Mrs. Tari Taylaur is a media professional and TV producer with fourteen years of experience in the private sector, social development and government. She is vying for the seat of Lagos State (LASG) House of Assembly, representing Eti-Osa 1 constituency, at the March 2023 elections.
In this exclusive interview with TheNewsGuru.com (TNG), she spoke about unique qualities that makes her the best candidate to represent Eti-Osa 1 constituency at the Lagos State House of Assembly, INEC’s preparation for March 18 elections, how she intends to transform the environment of Eti-Osa 1 constituency and sundry matters.
Excerpt:
From your education background, you are a media guru and have worked in both the public and private sectors. So, what do you intend bringing on board for the people of Eti Osa 1 constituency, that makes you think you are the best candidate to represent them at the Lagos State House of Assembly?
I want to give the people of Eti-Osa 1 quality representation that listens, cares, and works to fulfill their aspirations. I will be accountable to them and they will have direct access to me through my local constituency office, plus monthly physical and virtual forums.
With what played out in the last elections (Feb 25, 2023), like attacks on voters, thugs ceasing polling units and others- how confident are you that coming elections would be free and fair?
We always have to keep believing that the processes to bring about fair and credible elections that have been put forward by the 2022 Electoral Act will be followed. Yes, there were massive irregularities in the Feb 25th election, nevertheless we must go out again in faith that our voices have been heard, and our votes will count.
I call on all law enforcement agencies to be vigilant and dutiful in protecting our people. I am personally praying that God touches the hearts of all INEC officials, from top to bottom, to do the right thing
You are contesting under the platform of the Youth Party, YP, what really informed your decision to run under the party- which many said its unpopular in Lagos State?
It’s a growing party that has a strong grassroot base in Eti-Osa. Nothing of value gains popularity overnight! It is better to build a solid foundation so that when an opportunity comes, we are poised to deliver. This is what we have been doing in Youth Party; we will keep on building and gaining ground.
In 2019, the Lagos Assembly set up a committee to tackle environmental issue in Eti-Osa 1 constituency. However, you played a key role as Secretary of the LERA Environment Committee, Vice Chairman – Environment for Zone IV, and Executive Secretary of a subzone. Just a hint, what initiatives would you introduce to achieve a clean environment should the people of Eti Osa 1 constituency give you their votes?
Transforming the environment is a low-hanging fruit that will bring about a tangible improvement in the quality of life in Eti-Osa 1. I know the challenges, and I’m already working out solutions for a cleansed environment in Lekki, which we want to amplify all across Eti-Osa 1. This is something that I can show real-time results for after 6months of representing my constituency. There will be a clear shift in public orientation, which will directly impact the level of cleanliness. I have the network of collaborators, know-how, and strong desire to accomplish this.
What laws or policies would you introduce that will serve the aspirations of the people for better public services?
There are 3 key areas which will guide my legislative agenda for Eti-Osa 1: Cleansed Environment, Innovative Housing for Low-income Communities, and Youth Employment.
You once talked about cleaning Lagos and how you intend to prioritize the need for the network of drainages in the city to be cleaned regularly. Please, kindly shed more light on this.
I’m a strong advocate for clean gutters. Why have we allowed the gutters in front of our homes and offices to become refuse dumps? LAWMA sweeps the highways, but doesn’t touch the gutters, thereby our gutters have become public dustbins…terrible!
State sanitation laws mandate every property occupier to be responsible for the cleanliness of the immediate area around their premises, including the gutters. With proper public orientation and enforcement, as well as regular interventions in notoriously filthy areas, we can uphold the spirit of our laws and achieve a cleansed, wholesome Lagos that’s enjoyable to live in.
Let’s talk about INEC’s preparation for coming elections on Saturday, the BVAs and uploading of results to the IReV Portal, what are your fears?
Like every other decent Nigerian, I fear the needless loss of lives and personal injuries brought about by those who seek to impose their will on voters through violence and intimidation.
I call on all law enforcement agencies to be vigilant and dutiful in protecting our people. I am personally praying that God touches the hearts of all INEC officials, from top to bottom, to do the right thing!
Ahead of coming Saturday’s elections, what is your advice to your supporters and the electorates in general?
Please come out and vote. Stand firm for the new Nigeria we all want. We shall be victorious!