, challenge decisions that are not in the public interest and create opportunities for development.
The senator should not simply impose himself on the minister, and the minister should not behave as if the senator has no role to play. They should understand their responsibilities and work towards results for residents.
For example, a senator can pursue constituency projects such as renovating a school or establishing a football ground in an area such as Gwarinpa. The important thing is to identify the needs of the people and use the available responsibilities and resources to address them.
What is your assessment of Senator Ireti Kingibe’s representation of the FCT?
I have concerns about her engagement with the people. In my experience, there are communities and areas where residents do not feel adequately represented.
I also wrote her a congratulatory letter after the 2023 senatorial debate, but she did not respond to it. These are some of the experiences that informed my assessment.
Representation should involve consistent engagement with residents, listening to their concerns and making sure their needs are reflected in decisions. A senator should not be distant from the people she represents.
How can the FCT ensure that the 2027 election is free, fair and credible?
The people must participate and take the election seriously. When citizens turn out in large numbers and pay attention to the process, it becomes more difficult for anyone to manipulate their choices without scrutiny.
I believe the political atmosphere in 2023, particularly the Obedient movement, influenced the outcome of the election. But going forward, voters should examine candidates, their records and what they intend to do for the people.
The electoral process must be credible, and citizens must be able to trust that their votes count.
What is your assessment of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s performance?
I give him credit for the roads and infrastructure projects that have been undertaken. However, development should not be assessed only by the number of roads constructed.
We need to look at education, healthcare, employment and transportation. These are areas that directly affect the daily lives of residents.
I am concerned about the education sector, including the disruption to schooling caused by disputes involving teachers. Children should not be left out of school for extended periods without a lasting solution.