Omisore’s Political Acumen Shines in Insightful Inside Sources Interview

Senator Iyiola Omisore showcased his profound political acumen and strategic foresight in an in-depth interview with Channels TV’s Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Friday. Omisore’s discussion provided a nuanced perspective on Nigeria’s past, present, and future, addressing the nation’s complex challenges while underscoring the progress made over time. On the contentious issue of petroleum […]

Senator Iyiola Omisore showcased his profound political acumen and strategic foresight in an in-depth interview with Channels TV’s Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Friday. Omisore’s discussion provided a nuanced perspective on Nigeria’s past, present, and future, addressing the nation’s complex challenges while underscoring the progress made over time.

On the contentious issue of petroleum subsidy removal, Omisore noted its inclusion in the manifesto of every political party. “Every party that contested has petroleum subsidy removal as their major manifesto. How come it becomes an issue?” he questioned. He argued that while the execution might be debated, the necessity of subsidy removal was evident. “The issue that he shouldn’t have done it in some ways is a matter of semantics. This thing must still go because we’re losing so much money through this means. Let’s now look inwards and adjust ourselves to it.”

Addressing the multidimensional poverty in the country, Omisore remarked, “Poverty to me is in every nation. It can be subjective. It’s a menace we’re trying to fight. The government is trying to meet up with the challenges of poverty. Our culture, reasonability, upbringing and training sometimes negate helping government.” He emphasized the importance of patience and collective effort, stating that personal greed exacerbates poverty and that living in constant fear of tomorrow compounds the issue.

During the discussions about the All Progressives Congress (APC) Convention, Omisore reflected on the political dynamics, noting that participants came from different zones and represented varied interests. He highlighted his senior position in the South-West and his mandate to secure the presidency for that region. He observed that while there was initially no consensus, a clear direction emerged by the convention’s conclusion. Drawing on his extensive political experience since 1999, he noted that politics revolves around pursuing and achieving one’s goals, acknowledging the role of fortune in success.

It would be recalled that, in his acceptance speech in 2023, President Tinubu lauded the efforts of Senator Omisore. He said, “To the entire members of the National Working Committee and particularly, the Secretary of the party, Iyiola Omisore who I’ve have worked with him, collating some forms, doing everything Administratively to get us to comply with the requirements of National Electoral Commission. We thank you for a good job.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since independence, Omisore recounted the country’s tumultuous history. “Since Nigeria’s independence, it’s undergone several experiences—military coup, civil war, political experiences, coups, First Republic, Second Republic, etc.” He emphasized that these experiences have shaped Nigeria’s evolution and its growing population, describing the population growth as a “geometrical progression” that presents challenges.

A key issue Omisore highlighted was the critical role of data in national planning. “The issue of data, statistics vs religion too. People don’t want to be counted. Like you want to kill their children. Whereas, this helps to plan. Where there is no data, you cannot plan. And you cannot fault the government for this one. We’re going to fault ourselves.” He stressed that the lack of accurate data hampers effective governance and development planning.

Despite the challenges, Omisore expressed optimism about Nigeria’s progress. “For me, Nigeria has always been advancing forward no matter how you look at it. Though it might be slower than expected.” He pointed to the continuous democratic transitions since 1999 as significant milestones. “We had government since 1999 transiting democratically. In any form of understanding, for the fact that we’re transiting from one government to another, that’s one and across party lines, that’s two.”

Omisore also commented on the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging the bold steps taken so far. “Now, we’re in a new government headed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He’s taken some strong strides. And for leadership, you must take bold strides. When you’re taking bold strides in leadership, people will be complaining, making noise. It’s after the end of his tenure that people will appreciate.”

Senator Omisore’s interview provided a thorough examination of Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, blending historical context with contemporary challenges and solutions. Viewers of Inside Sources noted that his insights offer valuable guidance for navigating the nation’s future, emphasizing patience, strategic planning, and collective responsibility.