By Idowu Adebomi, Ado-Ekiti
The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju, has dismissed claims that the 10th National Assembly is a rubber stamp to the Executive.
According to the Presidential Aide, cooperation between both arms of government is essential for national progress.
Olarewaju, a former lawmaker, spoke in an interview while reflecting on his two and a half years as a liaison between the Presidency and the legislature.
According to him, harmony between the Executive and the National Assembly should not be misinterpreted as legislative weakness.
“Every National Assembly has been called a rubber stamp at some point. Nigerians want development and economic growth, yet they expect constant confrontation between the President and Parliament. Show me one country where both arms fight endlessly and still make progress,” he said.
He noted that prolonged conflicts between the Executive and Legislature often stall governance, stressing that crises only slow down national development.
Olarewaju attributed the smooth relationship under the Tinubu administration to the President’s deep understanding of parliamentary processes, noting that President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and several top aides are former lawmakers.
“This experience helps us resolve issues before they escalate. Once there is crisis, the country suffers,” he said.
On President Tinubu’s performance, the presidential aide said the administration had recorded notable gains, particularly in security and economic stabilisation.
“Without mincing words, the President is doing excellently well. There was a time bombs went off in Abuja itself. Today, despite challenges, coordination among the security agencies has improved significantly,” he stated.
He accused sections of the media and social media users of amplifying negative developments while downplaying positive indicators, including recent improvements in the foreign exchange market.
“Progress may be gradual, but it deserves acknowledgment,” he added.
Olarewaju also commended Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, describing his governance style as inclusive, modest and results-driven.
“The blind can see and the deaf can hear. Governor Oyebanji has demystified governance. No flamboyance, no unnecessary display. Roads are being fixed, bridges are nearing completion and infrastructure is improving quietly,” he said.
He added that the governor deserves a second term, citing commendations from political leaders across party lines, including former governors.
“When people across party divides speak positively about a governor, it tells you something. Oyebanji has earned the confidence,” he said.
Reacting to claims that the All Progressives Congress is pushing Nigeria towards a one-party state, Olarewaju dismissed the allegation, urging opposition parties to address their internal challenges.
“The President has said he will not organise opposition parties for them. If you cannot manage your own party, how can you manage Nigeria?” he asked.
Reflecting on his time in the House of Representatives, Olarewaju highlighted human capital development as his major achievement, citing youth empowerment programmes, ICT training, solar street lighting, classroom construction and health interventions.
He also disclosed that he initiated the bill for the establishment of a Federal Polytechnic of Agriculture in Ekiti State, which is nearing completion at the National Assembly.
“When leadership is sincere, the people will always testify,” he concluded.
