Diran Iyantan, the former Federal Commissioner for National Population Commission (NPC), representing Ondo State and a governorship aspirant under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 16th, 2024 governorship election in Ondo State, on Saturday said direct mode of primary is the only means that can guarantee transparency, fairness and all inclusiveness to select the governorship candidate of the party.
The Ikale-born APC chieftain, who said this while declaring his intention to run for the next governorship election, however, called on the national secretariat of the party to adopt the direct mode of primary to select the governorship candidate of the party.
Iyantan said; “the on ground three options; direct, indirect and consensus, for people that are very desperate to monetized the system they may be clamouring for the indirect primary so that the highest builder will carry the game.
“But, this is unacceptable to us now in the politics of Ondo State. We want mass participation of the people who will represent them and that is why we are vigorously pursuing the option of a direct primary, where every card carry members of the party will be eligible to participate in choosing who will be the flag-bearer of the party and I can tell you emphatically that our leaders who are great democrate are favourably deposed to this option.
“Most of all people contesting today, I am more experienced politically than them, I was born into the politics and I had been undergoing this since my young age. So I have learnt a lot. I am adequately prepared for this race.”
He, therefore, said he would prioritize the expansion of large-scale industries in the state, particularly in the realm of food production and other vital commodities if given the opportunity to govern the state.
According to him, “these initiatives will not only benefit the people of our state but also generate employment opportunities for our citizens.”
The former Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs in the state said; “My vision for Ondo State is one of inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainable development. I am committed to building a state where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive, regardless of their background or social status. I intend to create an enabling environment that attracts investments, stimulates job creation, and ensures the prosperity of our people.
“Education will be a top priority in my administration. I firmly believe that quality education is the bedrock of any successful society. I will work tirelessly to improve the standard of education in our state, ensuring that our children receive the best possible education and are equipped with the skills needed to compete globally.
“Agriculture will also be a key focus. Ondo State is blessed with fertile land and a favorable climate for agriculture. I will implement policies that support our farmers, providing them with modern techniques, access to finance, and markets for their produce. By doing so, we will not only ensure food security but also create employment opportunities and boost our economy.
“Furthermore, I am committed to improving healthcare services across the state. I will invest in modern healthcare facilities, equip our hospitals, and ensure the availability of essential drugs. No citizen of Ondo State should suffer due to lack of access to quality healthcare.
“I am not oblivious to the challenges that lie ahead. However, I firmly believe that with the collective efforts of our people, we can overcome any hurdle and achieve greatness. I am confident that together, we can build a prosperous Ondo State that we can all be proud of.
“Furthermore, I am committed to fostering the development of cottage industries within our rural communities, with the aim of bolstering their economic growth and commercial endeavors. Additionally, I will prioritize the expansion of large-scale industries in our state, particularly in the realm of food production and other vital commodities. These initiatives will not only benefit the people of our state but also generate employment opportunities for our citizens.
“I call on all the good people of Ondo State to join me in this journey. Let us unite, irrespective of political affiliations, and work towards a common goal for the betterment of our state. I am ready to listen to your concerns, engage in constructive dialogue, and implement policies that reflect the aspirations of our people.
“In conclusion, I stand before you today, humbled by your presence and inspired by the greatness of Ondo State. I am ready to serve, to lead, and to make a difference.”
Iyantan, who also spoke on his service during his four-year tenure, as the NPC Commissioner, representing Ondo state said, “during my time with the commission, there were extensive debates on the inclusion of biometric data collection. Unfortunately, due to cost management concerns, this idea was not pursued. However, I firmly believe that it was a missed opportunity. If we include this vital component of biometric data gathering in the NPC budget, it will not only authenticate everyone counted but also serve as a foolproof way to prevent crimes and address critical issues through proper identification and management of citizens’ data.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should prioritize the inclusion of biometric data gathering in the 2024 census. This will ensure that everyone counted is truly accounted for through biometric tracking data systems. By doing so, Nigeria will only need to update its census figures periodically without having to conduct the entire exercise of national headcount allover again. Moreover, with the press of a button, we will be able to access the data of any citizen with biometric watertight identification.
“In conclusion, I believe that embracing science and technology in our census exercise is not only a matter of efficiency but also a crucial step towards the development and progress of our great nation. I am committed to championing this cause, and I call on all stakeholders to join me in advocating for the inclusion of biometric data gathering in the 2024 census.”
