Chief Amos Gizo, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State, recently shared his views on key issues such as the removal of petroleum subsidies, national security, and the political landscape of Plateau State in an interview with Kolade Adeyemi.
When asked about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in addressing the country’s economic challenges, particularly the removal of subsidies and the appointment of service chiefs, Chief Amos Gizo expressed his support for the President’s actions.
He acknowledged that some people believe these steps have caused hardship, but emphasized that the subsidy regime has mainly benefited a few individuals, while the majority of citizens have not seen significant improvements in their lives. Gizo stated that the funds saved from subsidy removal can be redirected towards critical sectors like infrastructure, education, health, and other social amenities, ultimately benefiting Nigerians in the long run.
He also pointed out that the removal of subsidies allows for a competitive market, with petrol marketers already reducing prices to make it more affordable for the people.
Regarding the appointment of service chiefs, Chief Amos Gizo commended President Tinubu for swiftly taking action in reshaping the country’s security architecture. He emphasized that Tinubu’s appointments were made with a deliberate effort to address the perceived lopsidedness of the previous administration’s choices.
Gizo noted that this inclusiveness in selecting the service chiefs from various regions would ensure that security reports accurately represent the diverse security challenges faced across the country. He urged the appointed officials not to take the President’s humility and kindness for granted and emphasized that Tinubu is a leader who prioritizes results.
On the topic of Plateau politics, Chief Amos Gizo attended a stakeholders meeting organized by the Plateau APC. However, he expressed concerns about the meeting’s purpose, stating that it did not resemble a reconciliation effort as claimed by party leaders. Gizo highlighted the absence of an agenda and the lack of representation for his faction during the meeting. He believed that true reconciliation requires addressing the root causes of the conflict.
Gizo also pointed out instances in other states, like Nasarawa, where party members who were denied tickets successfully contested and won elections under a different party. He urged the party leaders to acknowledge the existence of factions and work towards genuine unity within the APC.
In response to questions about ministerial appointments and the party crisis, Chief Amos Gizo clarified that the prerogative for such appointments lies with the President and not the party. He suggested that in states without factions, the President may consider the list submitted by the party.
However, in states with factional divisions, Gizo believed President Tinubu would handle the situation accordingly, indicating that the President is aware of the circumstances and will make appropriate decisions.
Overall, Chief Amos Gizo expressed his support for President Tinubu’s actions in addressing the nation’s challenges, while also highlighting the need for genuine reconciliation within the Plateau APC and other states facing factional divisions.
