Mr Wale Adebayo is the Chairman of Allied Peoples Movement, (APM) and the Immediate past chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council, (IPAC) Osun state chapter, in this in interview with Rukiyat Ogunwade, he speaks on the crisis rocking the state over the administration of local government councils, efforts at making his party popular and acceptable among others.
Your party (APM ) seems not to be that popular in Osun State, what do you have to say about this?
The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has indeed faced significant challenges in establishing a widespread presence in Osun State. This has been particularly evident during the recent local government elections, where we made the difficult decision to withdraw. Our choice was driven by serious concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process and the operations of the state’s electoral commission. Such issues not only undermine the spirit of democracy but also deter citizen engagement and confidence in the political system. However, it is crucial to recognize that our journey is defined not solely by the challenges we face but by our unwavering commitment to our core principles and vision. APM stands for transparency, accountability, and grassroots empowerment—values that resonate deeply with the needs of the people of Osun State.
In the face of adversity, we are actively working to strengthen our grassroots mobilization efforts. We understand that building popularity requires engaging authentically with our community, listening to their concerns, and offering viable solutions to their problems. We are dedicated to fostering a participatory political culture where the voices of the people are heard and valued. We recognize that we need to increase our visibility and popularity by strategic partnerships and collaboration with other like-minded groups and organizations. We are keen on leveraging these relationships to amplify our message and mobilize support at the local level. Our resolve to advocate the interests of the people of Osun State remains firm. We are committed to educating the electorate about our party’s vision and policies, providing an alternative to the status quo. We firmly believe that with sustained effort, dedication, and a focus on the needs of the populace, APM will gradually gain the recognition and support it deserves in Osun State. As we move forward, we invite all citizens to join us in our quest for a more equitable, transparent, and accountable governance structure—together, we can create the change we seek in Osun State.
What efforts are you making to make the party favourably contest with PDP and APC?
At the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) we believe that popularity is not merely a measure of success. Our focus is on building a sustainable political presence that genuinely resonates with the needs and aspirations of the people. To contest favourably against these larger parties, we are implementing a multifaceted strategy aimed at establishing a robust grassroots presence. We are actively engaging with communities to understand their concerns, identify their needs, and tailor our policies accordingly. This grassroots approach not only helps us connect with voters but also empowers local voices in the political process. We recognize the power of digital communication in today’s political landscape. Therefore, we are leveraging social media platforms to amplify our message, communicate directly with the electorate, and create a cohesive online community that supports our vision. Through engaging content and regular dialogue, we aim to raise awareness about our party and its principles. Additionally, we are forming strategic alliances with like-minded organizations and civic groups that share our values and objectives. Our commitment to developing a compelling policy agenda is also paramount. We are dedicated to addressing the pressing challenges faced by our communities, such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. Finally, we are focused on identifying and supporting strong candidates who are not only capable leaders but also true representatives of the people’s interests. We believe that with the right candidates, our party can effectively convey its message and attract wider support.
How would you describe the crisis over the local government election in the state?
The crisis over the local government elections in Osun State is a troubling situation that, unfortunately, could have been avoided had the governor adhered to the judgment of the appellate court. The implications of this disregard for judicial authority have been severe, leading to loss of lives and a surge in tensions within the state. It is particularly disheartening to witness how a political issue has escalated to such dangerous levels, harming not only the political landscape but also the state’s well-being. The governor’s decision to ignore the ruling of the Court of Appeal, which reinstated the former council chairmen ousted by his administration, a move that has been fraught with controversy and could be seen as an act of defiance against the rule of law. I believe a more prudent course of action would have been for the governor to heed the advice of the Attorney General of the Federation, who recommended that the election date be postponed.
How best do you think the crisis can be resolved?
To genuinely resolve the crisis in Osun State, it is imperative for the governor to respect and comply with the recent Court of Appeal judgment by reinstating the sacked council chairmen. This action is not merely a legal obligation; it is also a critical step toward restoring public confidence in our governance and reinforcing the importance of the rule of law. When a government disregards judicial decisions, it undermines the very foundation of democracy and the trust of the citizens who depend on fair and lawful governance. By adhering to the court’s ruling, the governor can send a strong message that the state’s leadership respects legal institutions and the principles of justice. Political leaders, including the governor, must exhibit the political will to resolve the crisis decisively. This involves prioritizing the needs and welfare of the people over partisan interests or personal agendas.
As a former chairman of IPAC in the state, the organisation appears to be docile on political issues in the state?
As the former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Osun State, I can understand the sentiments regarding its perceived silence on pressing political issues. It’s possible that IPAC is intentionally selecting its battles, focusing on critical issues that require careful consideration and consensus among its diverse member-parties. This approach can often lead to more impactful engagement rather than issuing broad statements that may lack unity or focus. However, I believe there is an urgent need for IPAC to adopt a more proactive and visible stance on the political challenges we face in the state. The absence of a clear and vocal presence can create a vacuum where important discussions and democratic values might be overshadowed. It is vital for IPAC to harness its collective strength, engage in dialogue, and advocate fair practices, transparency, and accountability within our political system. Moreover, while it may seem that IPAC is working behind the scenes, as an outsider, it can be difficult to assess the extent of their involvement in key issues. This lack of visibility can contribute to the perception of inactivity. Therefore, I would encourage IPAC to increase its public engagement, sharing its initiatives and efforts to address political concerns. However, as a central player in Osun State’s political landscape, IPAC’s voice is indispensable in shaping the narrative and promoting democratic values.
What is your assessment of the government of Senator Ademola Adeleke in Osun state?
Assessing Adeleke’s administration since 2022 is a mixed scorecard Evaluating Governor Adeleke’s administration since his swearing-in in 2022 is akin to applauding with one hand—there are notable achievements, but significant shortcomings remain. One of his commendable actions was the clearance of salary arrears owed civil servants and pensioners from the Rauf Aregbesola administration, demonstrating his commitment to workers’ welfare. However, while he prioritized wage payments, other sectors of governance have suffered severely. While there is much more to discuss, a more comprehensive assessment will follow as Adeleke’s administration marks its third anniversary. At that point, a deeper review of its performance across all sectors will be warranted.
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