Kwara State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Tajudeen Aro, recently discussed the concerns raised by some aggrieved members of the party, particularly a group known as G-16. In an interview with Tunde Oyekola, Aro acknowledged the group’s status as respected leaders and elders within the party. He emphasized that their grievances should not be dismissed lightly, as they are responsible members of the APC.
The G-16 members have expressed frustration over their inability to meet with Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRasaq, claiming that their efforts to engage with him have been unsuccessful. In response, Aro suggested that the group may not have followed the proper channels to arrange a meeting or that there may be obstacles preventing their access. He assured that the governor is accessible and responsive to the needs of party members and the public, indicating that no one would deliberately block their attempts to meet with him.
Among the issues raised by the G-16 are the lack of local government elections, delayed and insufficient gratuity payments to pensioners, and the neglect of rural areas in terms of development and agriculture. Aro disagreed with their assessment, arguing that their complaints resemble those of the opposition, who fail to recognize the positive contributions of the governor. He reiterated that the governor is open to meeting with them and explained that several factors, including ongoing court cases related to the dissolution of the state Independent Electoral Commission, are hindering the conduct of local government elections. He assured the group that elections would be held once these legal issues are resolved.
Regarding pension payments, Aro pointed out that the current administration inherited significant debts from previous governments. He noted that when Governor AbdulRazaq took office three and a half years ago, there were substantial arrears in pension payments. Despite this, the governor has been diligent in paying monthly pensions and has recently disbursed gratuities to retired civil servants from 2009 and 2010, with plans to continue payments as funds become available.
The G-16 has also claimed that some APC executives have dismissed their existence within the party. Aro, as the party’s spokesperson, stated that he does not recall any such claims being made and emphasized that while all support groups are registered, the G-16 may not have gone through this process. He urged the group to consult widely before taking any drastic actions, particularly as elections approach.
In advising the G-16, Aro suggested that they should have engaged with party leadership before going public with their grievances, as this could have facilitated a resolution. He cautioned against any actions that might be perceived as antagonistic towards the government, urging them to exercise patience and avoid counterproductive measures.
Finally, Aro highlighted the achievements of Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration, noting significant progress in various sectors, including education, health, workers’ welfare, and infrastructure development. He emphasized that the government has made impactful changes that benefit the people of Kwara State.
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