First Anniversary: Yoruba Group, Afenifere Greets Tinubu, Backs Reforms In LGs

By Ayodele Oni

The leader of pan Yoruba socio cultural organization, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has backed the Federal Government on the proposed move to grant the 774 local governments in the country full autonomy.

This is contained in a congratulatory message marking the first year anniversary of President Bola Tinubu and signed by Afenifere National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi.

Ajayi quoted Pa Fasoranti as expressing delight on some bold steps that the President has taken in the last one year aimed at repositioning Nigeria adroitly.

“Before, during and after the Presidential election that brought you into the office last year, I gave you some ideas regarding how to tackle some challenges that Nigeria faced – and still faces.

“We also spoke about some of these issues when I led Afenifere delegation to your office in Abuja last month.

“I’m happy to note that, in line with your promises, you are making efforts at implementing policies that will enhance the situation of our dear country and better the lot of the people.”

The Afenifere leader pointed out that the reforms initiated by the government have the prospect of revamping the country’s economy and reducing the mutual distrust among the ethnic nationalities in the country.

He commended Tinubu on his government’s effort to rescue local governments from the strangulating grip of state governors.

“It’s undebatable that local government is the closest to the people.

“For, it is through it that the people at the grassroots can effectively feel the impact of the government.

“As the situation is presently however, the tight grip that state governors have on local governments is seriously denying the people of the benefits they should, by right, be deriving from their local governments.

“It’s in this respect that Pa Fasoranti, described the latest step taken by the Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi on behalf of the federal government as a step in the right direction.”

While expressing optimism that steps being taken by the government will soon soothe the pains of Nigerians, Fasoranti called on Tinubu to further look in the direction of infrastructure such as power and transport among others.

“Security is an important factor in any social equation.

“For, it’s in a situation where people are secured that they would be able to confidently engage in activities that will boost the economy and enhance inter-personal relationships.

“In order to institutionalize reforms being made, accelerate developments, enhance people’s participation in governance and engender the desired new Nigeria, there is the urgent need to restructure the country.

“Restructuring will deepen people’s participation in governance, boost the creativity of Nigerians and guarantee the future of the country.”