He spoke on Saturday when he received the new executives who paid a courtesy visit on him at his Bourdilion, Ikoyi residence after their victory.

Asiwaju Tinubu charged them to rededicate themselves to the party and work to take it to the new level, saying winning all political contests became a hallmark of the party in Lagos.

He thanked the outgoing executives led by Chief Henry Ajomale for their unparallel stewardship that saw the party grow stronger, broader and more relevant. He commended them for steady way they led the party maintaining party discipline and cohesion through the years.

“The outgoing executives led by Chief Ajomale did a wonderful job. He led the party with a unity of purpose underpinned by the spirit of inclusiveness and purpose. Under them we never lost any election. We will not lose any election but this depends on how you handle your new responsibilities,” he said.

On the issue of the congress conducted, Asiwaju Tinubu said it was conducted in line with the guiding laws of the party.
“The people who own the party have spoken and chosen their leaders. The success of the congress held confirms the tradition of robust democracy and consensus-building that has brought progressive development to our state”.

Tinubu said the new chairman of the party in the state, Alhaji Tunde Balogun, was no stranger to him and no stranger to responsibility, adding that as Commissioner under his administration, he performed well.

The APC National Leader expressed confidence in his ability to lead the party and to deliver the good.

Balogun was Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture during Tinubu’s time as governor.

The new chairman thanked the APC national leader and pledged to work hard to take the party to the next level. He commended the Senator Uche Ekwunife, who led the state Congress Organising Committee, and her team for conducting a free, fair and transparent exercise and for demonstrating commitment to the progress and success of the party.

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Governor Ambode, who spoke at the Fourth Quarter, 2017 Town Hall Meeting, the 9th in the series, held at the SUBEB Proposed Permanent Site in Kosofe Local Government, said the clamour across the country for restructuring was not out of place as the current political structure was seriously hindering Nigeria’s development.

Tinubu, at a forum held in Lagos recently, backed the calls for devolution of powers and the need for the nation to truly adopt the practice of true federalism, submitting that it was the surest way to correct the nation’s power imbalance and quell the agitations for secession.

The Governor, while responding to a question raised by a resident on calls for true federalism said, “I support true federalism; I support all the issues raised by Asiwaju; we are on the same page. That is the page of APC; that is where we are and that is what we are committed to. Like I have always said, we need to deal with issues that relate to devolution of powers.

“Like somebody said, if I have more resources, all these items that you are coming to raise here, once you raise it, I will just say done. I need more money. So, why should somebody be saying they are the ones in charge of inland waterways when the waterways is transporting my own people and my own services and when there is a law about it”.

Governor Ambode also questioned why despite the existence of Hotel Occupancy and Restaurant Consumption Law enacted by the Lagos State House of Assembly, there were still attempts from the central government to regulate hotels and entertainment centres in the State, a situation he said was an anomaly that should be addressed accordingly.

“We enact a law and somebody says he wants to do another law that regulates hotels inside Lagos. Is it not because of the roads that they put hotel there? That is what devolution of power is saying. If these things are on residual list, let Local Government and States deal with them. That is all that we are asking for. It’s not that we will generate Value Added Tax (VAT) here and somebody will be sharing 50 per cent of the VAT somewhere else.

“So, obviously that is the whole idea behind this agitation for true federalism, devolution of powers and the need to use it to liberate ourselves so that we can get more prosperous; so that our people can be more comfortable and it is all about the welfare of our people. Our people have said that we should do this work and we must be able to speak on your behalf on the things that really matter to all of you,” he said.

Alluding to the fact that the last four months of the year, popularly called the Ember months usually spring up security challenges, the Governor charged Traditional Rulers and community leaders in the State to join hands with the State Government to wage a total war against all forms of crimes as well as drug abuse in their various communities.

He said his administration will not relent in its efforts towards reducing the menace, adding however that concerted efforts from the traditional rulers and community leaders, who are closest to the people, were very pivotal to achieving the desired result.

“We are in October and we are going to December, naturally, when it gets to the ember months, somehow traditionally, crime rate go up but in the last two years, we have been able to reduce crime rate when it is coming to December.

“I want to appeal to all our traditional rulers and other community leaders; there is a need for us to support the Neighborhood Safety Corps. Also our volunteers and the people should now be more vigilant and then cooperate with our security agencies to maintain law and order.

“I want to reduce the crime rate to the barest minimum and I know that we are going to engage a lot of our youths in end of the year activities to make sure that peace continue to reign in Lagos,” the Governor said.

Besides, Governor Ambode also implored the various Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to increase their awareness campaign on the dangers of drug abuse, saying that there was an urgent need for them to also join the fight against all forms of domestic and sexual violence.

“Like people already know, we are at the forefront of fighting drugs, sexual abuse and violence against women and children, we will not relent in fighting these menace in the society. I believe strongly this is the time to talk to our children; I believe strongly this is the time to talk to our wards and even those who are around us that this time around, the State Government is ready to fight crime in all its ramifications,” he said.

The Governor also commended residents for their continuous support to his administration, saying that it had gone a long way in driving the various infrastructural development programmes implemented by the State Government.

He particularly commended the efforts of some community associations who have taken the initiative to start up projects in their vicinity, assuring that aside recognition from the State Government, his administration would ensure that such projects would be supported to ensure realisation.

Governor Ambode also tasked chairmen of the 20 local government and 37 local council development areas to look into the welfare of persons living with disabilities and the elderly, saying that the all inclusive mantra of his administration must be felt in every part of the State.

The Governor, who reeled out some of the major projects embarked on by his administration in the last quarter which include commencement of the reconstruction of Oshodi International Airport Road, construction of Pen Cinema Flyover, opening of the DNA Centre, appealed to residents on inconveniences being experienced as a result of ongoing projects and assured that they would be completed on schedule.

He said the State Government was deeply concerned about the traffic situation in Apapa area in recent times, saying that efforts would be put in place to address it, just as he said that 43 major link roads affected by rain would be rehabilitated before the end of the year.

Among dignitaries present at the event include Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, former Deputy Governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, former Speakers of the House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Hon Jokotola Pelumi, APC Chairman in Lagos, Chief Henry Ajomale, Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu I and other major traditional rulers, members of the State Executive Council, among others.

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He said this while addressing State House correspondents after the All Progressives Congress state chairmen’s meeting with the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, at Aso Villa.

According to Ajomale, who is the Chairman of the party in Lagos State, the Forum discussed at length the situation in the country and “then our anxiety for the health of the President.”

“We are grateful that God in His infinite mercies has made him whole which is very critical and important to the vision that we have for this country as APC government.”

He explained that the Acting President was able to brief the forum about the situation in the country, the economy, and steps taken so far to address the challenges facing the country.

“We are very impressed with his explanations and we will go back to our various states and let the people know that the government has very good intentions.

“And that we should be part and parcel of the government in order to ensure that the poor people of this country are getting better deal.

“In a nutshell, we are very happy for what we heard from government and we intend to carry it to our states,’’ the forum chairman said.

On the specific issues discussed, Ajomale said members expressed concerns about the economic situation in the country.

He noted that the situation was not totally the fault of government since it was a global problem with the economic recession taking its toll on every country.

He expressed delight that the Buhari administration was trying to diversify the economy following a slump in oil prices.

Ajomale said:“We also discussed diversification into agriculture, especially rice production, the level of children’s welfare (Home Grown School Feeding programme).

“And then we talked about corruption also which is the key among the problems that the president is particular about.

“I think that the people of this county are particular about this too that corruption cannot continue and a systemic method had been put in place to ensure that it is cut down.

“Although it is not totally eradicated but it is far better than what we had during the President Goodluck Jonathan regime.”

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Speaking at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, during a courtesy visit to the State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, the ANC Treasurer General, Dr. Zwelini Mkhize expressed appreciation to the state government for its effort in ensuring that the South African nationals who were involved in the unfortunate incident were successfully repatriated to the country for burial.

“We do appreciate this relationship, we must say that we are very pleased to learn of your decision in terms of the Synagogue disaster in Lagos last year.

“Certainly, while we all appreciate the assistance that you made to ensure that all of the victims were repatriated back to South Africa, we would continue to support whatever work is being done on your side”, Mkhize said.

The ANC Treasurer said the crux of the visit was to seek ways to strengthen bi-lateral trade between South Africa and Nigeria.

He said the trade level between both countries was currently on a high, adding that both countries stand to benefit from each other in terms of trade and investments.

Governor Ambode while responding, reiterated his government’s commitment to boosting trade relations with South Africa, describing the visit as “a brotherhood meeting”.

He listed the areas of cooperation to include the strengthening of security towards building a safer Lagos which will not only safeguard existing investments in Lagos, will also attract new businesses into the state.

“We have established Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment, so that we can strengthen bi-lateral relationship. We need more investors to come into Lagos so that we can create employment and grow our GDP.

“Whatever it is you think we can do to increase investors from South Africa, we are ready to talk. We hope you would also create the same platform for business men from Nigeria who do business in South Africa”, he said.

The Governor also promised to commit to the existing relationship between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the ANC saying both have common ideology.

“We have so much to learn from ANC and we have so much to give in terms of the dynamics we (APC) have brought to the political landscape. We believe strongly that we need to do some interparty visitation and relationship”, he said.

Earlier, Chairman of the APC in Lagos, Chief Henry Ajomale said the history of the ANC and its iconic leader, late Nelson Mandela is deep rooted, adding that the two parties can benefit from each other on all fronts.

“Let me respectfully acknowledge our leader late Nelson Mandela. He is a man very respected in Nigeria. Those days during the struggle, some of us carried placards during the struggle to free South Africa.

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He stated this during a parley organized by the Lagos APC to formally present their gubernatorial candidate and his running mate, Dr. (Mrs) Oluranti Adebule, to media executives in Lagos.

The governor noted that the party was actually “spoilt for choice” by having a pool of competent aspirants to elect from, but that he was happy that Ambode emerged as the victorious flag bearer.

“It was a healthy problem; that we had many competent and accomplished aspirants to choose from. It clearly demonstrates the rich human capital we have in Lagos, in Lagos APC”

He added, “Our party had a democratic and transparent gubernatorial primaries, and I am proud and happy with the results it has produced. This is because Akin has been my choice from the beginning, and I say this unequivocally”

In his presentation, Governor Fashola described Ambode as “someone who has the ability to rigorously ensure that things tally, his accountability is just unmatched. He has the befitting skill-set needed to build upon the successes we have recorded so far, and that is why I am happy at his candidature”.

While reflecting on his 8-year tenure, Fashola noted that Lagos has consistently undergone enviable and noteworthy transformation, adding that Akinwunmi Ambode had the experience to sustain and even better such transformation.

“I have worked with Akin and I can attest to his vast experience. He knows the government and understands governance, and his application of this capacity-enhancing know-how will surely ensure that there is continuity in the tradition of excellence we are now known for in Lagos”.

In his response, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, who was full of appreciation to the Governor and the Party for making the parley happen, stated that public service was a form of nobility for him.

“All my life, I have practiced selfless service to humanity in varying capacities. This has enabled me to take public service as a noble one”. About his gubernatorial intention, Ambode echoed that despite being an accountant, his love for public service and natural knack for leadership led him to secure a Fullbright Scholarship for Public Leadership in Boston University, Massachusetts. He said such leadership know-how and a diligent skill-set gave productivity to his public service career, reiterating that the time seems right to take it to the next level.

In his words, “the success and productivity that characterized my public service career makes me believe strongly that I was conscripted to excel in service to the people, and this is the reason why I desire to serve Lagos as the Governor of the state”.

Apart from this leadership capabilities, Ambode intoned that the very helpful experience secured while he worked with former governor Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and also Governor Fashola, have equipped him with rich administrative bandwidth that places him in good stead to keep up with the tradition of excellence that the state and the party is known for.

The media parley gave him the opportunity to further intimate his audience with well thought-plans on how to sustain the successes already recorded.

While answering questions, Ambode said he sees a Lagos that is “safe, secure, cleaner and more prosperous, that is driven by qualitative service, equity and justice”.

He promised “strong leadership, selfless service, accountability and an excellent governance”, adding that “we have proved that governance can work, and I promise you that it will keep working”.

Ambode noted further that the party’s ideology is an ideology of progressives, and which is responsive and people-oriented.

“This ideology covers the two fundamental responsibilities of any serious government; that is, the protection of its citizens and their welfare. I humbly assure you that these are the two areas my government will also successfully address”

He asked for their support in this election period to achieve it, while also saying there is need to replicate such good at the Federal level.

Governor Fashola corroborated Mr. Ambode’s reply by stating that “government is something no one should experiment with. Getting this government going will not be difficult for an experienced Ambode”.

Governor Fashola and Ambode both appreciated the media men and women whose expertise in terms of constructive criticisms and ideas, contribute a sizable quota to achieving good governance.

The state APC party Chairman, Chief Henry Ajomale, capped off the interactive parley by remarking that the forthcoming election is a “simple choice between experience and experiment, I trust you all to make the wise choice and vote for the APC”.

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Others who defected included Alhaji Rafiu Jafojo, former deputy governor of Lagos State, Elders Council of PDP and Chief Tunde Daramola, former state secretary of the party. The declaration of the new members was held at the APC secretariat in Acme, Lagos.

Welcoming the new members, Chief Henry Ajomale, the State Chairman of APC, said they had made a good decision.
He promised that the party would be fair to them. Finnih, who spoke on behalf of the new members, said that the defectors had come for the unity of the party and not to divide it.

“We took the bold decision because we see the party as a prosperous party.We defected based on lack of internal democracy in the PDP and our aim is winning the presidential election by APC,” Finnih said.

The State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN), said that the party was glad to accommodate the new members.
Fashola urged them to ensure that the party’s interest was placed above individual interest, saying that there would be a level playing ground.

Meanwhile, the state chapter of PDP described the defection of Finnih and his group to the APC as a welcome development.

Mr Gani Taofik, the State Publicity Secretary,said “Finnih and his group have long been out of PDP.
“The defection ceremony today is just a charade for people who have long left our fold.

“Finnih and his group had always worked against the PDP even when they were our members. Their roles of playing moles and fifth columnists in our party have been extinguished. They had no choice but to be part and parcel of the APC, their real party.”

He advised other members of the party who are not willing to abide by its rules and loyalty to exit or risk being disciplined. The Lagos PDP can no longer tolerate insubordination. It is no longer business as usual. We want to enforce party discipline to the letter,” he said.

He, however, assured members that the party would emerge victorious in 2015 general elections.

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