Prince Orji Nwafor-Orizu, President of the Society for the Advancement of Democracy (SAD), in this press interview with journalists over the weekend, speaks on the August 18 opposition meeting in Oyo State, the prospects of Obi, Atiku, Kwankwaso, Sheyi Makinde and perhaps, other oppositions uniting, and what democracy demands of both government and opposition. Our anchorman Ekunkonye Junior was there. Excerpts.
Sir, what is your view on the August 18 meeting of opposition leaders in Oyo State?
I support it. It is allowed in democracy. In the USA, UK and other developed nations, opposition comes together. That is normal.
Some say it’s just to remove Tinubu. Is that healthy for democracy?
No. Opposition should not be for the sole purpose of removing anyone. It should be issue-based. What better solution are you bringing?
Is there anything wrong in principle with them meeting?
Nothing. If they are fragmented, they will lose. They have a right, even a duty, to come together to make elections meaningful.
Will this alliance work?
It depends on the politicians. They must be realistic about their electoral strength.
Looking at 2023, what do the numbers say?
Atiku got 12 northern states. Tinubu got 12 including South-West. Obi got 12 in South-East, South-South and FCT. Together that is 24 states.
But can Obi win in the North?
In the last election he got about 7% in North-East and North-West. Can he improve? That is the question.
Can Atiku win in the South?
He did not win one southern state in 2023. To win presidency you need 2/3 of states, that is 24. He will need 6 from the South.
What about zoning?
The South says it’s their turn. The North says they have only done 2 years. Both arguments exist. The parties must negotiate.
Should anyone step down?
Yes. In alliances, one steps down. Stepping down is not the worst. But it must be by agreement.
Can Atiku be VP to Obi, or vice versa?
By political protocol, it will be difficult to ask Atiku to be VP to Obi. They must sit and decide who leads.
What role will Kwankwaso play?
He is key in Kano and the North-West. Any serious northern mobilization must carry him.
And Governor Makinde?
He is important. A sitting governor in South-West. He gives the meeting credibility and structure.
What should the opposition present to Nigerians?
A program. Not just criticism. Tell us what you will do on inflation, security, power. That is what will earn support.What is your advice to APC?
Use the campaign periodically to tell Nigerians your plan for the next four years. Don’t ask for votes because you are APC. Convince us.
Some say Obi should wait 8 years, how do you see that?
By the time Atiku finishes, Obi will be 73. That is still younger than Tinubu and Atiku. He must decide if waiting is strategic.
If they fail to unite, what happens?
APC will likely win again. You cannot defeat an incumbent with a divided opposition.
Is this meeting good for democracy?
Yes. Democracy thrives on strong opposition. What matters is that the opposition is issue-based, not personality-based.
Final word, sir?
My problem is not opposition. My problem is what opposition is bringing to the table. If they bring a better program, Nigerians will listen. August 18 is the beginning. Let’s watch.
