In this exclusive interview, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, the national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), discusses various topics including the Tinubu presidency, fuel subsidy removal, the student loan act, Nnamdi Kanu’s detention, the plan to sponsor a gender bill for increased female representation in the National Assembly, and the security situation in the Southeast. Here are the key points:
Regarding President Bola Tinubu’s performance in his first month in office, Nwosu acknowledges the appointment of good quality security chiefs but questions the flawed implementation of fuel subsidy withdrawal. He highlights the significant increase in fuel prices and the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians as a result. Nwosu emphasizes the need for sensitive policies that positively affect the people and empower them, especially in a country described as the poverty capital of the world.
Nwosu also criticizes the implementation of the student loan program, particularly the requirement for students to seek sureties from permanent secretaries. He suggests that the government should have faith in the youth and provide support without unnecessary hurdles.
Regarding security, Nwosu emphasizes the need for a functioning security infrastructure to restore people’s sense of safety. He also emphasizes the importance of tackling corruption by plugging loopholes and ensuring that large sums of money injected into the system are not misused.
In terms of the National Assembly, Nwosu expresses dissatisfaction with its performance, which he believes contributes to corruption. He highlights his party’s intention to sponsor a bill for affirmative action, aiming to increase female representation in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Nwosu believes that having more women in the National Assembly will positively impact the dynamics and leadership.
Regarding Nnamdi Kanu’s detention, Nwosu asserts that the instability in the Southeast is not solely caused by Kanu but is a result of corruption in the government. He argues that Kanu should be released and that people have the right to protest and express their opinions without attacking the state.
Nwosu acknowledges that many Nigerians have not fully accepted President Tinubu as legitimate due to perceived irregularities and lack of credibility in the 2023 election conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In summary, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu discusses various issues, highlighting concerns about policy implementation, the need for sensitive and empowering measures, increased female representation in politics, and the release of Nnamdi Kanu. He also addresses the legitimacy of President Tinubu’s presidency based on public sentiment towards the conduct of the election.