THEWILL NEWSPAPER, October 08, 2023

All Eyes on Supreme Court as Controversy Over Tinubu's Varsity Certificate Rages

• Atiku's Lawyers Beat Deadline, Tender President's Academic Record in Election Appeal Suit •Alleges Perjury, Claims Tinubu Submitted Forged Certificate to INEC •Atiku, PDP Manipulating Opinions, University Deposition Confirmed Tinubu Graduated With Honours - Morka

• Lawyers Divided on Usefulness, Admissibility of New Material

BY AINA OJONUGA

Going by the extent and depth of local and global reactions to the ongoing controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu's Chicago State University certificate saga, it is safe to say it is only the Supreme Court of Nigeria that would rest the matter. And that would be sometime in November when the threshold lapses for the apex court to adjudicate over the appeal on the tribunal court judgement filed by the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar and his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi.

In the meantime, supporters, advocates and other stakeholders have lined up behind either Atiku or Tinubu in support or against the issue. THEWILL also reliably gathered from sources close to the matter that Atiku's team has already filed its appeal thus beating Friday's deadline by the Supreme Court, a development confirmed by the press briefing hosted by the PDP flagbearer.

BACKGROUND

Shortly after the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal dismissed the petitions filed by Atiku and the PDP, as well as Obi and the LP against

the election of President Tinubu on September 6, 2023, Atiku rejected the verdict and asked his lawyers to file an appeal at the Supreme Court. The battle extended to the United States of America, where Atiku sought an order that the president’s academic record be released from the Chicago State University, CSU in a fresh bid to challenge the authenticity of the academic claims the President made in his form he filed with the electoral commission, INEC.

Nancy Maldonado, a judge of the United States District Court in Northern Illinois, having

...Controversy Over Tinubu's Varsity Certificate Rages

adopted the ruling of Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Gilbert of the U.S District Court, ordered Chicago State University to release the academic records of Tinubu to Atiku.

Maldonado had overruled Tinubu's objection to Magistrate Judge Gilbert’s ruling ordering the immediate release of the academic records by the CSU.

According to the President in his appeal, releasing the documents with deposition would cause him severe harm because they were private to him and would not be admissible in the ongoing petition against him in Nigeria. But Atiku filed another appeal, which she upheld and ordered that the documents be released within 48 hours.

“The Court overrules President Tinubu’s objections to Magistrate Judge Gilbert’s recommended ruling, and therefore adopts the ruling in full. Mr Abubakar’s application is therefore granted,” Maldonado ruled.

According to Atiku's lawyers, the documents sought included an example of a CSU diploma issued to Tinubu in 1979. Any example of a CSU diploma that “contains the same font, seal, signatures and wording” as Tinubu’s diploma issued in June 1979 and CSU documents certified and produced by Jamar Orr, an associate general counsel at CSU at the time. Atiku also instructed his lawyers to depose CSU officials about the authenticity of Tinubu’s academic documents.

As he disclosed during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Atiku would add the collected evidence to the suit he filed at the Supreme Court against Tinubu's election.

During the brief Thursday, October 5, 2023 press conference held in Abuja, Atiku, who called on his political rivals in the LP, Peter Obi and Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP, to join hands with him in his battles because the, “The reputation of our country is at stake and that affects Nigerians everywhere and wherever they may be,” accused Tinubu of certificate forgery.

Answering the question on the President's records in their possession, a lawyer with Atiku at the press briefing said a case of forgery had been established.

According to the lawyer, Kalu Kalu, Bola Ahmed Tinubu forged the certificate he presented to INEC.

"Two, the qualifying certificate from South West College to Chicago State University bears the name of a female student, indicating that the document does not belong to Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

"Three, the Chicago State University admission form has a claim that Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended Government College Lagos and graduated in 1970 whereas, indeed, the school was established in 1974.

“The same document has it that the owner is a black American and (in) the document which Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted to INEC, he denied having dual citizenship, which means it does not belong to him.

"Then, the same document, oral deposition, said

the A in Bola A Tinubu is Ahmed, but the NYSC certificate Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted to INEC has Adekunle. I don’t know where Adekunle emerged from", he said.

Explaining further to this newspaper, Kalu said, "There are authorities that say you do not have to be convicted for forgery before you are disqualified. This is simple man's knowledge. Presenting to INEC a document that you know to be false is forgery. The certificate which Tinubu presented to INEC, to his knowledge, is a clear case of forgery."

DEPOSITION BY THE CSU

According to the sworn, out-of-court oral testimony, otherwise known as deposition, made on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, the CSU registrar, Caleb Westberg, said the following, with regard to President Bola Tinubu’s academic records, “The university only has diplomas that students didn’t pick up in its possession. The university does not typically keep diplomas. I do not have the diploma that was submitted to INEC in our possession.''

On the replacement of the diploma, he said, “It is done by outside vendors”.

Westberg also said it was common for mistakes to be made in data entries from time to time.

“Before CSU, I was at UC, Berkeley and UC, Irving. I’m sure people make mistakes in data entry, from time to time,” he said, adding that it is possible that vendors are responsible for the certificate which Tinubu submitted to Nigeria’s electoral commission ahead of the 2023 presidential election.

“Some policies have changed over the years. When there is a replacement diploma, it is done by outside vendors,” he said.

Asked why President Tinubu did not pick up his replacement diploma from the school, he said: “You will have to ask him. The university only

has diplomas that students didn’t pick up in its possession. The university does not typically keep diplomas. I have the diploma that was made available to Mr Enahoro-Ebah in our possession because Mr Tinubu did not pick it up. I do not have the diploma that was submitted to INEC in our possession...”

Speaking on the matter regarding Tinubu’s sex, whether male or female, Westberg deposed, “Tinubu applied to the university as a male and a letter of admission was issued to a male. He matched the records in the file against the information provided by the student or on behalf of the student.

“We believe the Bola Tinubu who attended CSU is the same person who is the President of Nigeria today. There were materials in Mr Tinubu’s records that show that he was a male. I see the application to CSU. Mr Tinubu identified himself as a male.

“His letter of admission identified him as a male. It says: ‘Dear Mr Tinubu, I see the entry on APC’s website wherein President Bola Tinubu was said to have been born in Lagos on March 29, 1952.

“I don’t have a copy of the diploma that was submitted to INEC so I can’t comment on it.

“I am not aware of the fact that in the form that he submitted to INEC he claimed a different nationality or date of birth.

“Yes, our records show that he was born on March 29th. One has ‘1954’ while the other shows ‘1952’.

“From time to time, people do make mistakes when making such entries.”

Also, speaking on Tinubu's academic records, the depositors stated that President Tinubu’s credentials showed that he graduated from CSU in 1979 with a Bachelor degree in business administration, accounting and management. The university wrote, “The documents responsive to this request which CSU, after diligent search, has been able to locate are produced herewith and Bates labelled CSU 0008 through CSU 0010. The students’ names on these diplomas have been redacted for privacy reasons.

“CSU is also producing, Bates labelled as CSU 0011 and 0012, diplomas produced for other CSU students (with their names redacted for privacy) which match the format of the Tinubu replacement dated June 27, 1997.”

Present at the deposition were Michael Hayes who represented CSU; Victor P. Henderson and Oluwole Afolabi, who appeared for Bola Tinubu; the Intervenor; Caleb Westberg, Registrar of CSU and Deponent/Witness; Angela Lin, Dechert LLP and five lawyers from the firm who joined by Zoom.

REACTIONS

A constitutional lawyer with Citipoint Chambers in Lagos State, Tomi Olagunju, disagrees with Kalu's position that a case of certificate forgery by Tinubu exists.

Kalu had said, "What the Nigerian court needs to

There are authorities that say you do not have to be convicted for forgery before you are disqualified. This is simple man's knowledge. Presenting to INEC a document that you know to be false is forgery. The certificate which Tinubu presented to INEC, to his knowledge, is a clear case of forgery

...Controversy Over Tinubu's Varsity Certificate Rages

do is to ask that the original and false certificates be tendered and a case of forgery can be established."

Speaking with THEWILL on Friday, Olagunju said the case of forgery had not and cannot be established against Tinubu.

According to the section on the Electoral Act, you can get disqualified for an election if you submitted a forged certificate to INEC, he said, adding, “A standard legal stand on forgery in this case will be if there is an original certificate and a fake one. The registrar of CSU said that if diplomas given to you get missing, results issuance are outsourced to third parties. So, I do not see a smoking gun that the Atiku team says they have.

Mack Ogbamosa, another constitutional lawyer, supports Olagunju's submission. He said that in law, the intention to cheat must be established to make a case of forgery.

He said, "CSU has said that Tinubu attended the college and got a degree and that their former students can replace a lost certificate through a third party. So if President Tinubu submitted a disputed certificate, did he do it with the intention to cheat? That is the question and my answer is no."

President Bola Tinubu’s lawyer, Wole Afolabi, who represented the President in the United States of America during the deposition by the CSU has weighed in.

On Friday, he appeared on national television to speak on some alleged grey areas in the President’s Chicago State University, CSU, certificate.

On the issue of the appearance of 'F' in the President's admission result into CSU, Afolabi said Tinubu’s certificate indicated female as a result of a mix-up on the part of the University.

Asked why Tinubu’s certificate indicated “F” during the interview, Afolabi said, “The transcript that was provided by Southwest College indicated F. It was clear. All of the other particulars did match information of President Bola Tinubu.

“Now, the registrar was interviewed on why the discrepancies. He said the person applying for the school ticked the box of a male, not a female, and when the admission letter was issued it was issued to Mr Tinubu. When the question was put to the Registrar of CSU, Caleb Westberg, he said it is not unusual for universities to mix up. He has been to several universities. It is possible.”

Reacting to discrepancies on the signatures on the certificate, Afolabi said that certificates were not issued at the time of graduation, until one applied for them.

Afolabi said the person who issued the certificate Tinubu submitted to INEC might not have been in the university in 1979.

On the inter-party level, the governing All Progressives Congress, APC, has accused Atiku of "harbouring deep animosity towards Tinubu whom he believes was responsible for his electoral woes in 2007, 2015, 2019 and this year." The party urged the former Vice President to get used to the idea that he lost the presidential

election.

APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said "Mr Westberg was unmistaken and unambiguous in his deposition as to the fact that President Bola Tinubu graduated with honours from Chicago State University. He also emphatically provided clear answers on all other issues raised which we can sum up as follows: "That the person who is Nigeria's president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is the same person who attended Chicago State University. Mr Westberg said the diploma certificate, on which the PDP and Atiku seek to gaslight Nigerians and the whole world, is just a ceremonial document and what proved studentship at Chicago State University and in any American university is transcript, not certificate.

"He said the person admitted, based on the transcript from South West College, was a male named Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Westberg also added the courses taken by President Bola Tinubu at Southwest College were consistent with the courses he took at CSU."

Asked for the PDP's position on the ongoing controversy over Tinubu's varsity academic records, National Publicity of PDP, Mr Debo Olagunagba, said they had noted all the things said by the APC against its presidential candidate but would "respond in like manner very soon."

Pressed further, he only told THEWILL that the reaction "won't be long."

IMPLICATIONS

Kalu said he expects the Supreme Court to follow precedent and entertain the prayers of Abubakar and PDP for the existence of certificate forgery since it was not part of their claims at the Presidential election tribunal.

"There are instances where the Supreme Court held that an application to adduce new evidence at the appellate level can be presented. Just to cite two, first is Uzodinma vs INEC, a case filed by Senator Hope Uzodinma and the APC challenging the election of Emeka Ihedioha of the PDP AND

INEC over the Imo State governorship election held on March 8, 2019. The second one is the case, Amaechi vs INEC in 2008,"Kalu said.

Olagunju disagrees. Citing Section 132 (7&8) of the Electoral Act 2022, which states that an election petition must be filed within 21 days after the date of the declaration of results of the elections, he maintains that the petitioner cannot bring in fresh evidence before the Supreme Court.

"That can only be done in ordinary matters. Even at the level of the Court of Appeal, you cannot bring in fresh evidence after filling your petition. So I do not see any evidential value in it. Legally speaking, I also do not see any damage done whether within or outside the country. Given the circumstances of the case, they could not have stayed in Nigeria but in the USA for judgement," he said.

Then Olagunju made a political suggestion. "It may be useful in the long term. Maybe in 2027 (election)."

However, a presidential aide, Tunde Rahman, in a piece on Friday, titled, CSU Certificate Brouhaha: Setting The Record Straight, said; the former Vice President went “on a wild goose chase to the United States in search of President Bola Tinubu’s certificate.”

Rahman said that it is relevant to point out that in the U.S., premium is not placed on certificates, otherwise called diplomas, as we do here.

“Certificates are merely ceremonial. The emphasis is on transcripts. Employers and schools offering admissions for higher education will only ask for previous transcripts.

“In most cases, the certificates are also printed by third party vendors. Many certificates are left uncollected because what is important is the transcript. The CSU has diplomas that students didn’t pick up in its possession," he said.

According to Rahman, it is surprising that "Atiku and co. would claim President Tinubu forged his certificate simply because the CSU Registrar said he could not authenticate the certificate presented to him by Atiku’s lawyer as the document Tinubu presented to INEC for the 2023 Presidential Election. He said he cannot confirm because only Tinubu has the certificate which he ordered and which had been picked up for him and that the school does not keep students Certificate.

"Nowhere in the interrogation did Westberg use the word fake or forged as Atiku’s lawyer tried to make him say so.

''Fact is there is no scintilla of doubt that President Tinubu attended and graduated from CSU. As my colleague, Temitope Ajayi, pointed out in his widely-publicised tweet, “You can only forge a certificate you never earned,” President Tinubu honourably earned his degree and he had no reason to forge the certificate of a degree he had in his kitty. He graduated Summa Cum Laude, with distinction. He was on the Vice Chancellor’s Honour List for all his years in the school. Insinuation by anyone that he forged a certificate he worked for is sad and misleading.”

We believe the Bola Tinubu who attended CSU is the same person who is the President of Nigeria today. There were materials in Mr Tinubu’s records that show that he was a male. I see the application to CSU. Mr Tinubu identified himself as a male

FG Harps on Increased Domestic Production to Strengthen Naira

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, on Friday said Nigeria must increase production to strengthen the naira and boost the economy.

Nnaji stated this at a press conference on readiness for implementation of Presidential Executive Order N0 5 in Abuja .

The Presidential Executive Order No. 5 is geared towards achieving self-reliance, self-sufficiency through local content development.

He said the value of the naira would appreciate when the country started producing rather than importing, adding citizens would benefit from a more producing economy.

“If we have made in Nigeria products, we can no longer import and the stress on the naira will reduce.

“When we stop importation of goods and products, we can easily produce here, the value of our currency will appreciate.

“That’s part of the advantage that comes with Presidential Executive Order No 5,’’ the minister said.

Nnaji noted that through his ministry, President Bola Tinubu would create a conducive environment to support the innovative spirit of Nigerian youths and entrepreneurs.

He said, “We see it as a pivotal moment in our nation’s history that will propel Nigeria to new heights of innovation and technological advancement.

The minister said that the Executive Order 5 would address challenges by providing support for made-inNigeria goods and services.

”The order will develop home-grown capability and the capacity to maintain, redesign, reproduce, rededicate and duplicate any infrastructure built in Nigeria for selfreliance and development.

“The Order also seeks to closely monitor and promote the capacity of Nigerian professionals and contractors in science, engineering and technological progress to compete with their counterparts globally,” Nnaji said. He added that full implementation of the order would bolster the economy, create jobs, reduce poverty and usher in a brighter future for Nigeria.

The minister said the ministry was currently developing a national strategy for competitiveness in raw materials and product development.

Ex-NBA President, Akpata, Joins Edo Governorship Race

Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olumide Akpata, on Thursday declared his intention to contest the Edo 2024 governorship election.

Akpata, who declared his intention under the Labour Party, said he decided to aspire on the platform of the LP because the party was peopleoriented.

He said that he was motivated by his interest for the people, adding that he had the experience and the capacity to lead the people of Edo.

Akpata, who lamented that the people had been taken out of the equation in governance and politics, said if given the opportunity, he would change the narrative.

“My interest is for the people of Edo State. And what I find out in politics and governance in Nigeria today is that the people have been taken out of the equation. No body cares about the people.

“So, when I look around, the only party I find to be people-oriented and interested in the lots of our people is Labour Party.

“So I have come here to express my interest and to carry the people along,” he said.

He promised to take the Labour Party to greater heights if he emerged as the candidate of the party in the primary.

State Chairman of the party, Kelly Ogbaloi, said the Working Committee had endorsed his aspiration.

He promised to provide a level-playing ground for all aspirants in the party.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governorship election, according to INEC time table, is scheduled for Sept. 21, 2024.

Address Insecurity

Now, National Youth Assembly Tells FG

The National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN), an independent youth-centric group, has called for urgent action by the Federal Government to address the prevailing insecurity in the country.

This is contained in a statement by the National Speaker of NYAN, Rt. Hon. Usman Bashir Shagari, on Friday in Abuja.

He underscored the Assembly’s unwavering commitment to fostering a secured Nigeria for all citizens.

“The recent abduction of schoolgirls in Zamfara has brought renewed anguish and discontent among Nigerians.

“The NYAN stands united with the families affected by this heinous act and we urge immediate action from the government to ensure the safe return of these innocent girls.

“We express our utmost disappointment with the current outcome and call on the government to take swift and decisive measures to secure their release.

“However, in spite of our disappointment, we remain resolute in our commitment to constructive engagement with the government and respective parties.

NYAN has been actively engaging with CSOs and youth groups on various platforms to facilitate discussions, propose solutions, and advocate for stronger security measures,” Shagari said.

According to him, collaborations and consultations are crucial in addressing the multifaceted challenges our nation faces.

“Furthermore, we urge the government to prioritise the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.

“We call for increased investment in security infrastructure, enhanced intelligence gathering, and the prompt reformation of the security agencies to ensure their effectiveness and accountability.

“NYAN lends its voice to millions of concerned Nigerian citizens who yearn for a secure and prosperous Nation.

“We implore the government to take immediate and decisive action to restore peace to our communities and safeguard the lives and future of our citizens,” Shagari said. (NAN)

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; being received by the Minister of Information and National Orintation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi and Chairman of the occasion and Publisher, Vanguard Newspaper, Mr Sam Amuka, during a business lunch organised by Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) in Abuja on October 5, 2023.

Achonu, Anyanwu Battle Uzodinma For Douglas House

The preparation for the Imo State Governorship Election scheduled to take place on November 11, 2023 has reached a feverish point as all stakeholders are doing everything possible to make the exercise a successful one.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), security agencies led by the Nigeria Police and the various candidates and political parties participating in the election are making efforts to ensure that it is successful.

According to schedule, INEC is expected to complete the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) on October 9, 2023. The commission has said that 241, 715 PVCs are yet to be collected by voters in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa States, with just two weeks to the October 9, 2023 deadline for the collection of the cards, ahead of the November 11 off-cycle election.

The electoral umpire said about 134,000 PVCs had not been claimed by prospective voters in Imo State. It admonished registered voters to pick up their cards without delay, warning that it will not extend the PVCs collection in the states.

Speaking on the situation in Imo State, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Sylvia Agu, disclosed that INEC resumed the issuance of PVCs for the election on September 11 and the exercise would continue till October 9.

She revealed that all non-sensitive materials had been received and would be distributed to

the various local government areas of the state appropriately..

Although 17 candidates and political parties have been registered for the coming election in Imo State by INEC, political analysts believe the race is between three parties and their candidates.

The main contenders are the incumbent Governor Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress

(APC); Senator Samuel Anyanwu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Senator Athan Achonu of the Labour Party (LP).

Ahead of the election, Governor Uzodinma and Anyanwu are already battling each other, with the two of them boasting of winning the election.

Uzodinma told the PDP candidate, Samuel Anyanwu to prepare for defeat. The governor said this while reacting to Anyanwu’s comment that the three lawmakers from PDP who defected to APC were irrelevant to the party.

Anyanwu, who is a former national secretary of PDP, countered a recent publication which reported that Uzodinma would emerge victorious, insisting that he would defeat Uzodinma despite the defection of some lawmakers in the state and their supporters to APC.

The people of Imo state expect a keen contest. They are of the opinion that the election will be a litmus test for the administration of Uzodinma.

Some argue that the election is a major battle for survival for the opposition parties, especially the PDP in the state.

Uzodinma (APC)

Governor Hope Uzodinma has been fully in charge in Imo in the last three years.

Although 17 candidates and political parties have been registered for the coming election in Imo State by INEC, political analysts believe the race is between three parties and their candidates

BY AYO ESAN

...Battle Uzodinma For Douglas House

He is the Chairman of the APC Governors Forum, popularly referred to as the Progressives Governors Forum. So his party, the APC is also the ruling party in the state.

APC became the ruling party during the era of a former governor of the state, Senator Rochas Okorocha, following the merger of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) with other political parties to birth the APC. The latter has continued to wax stronger in the state ever since. More politicians have joined the party, which still has PDP as its major rival at elections.

Uzodinma secured a second term ticket and there has not been any major internal crisis arising from the conduct of the APC governorship primary because he is the only aspirant from the party. He was unanimously adopted as the APC candidate.

In order to secure a second term for the governor, APC set up a 609-member national campaign council described as an assemblage of carefully selected men and women of political pedigrees, party leaders and chieftains, including state governors, ministers, lawmakers, technocrats, field canvassers and coordinators.

The campaign council was recently inaugurated at a ceremony held at the Ndubuisi Kanu Square in Owerri, the state capital.

What makes the APC campaign council formidable and unique is that it also brings together gladiators and political enemies, like former governor Rochas Okorocha, his in-law, Uche Nwosu, among others who were not on the same page with Uzodinma. Of course, their inclusion was certainly strategic and will not only make a bold statement to other contestants but also signpost A possible electoral victory for the ruling party even before the conduct of the election.

The state chapter of the APC and the candidate himself believe his first-term achievements were blissful and intimidating. To them, this will serve as a testimony to voters in the forthcoming election. Uzodinma himself is confident of victory as he boasted that he would win by a landslide even if the election is adjusted backwards.

He has been expressing his confidence as he said there was no iota of doubt that the Imolites had solidly endorsed his second term mandate.

He said, “My great people of Imo State, just as I have always said, the movement is beyond sectional and party sentiments. It is a consolidation of the gains of my administration in the past years, having restored the state from its deplorable condition.

“I cannot walk through this alone, your mandate I hold for the first four years and your mandate I seek for the next four years. Together, we have recovered our dear state, rehabilitated our institutions and reconstructed our infrastructures.

“It is now time for us to usher in the next level of shared prosperity where the reforms and policies we have instituted shall play a vital role in our economic growth and stability for the benefit of all. We are ready for the election and even if the election is held tomorrow, I will win,” he boasted.

“For those who want to take back Imo, tell them that Hope Uzodinma has already brought our Imo state back. Now it is our time to secure the gains and move ahead.”

APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje,

has equally applauded Governor Uzodinma for his “revolutionary achievements” in Imo State.

ANYANWU (PDP)

Emeka Nnaemeka Anyanwu, former National Secretary of the PDP, is the candidate of the PDP. Born on June 18, 1965, he represented the Imo East Senatorial District in the Eighth Senate. He declared to run for governor in the 2019 elections but lost to Chukwuemeka in the party’s primary election. His pursuit of the proverbial Golden Fleece took him to various institutions of higher learning, including the University of Port-Harcourt, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Political Administration. He is also a graduate of the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom; Judge Business School and Harvard University’s Kennedy School in the United States.

Anyanwu was Chairman of the Ikeduru Local Government Area in Imo State between 2004 and 2007. He was also a member of the Imo State House of Assembly from 2007 to 2015.

In the Senate, he was a member of the committees on Ethics, Privileges and Public Positions and Customs, Exercise and Tariff.

The PDP, on which platform he is contesting, no doubt is one of the strongest parties in the state. The party is deeply rooted in the heart of the people, as it has governed the state for a number of years. It lost power in 2011 when Senator Rochas Okorocha emerged as the governor of Imo through the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

The PDP has not been the same since it became an opposition party. It has weathered storm after storm before and even after it lost the presidential election in 2015. The party has not known peace ever since. Both Anyanwu and a former governor of the state, Emeka Ihedioha, have been involved in a struggle for supremacy within the opposition party. The situation persisted until Ihedioha quietly pulled out of the governorship race and Anyanwu was unanimously adopted as the candidate of PDP for the November 11 election in Imo.

Achonu (Labour Party)

Athan Nneji Achonu, a former Senator, had earlier represented Imo North at the Federal House of Representatives. He was born on May 31, 1959 and hails from Okigwe in Imo State. He had his early education at Madonna High School Etiti in Imo State, Government College Umuahia in Abia State and then proceeded to John Cabot University, Rome, Italy.

Achonu is popularly known as the one-armed General. He is a renowned agronomist. The spectacular thing about this courageous man is the fact that he has only one arm. Many would have perceived this as a disability, but he has not allowed that to deter him in his ambition. He is an astute businessman who has over the years recorded giant achievements in the business world.

In 2015, Chief Athan Nneji Achonu contested for the Imo South Senatorial seat and was declared winner on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party. However, in December 2015, the Appeal Court sitting in Owerri, Imo State capital overturned his election at the instance of the candidate of the Accord Party who argued that Athan’s party’s logo was not included in the ballot papers used for the 2015 National Assembly election.

The candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Benjamin Uwajumogu, was then declared the winner of the polls.

The Labour Party on which platform Achonu is contesting became popular in the state because of the entry of a former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi into the February 25 presidential race. It led to a massive movement of the people into the Obidient Movement. The LP became an instant home for many cutting across party lines and the beautiful bride among power brokers in the state. Curiously, the LP was mired in crisis before the conduct of party primaries. The traces of that internal problem subsisted, leading to the conduct of parallel primaries.

Since the emergence of Achonu as a candidate, the national leadership of the party and Peter Obi has affirmed his candidacy. The 27 LGA party chairmen have also affirmed the candidacy of Achonu, reassuring him of their support as the authentic LP candidate.

Uzodinma himself is confident of victory as he boasted that he would win by a landslide even if the election is adjusted backwards

POLITICS

Ondo Dep Gov Faces Impeachment Threat

BY AYO ESAN

This may not be the best of time for the embattled Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as he is making efforts to sustain his tenure in office.

He is doing everything possible within his power, especially through the use of constitutional means, to avert his removal from office by the State House of Assembly.

He has asked the Chief Judge of the state, Olusegun Odusola, to ignore the directive of the House of Assembly to set up a seven-member panel to investigate him.

The Assembly allegedly accused Aiyedatiwa of gross misconduct and threatened to remove him from office.

The deputy governor was served with the notice of allegations made by the House, but he ignored its directive to respond within seven days. Instead, he obtained an order from a Federal High Court in Abuja to stop the lawmakers from proceeding with the process of his impeachment.

But the assembly, led by Olamide Oladiji, went ahead with the proceedings despite the court order. Upon the expiration of the the sevenday ultimatum, it directed the Chief Judge to set up a panel in line with the provisions of the Constitution.

Counsel to Aiyedatiwa, Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa, last Thursday, in a letter, told the Chief Judge that it would amount to contempt of court to proceed with the impeachment process while two cases over the matter are before the Federal High Court in Abuja and the High Court in Akure.

The lawyer said Aiyedatiwa did not respond to the notice from the House of Assembly because of the restraining order issued by the Federal High Court.

“Under and by virtue of section 287(3) of the Constitution, ‘all persons and authorities in Nigeria’ are to obey and give effect to the orders of the Federal High Court,” he said in the letter to the Chief Judge.

“Our Client swore on oath to defend the Constitution and he cannot act against the said Constitution to disobey the valid and subsisting order of the Federal High Court of Nigeria which has halted the removal proceedings.

“Our Client has not been personally served with any valid Notice of acts of gross misconduct as required by law. Our Client is not in receipt of any valid Notice of acts of gross misconduct properly so issued and bearing the authority of the House of Assembly of Ondo State to which he can respond.

“Our Client has filed and served two separate applications upon the Ondo State House of Assembly , seeking orders of interlocutory injunction against the removal proceedings and also to stay further proceedings in respect of the invalid Notice, which was illegally issued and improperly served.”

Olu-Adegboruwa said that since the House of Assembly had already joined matters in the court over the issue by filing an appeal against the restraining order, it would be against the law to continue with the impeachment process without awaiting the outcome of the case.

“The House of Assembly having submitted to the jurisdiction of the Court by filing processes in Suit No. AK/348/2023 is pending before the High Court in Akure and also purporting to file a complaint before the National Judicial Council in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1249/2023 before the Federal High Court Abuja, is fully aware of and cognizant of the authority of the Court over the subject matter of the removal proceedings against our Client,” he further argued.

“Consequently, it is our considered view that the matter

of the planned removal of the Deputy Governor of Ondo State is now subjudice.

“Parties should follow the due process of law, the House of Assembly itself being a creation of law, seeking to implement the provisions of law, rightly or wrongly.

“It cannot and should not be allowed to take the law into its own hands by openly disregarding a subsisting order of the court and other court processes duly served upon it.”

Aiyedatiwa’s ordeal began on September 20, 2023 when nine members of the State House of Assembly commenced the process of removing him from office.

The lawmakers signed the impeachment notice, a petition that detailed the offences that the deputy governor was accused of committing. The petition was presented at an emergency plenary held on Wednesday, September 20.

The Clerk of the Assembly, Benjamin Jaiyeola, was directed by the lawmakers to write to Aiyedatiwa on the allegations against him. This development took place about two weeks after his Principal, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, returned from his medical vacation abroad.

Before going on vacation, Akeredolu had handed affairs of the state to his deputy. On his return, the Ondo govenor sacked the entire media crew of the deputy governor.

The Ondo State House of Assembly is made up of 26 lawmakers. Nine lawmakers, the equivalent of one-third, signed the impeachment notice. The next process will require two-thirds of the Assembly to decide via votes whether to investigate the allegation against the deputy governor or not.

To counter the Assembly’s move, Aiyedatiwa approached the court to stop the process and sued the state’s House of Assembly over the impeachment process initiated by the lawmakers against him. The suit, with number AK/348/2023, which was filed at the High Court of Akure on Monday, 25 September and was essentially to stop the state lawmakers from impeaching him.

In the suit filed on his behalf by his lawyer, Adegboruwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, the embattled deputy governor is seeking various declarations and remedies to halt the impeachment proceedings.

Aiyedatiwa is specifically seeking a declaration from the court that the State House of Assembly lacks the competence to proceed with his impeachment, arguing that such proceedings violate his constitutional and fundamental rights to a fair hearing.

The deputy governor said the removal of his media aides and their reassignment to the Ministry of Information and Orientation by Governor Akeredolu is a breach of his rights and privileges as the deputy governor of the state. He also sought a declaration affirming that his office, tenure, status, rights, and privileges are safeguarded by the Constitution.

Additionally, he insisted on his entitlement to a fair hearing in the House of Assembly’s determination of his civil rights and obligations as deputy governor. In the suit, he also raised concern about potential bias against him in the impeachment process, citing the House of Assembly’s previous statements and actions, including the conduct of media trials without providing him prior notice of alleged misconduct.

Aiyedatiwa also sought an order to stop the Chief Judge of the state from accepting or acting upon any request from the House to set up any panel to investigate any acts of gross misconduct against him.

Essentially, Aiyedatiwa is requesting the court to intervene by halting the impeachment proceedings until his claims are thoroughly examined and adjudicated upon, ensuring that his rights and protections under the law are upheld throughout this legal process.

The Ondo State Government, Governor Akeredolu, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Clerk of the House and the Chief Judge of the state have been named as defendants in the suit alongside the State House of Assembly.

Counsel to Aiyedatiwa, Ebun OluAdegboruwa, last Thursday, in a letter, told the Chief Judge that it would amount to contempt of court to proceed with the impeachment process while two cases over the matter are before the Federal High Court in Abuja and the High Court in Akure

POLITICS NEWS

EFCC, NJI, Stakeholders Seek Legislation on Unexplained Wealth

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), National Judicial Institute, (NJI) and other stakeholders in the anti-graft war, have called for a robust, globally-acceptable legislation to tackle the issue of unexplained wealth in Nigeria. This call came out of a Communiqué issued on Thursday, at the end of the 5th EFCC-NJI Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges at the NJI, Jabi, Abuja.

According to the Communiqué, “there is an urgent need to enact legislation to address the issue of possession of unexplained wealth or assets”.

A Speaker at the 7th Session of the Workshop, Mr. Wahab Shittu, SAN, pointed out that, unlike what obtained in other territories like the United States of America, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Kenya, Nigeria is yet to enact a law to address the issue of unexplained wealth.

“In Nigeria, the issue of unexplained wealth has long been a cause of worry. Luxurious lives and lavish possessions that seem at odds with declared salaries have prompted inquiries regarding the sources of such wealth”, he said. To address this issue, the Workshop rose with a call on the National Assembly to come up with a legislation against it. Other issues that form the body of the Communiqué include the need for enhanced training for judicial officers and staff of anti-corruption agencies to deal with new trends and acquire skills required for the complex processes of asset tracking and seizures, plea bargaining,

crypto currency, data protection, artificial intelligence and other emerging typologies of economic and financial crimes.

The Communiqué also reads that, “Efforts should be made by all stakeholders to achieve full implementation of the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022 to ensure that persons are not allowed to benefit from the proceeds of their crime”. The issue of a development of a comprehensive whistle blower and Witness Protection Act to aid the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases by relevant agencies, was also raised, among others.

Participants at the Three-Day Workshop, which featured respectable jurists, including Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, Judges of the Federal and State High Courts, senior members of the bar, including Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Acting Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Abdulkarim Chukkol, Secretary to the Commission, Dr. George Ekpungu, investigators, prosecutors across the country , called on members of the National Assembly and Nigerian Bar Association to be future participants, “as the issues discussed in the Workshop also affect their members”.

The Workshop, themed: “Consolidating on the Gains in the Fight Against Economic and Financial Crimes in Nigeria”, was declared open on Tuesday by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola in attendance, among other dignitaries.

Obaseki Promises Better Support For Judiciary Over 500 Women to Participate in COWLSO Programmes

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured of greater support for the judiciary, ensuring better environment, infrastructure, technology and other incentives to empower Justices to effectively and efficiently perform their duties.

Obaseki, who gave the assurance while briefing journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, said his administration, plans to build safe and comfortable judges’ quarters with recreational facilities at Auchi, Ubiaja, Ekpoma, Sabongida-Ora and Afuze.

The governor while commending the judiciary for the role in maintaining law and order in the State said his administration will continue to support the judiciary, providing them with the right environment for quick justice delivery.

He said, “We are concerned about housing our judges in safer quarters while you are in office, just as we are doing for the executive and other public servants.

“I am glad that we have been able to move some of you to the property at Aguobasimwin Judges accommodation. We are relocating the Civil Service Club from its current location to a better location.

“The space for the Civil Service Club, other adjoining properties behind the Club and other properties at Osadebey Avenue will give us 16,000 square meters of land where we will build ultra-modern judges quarters, with all the recreational facilities to enable us to accommodate more judges peacefully and safely.”

Obaseki further noted, “We expect to do the same in your out stations in Auchi, Ubiaja, Ekpoma, Sabongida-Ora, Afuze where you have Courts as we want to build safe and quality houses for Judges.

“As for housing provision after leaving office, we have set up a new agency, New Town Development Authority and moved from the traditional way of dealing with land issues to a more proper agency which takes up the landmarks and turns it into a city like the CORA City now being developed in Edo State.”

AYO ESAN

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has unveiled activities lined up for the 23rd National Women’s Conference, an initiative of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), noting that this year’s conference will feature over 5,000 Women.

Speaking at a press briefing held at Lagos House, Ikeja, Dr. Sanwo-Olu explained that the annual programme has earned a remarkable reputation and assumed the status of a purpose-driven international conference through which women are galvanized and inspired to make a difference. She said this year’s edition of the National Women’s Conference is tailored towards assisting women to be more productive and positively influence the society.

According to her, the theme for this year’s Conference is “Unleash Your Potential” and will be a combination of both virtual and physical participation, noting that the conference will commence on Tuesday, 17th and run till Thursday, 19th October 2023 at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island Lagos.

The First lady who doubles as the Chairman of Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials said the conference will have in attendance eminent personalities such as the mother of the Nation and Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, OON as the mother of the Day and Special Guest of Honour.

In her words “Other Special Guests of Honour gracing this year’s grand event are, His Excellency, President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; Senator Godswill Akpabio, Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde and Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State”.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde (left) and Netherlands Ambassador to Nigeria, Wolters Plomp, during his courtesy visit to Governor's Office, Secretariat, Ibadan recently.

Ending Tragic Incidents on Federal Roads

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) recently threatened to embark on a strike nationwide in protest against the deplorable condition of federal roads across the country.

NUPENG was reacting to an accident, a petrol tanker explosion in fact, at Koko junction, near Ologbo, on the Benin-Warri Expressway.

Eye witness accounts claimed that while trying to navigate a failed portion of the road, a tanker laden with petrol fell on its side and spilled its content, attracting some residents who went on to scoop the fuel. In the process, the tanker exploded, killing scores of people and injuring several more.

Many lost their lives in the ensuing inferno, burnt beyond recognition and property valued at millions of naira, including cars and trucks, were destroyed. The sad event occurred on October 1, the same day that Nigeria celebrated 63 years of political independence from British colonial rule. The general mood across the country, which was not entirely buoyant as it were, was further dampened when the news of the tragedy broke. The entire nation was plunged into deep mourning.

In a public statement, NUPENG blamed the incident on the nonchalant attitude of the country’s leadership and its insensitivity to the poor state of federal roads.

“This was an accident that waited so long to happen” the union said, claiming that its leaders did make some efforts on different occasions to avert it by embarking on palliative measures to shore up failed portions of the road but in vain.

The Benin-Warri Road incident captures the exact situation on Nigerian roads today. Nigeria has about 195,000 kilometres of road network, perhaps the largest in West Africa, and federal roads constitute a sizeable chunk of this figure. Unfortunately due to poor maintenance

and low quality materials used for repairs, the general condition of the roads is fast deteriorating.

With very little effort on the part of the Federal Government to rehabilitate the failed ones, federal roads have virtually become death traps. According to data released by the Word Health Organisation (WHO), the World Bank and Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps, deaths resulting from road accidents are on the rise in Nigeria. About 42,000 people die in road accidents, described as the country’s third-leading cause of overall deaths, annually.

The WHO says that Nigeria has an estimated 1,042 deaths a year for every 100,000 vehicles, one of the highest rates of road fatalities in the world. Sadly most of these deaths are not only avoidable but also caused by bad spots on federal roads. It goes without saying that there is a preponderance of failed roads and bridges across Nigeria. The current Minister of Works and Housing, David Umahi, noted this himself during his recent tour of federal road projects across the country. Based on his findings, the minister blamed the deteriorating condition of the roads on contractors. He accused contractors of using low quality materials to construct roads, a fact that has always been too obvious to Nigerians, which has also constantly ensured that the roads remained in a permanent state of disrepair.

Contractors have always posed a serious challenge to road development in Nigeria, no doubt. This is evident in the number of failed roads, estimated to be about 260 by no other person than the Works minister himself, and bridges. Government must find a way to deal effectively with any contractor that constitutes a clog in the wheel of progressive road development. Henceforth, contractors must be thoroughly screened before they are given approval to handle road projects. Emphasis must be on competence and integrity. In addition, the National

Assembly should consider introducing a law that will sanction contractors for poor handling of road projects.

For a minister that is saddled with the unenviable task of revamping the country’s road infrastructure, Umahi sure has a lot on his hands. Hopefully the minister will do well to permanently address the issue of buck-passing between the Federal Government and the states over the repair of failed federal roads. The matter became a subject of deep concern recently, following the reactions of the Governors of Delta and Edo States to the October 1, 2023 tragic incident on the Warri-Benin Road. Both governors had blamed the incident on the deplorable condition of federal roads.

Needless to add, despite an alarming rise in fatalities caused by road accidents, state governments have lately been reluctant to take up the responsibility of rehabilitating failed portions of federal roads in their respective states. The excuse usually given for this attitude is that the Federal Government no longer refunds monies spent by the states on repair of federal roads. This is counter-productive and should be discouraged.

State governments ought to be reminded that the safety and security of people living in and transiting through their states is their constitutional duty and the maintenance of all roads, federal or not, in their states is part of this duty.

Umahi has recommended the use of concrete pavement technology in road construction in place of asphalt. Concrete pavement, the minister noted, is not only cost-effective but also guarantees durability. If adopted as a policy, roads in Nigeria will last 50 years at least. This is a welcome development and a radical departure from the norm.

Now is the time for the Federal Government and the states to wake up to their responsibilities. Nigerians have suffered enough. They deserve some respite. This is the time to revamp the country’s declining road infrastructure.

State governments ought to be reminded that the safety and security of people living in and transiting through their states is their constitutional duty and the maintenance of all roads, federal or not, in their states is part of this duty

THEWILL NEWSPAPER TEAM

Fuel Subsidy Removal: President Tinubu Goofed

BY AUDU LIBERTY OSENI

In the last three months, I have written three articles showing clearly how fuel subsidy removal was the greatest error ever committed by a Nigerian leader. Information that the Bola Tinubu Administration paid N169.4 billion as a subsidy in August this year to keep the pump price at N620 per litre, validates my position on the subject.

President Tinubu and his team know that Nigerians are resilient. What he does not know is that there is a limit to endurance and the peoples tolerance of suffering.

Tinubu’s government has decided to bring back the fuel subsidy to avert the likelihood of mass anger, which outcome cannot be exactly predicted.

THE PROBLEM IS THAT AFRICAN LEADERS AND THEIR WESTERN ALLIES DO NOT HAVE THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE IMF AND WORLD BANK NEOLIBERAL CAPITALIST PRESCRIPTION IS TO KEEP AFRICA PERMANENTLY UNDERDEVELOPED BY DESTROYING CITIZENS’ PURCHASING POWER AND THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR

It is clear that the President and his market fundamentalist team have come to the realisation that we are right when we argue that fuel subsidy is energy security that Nigeria cannot do without.

They can no longer sustain their arguments about subsidy removal, they now agree with some of us that maintaining fuel subsidy, which has a direct impact on the price of commodities, is a mandatory duty and not an option. They know they have goofed.

Perhaps those who feed on taxpayers’ money to think for the government failed to educate Tinubu that removing the subsidy in a country like Nigeria with a huge poverty rate and pronounced infrastructural deficit, with a poor transportation system, is economy blasphemy that will lead to mass suffering and deaths.

Is the Federal Government unaware of this truth? The West, particularly the United States, who are quick to prescribe neoliberal capitalism to Africa as a solution for economic challenges, does not practise that on its own soil.

The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have pushed Mr Tinubu’s government and other African states to embrace Neoliberal capitalism. The hypocrisy in their action is that they ensure that in the United States, Britain and the likes of them, that

governments are committed to providing basic welfare packages for their citizens.

Unfortunately, the West, which has sustained a welfarist ideology by ensuring that its citizens live a decent life and government bears the costs, is using the IMF and World Bank to force Mr Tinubu’s government and other countries in Africa to embrace neoliberal capitalism. African countries are pushing their citizens into poverty, with fuel subsidy removal as the most effective weapon. The problem is that African leaders and their Western allies do not have the understanding that the IMF and World Bank neoliberal capitalist prescription is to keep Africa permanently underdeveloped by destroying citizens’ purchasing power and the manufacturing sector.

The bitter truth which Mr Tinubu’s government and his neoliberal ideology auxiliary economists have refused to accept is that there is no country in the world that has made any progress on the basis of the IMF and World Bank neoliberal capitalism model, which they push in the guise of subsidy removal.

It is a known fact that countries like China and India, which have made measurable impacts in lifting their citizens from poverty and growing their economies, refused to play by IMF and World Bank rules. Tinubu has to have this kind of understanding if he must put Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth.

Tinubu and his neoliberal Economists propagandists must know that the United States and the West do not practice this kind of wicked capitalist ideology they push to Africa. At least, the 2009 global recession has shown that in the United States, neoliberal capitalism is a mere intellectual exercise that is not applicable to real-life situations.

Even as the US battled the economic recessions, the government did not remove subsidies, didn’t sack workers, didn’t crumble its economy through currency devaluation and did not tax the citizens to raise money. As a matter of fact, the US government increased its expenditure and lowered taxes. The government did that so the poor would have money to spend on ground since the recession happened as a result of inadequate money in circulation. The private sector got bailouts from the government against the neoliberal rules of economic development.

Evidence before us is that subsidy is not the problem; it is the corruption in the way it has been managed. Nigerians must demand that Mr Tinubu’s government addresses corruption in the fuel subsidy management and reinstate it for the common good of all citizens.

The neoliberal Economists propagandists, who have lost touch with reality and have refused to embrace developmental economics, who are advising Mr Tinubu to continue with the neoliberal capitalist model that has been rejected by the West must stop.

Mr Tinubu’s team needs to help him by exploring homegrown developmental economics models with governance and citizens’ welfare at the centre. Wicked capitalism with cruel policies has not helped any country in the world and Nigeria will not be an exception.

•Audu Liberty Oseni is the Coordinator of MAWA Foundation

NDLEA And Buba Marwa’s burden

BY ABIODUN KOMOLAFE

There was a time in Nigeria when the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) symbolised a dynamic, positive and functional institution. Perilous, and as the war against drug crimes and related offences seemed to be, society and criminals were conscious of the institution’s existence. At the time, everything was going well for the agency but, somewhere along the line there was a lull in its operations. Considering the level of corruption and institutional decay that has been deliberately overlooked in times past, the good news is that vibrant days are back under the present leadership.

Mohammed Buba Marwa was appointed NDLEA Chairman at a critical time in Nigeria’s history. With only two years in office, it is interesting to note that the man at the apex of the institution has proved to Nigerians that he has something to offer. Those who are being mentored must not take it for granted. This is the only way to sustain society.

By all appearances, Marwa has made a positive impact on the NLDEA. The 70-year-old, Kaduna State-born retired military officer has relevant, diverse and better exposure in training, and he has brought the effects of those qualities to bear on the agency and used them to deliver the goals of that office.

If we are looking for an ideal model in public office, Marwa is one sure candidate. As a former governor, he is well connected. So, he has the adequate finesse to run that office. He lives among the people. His experiential knowledge in administration has also helped. He is also level-headed and very quiet. He’s neither lousy nor one of those reckless ‘owambe’ gangs, yet he’s efficient. If Tinubu’s government wants to succeed, these are the kinds of people to use. How we also wish countries where the threats of illicit substances and their purveyors have “crossed borders and destroyed societies and dreams” would allow the Marwas of this world to help them!

As President Bola Tinubu said in a keynote address to the 31st meeting of the Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLAF) recently, Africa will “remain in chains in a diseased and amoral world, as will our children and their children,” until she is able to “dismantle the criminal enterprises that threaten our future and build a brighter tomorrow for all Africans”.

The truth is that the devil has been around for a long time cautious, yet determined. But again, that there’s an escalation of substance abuse in Nigeria has painted a picture of mere creation of a platform for surface scratching. For instance, how on earth will one claim to be fighting a societal menace while conditions that facilitate the same are being knowingly and intentionally watered and nurtured? How can Marwa dry the drug river that has already outburst its channel, with the spring of this dangerous river getting more illegally legitimate with each passing day?

How can demons cast out demons and how can the Marlian emperor deal with his empire? Won’t success always be a steep hill to climb as long as the real lords of narcotics and highly influential cartels in the country continue to beat the long arm of the law to its strategies?

How can Nigeria plough the best course when “the future of our youth, the strength of our institutions, and the well-being of our communities” are architectured by a carnival of uncertainties? Why won’t ours be a world “at the mercy of a threat that knows neither race nor geography, neither gender nor social class” when, year in, year out, we allocate huge budgets to security and defence at the expense of equally critical sectors like Health and Agriculture? How can we enhance the production of goods and services in “a population at war with drugs”?

AS AN INSTITUTION THAT WORKS, THE GOVERNMENT MUST ENSURE THAT NDLEA IS SUSTAINED. IT MUST BE WELL-FUNDED AND GIVEN ALL SUPPORTIVE MECHANISMS TO KEEP IT AFLOAT UNTIL A TRADITION OF PERFECTION IS ESTABLISHED AND SUSTAINED

Right from time, Marwa has been a shrewd, decent and dutiful officer. But he is just a strong person doing well. What happens after his tenure? The more reason those coming behind must watch what they do. A benchmark has already been set. It remains to be shown the aesthetics of management parley among future leaders. That’s what will distinguish the leadership of each institution because every leadership brings something that’s peculiar to it. Yes, that has been our trajectory in Nigeria. Since vigilance is the eternal price of victory, the NDLEA must never lose its guard. The agency is like a glass house. Therefore, caution must not be thrown to the wind because the cost of rectification may be too much to pay for a struggling country like Nigeria. As an institution that works, the government must ensure that NDLEA is sustained. It must be well-funded and given all supportive mechanisms to keep it afloat until a tradition of perfection is established and sustained.

By the way, Naira Marley is a warning, not only to the NDLEA but also others, not to move with the tide. Had the Agency conducted proper due diligence before venturing into the choice of a face, the Marlian malady that’s currently troubling its public perception would have been avoided. If a boss is tough, it’s better for him to wear it as a badge of honour. If the world likes, let it misconstrue the word, ‘tough’ for ‘bad’; a focused leader doesn’t have to be moved because ‘tough’ is what gets the job done.

Whatever floats its boat, if it is necessary that NDLEA must have a face, let him or her be a credible person!

•Komolafe writes from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State

OUTLOOK AS DEBT SERVICING GULPS 106% OF FG’S REVENUE

EDITOR Sam Diala

Notwithstanding the “bold” reforms introduced by the Nigerian government to address the lingering structural challenges impacting on the nation’s fiscal space, emerging facts reveal that the economy is headed for a bleak outlook as the debt burden worsens.

According to the 2022 FGN Budget Implementation report recently published by the Budget Office, the Nigerian government in 2022 spent a total of N5.65 trillion on debt servicing. This represents 106 percent of the total N5.30 trillion in revenue generated within the period.

The total revenue comprised N3.63 trillion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), and N1.67 trillion received from independent revenue sources. This indicates a decline from N11.045 trillion revenue in the 2022 approved budget.

On the other hand, the Federal Government’s total expenditure stood at N14.63 trillion, leading to a deficit of N9.30 trillion. This is also a decline, compared to the N21.82 trillion expenditure in the 2022 approved budget.

A breakdown of the total expenditure showed that statutory transfer accounted for N810.12 billion, while recurrent (non-debt) accounted for N5.03 trillion.

Capital expenditure gulped N3.13 trillion, and N1.24 trillion was spent on capital development funds.

Non-debt recurrent expenditure comprised personnel costs at N3.49 trillion, overhead costs at N371 billion, other service-wide votes at N715 billion, and CRF (consolidated retirement funds) pensions at N387 billion.

Earlier reports showed that the Federal Government deployed 99 percent of its revenues generated within the first half of 2023 on debt servicing. Figures showed that between January and June 2023, the total retained revenue of the Federal Government was N4.06

N45 billion $20 billion

VFD Group Plc Lists on Nigerian Exchange, Commemorates With Closing Gong Ceremony (NGX )

‘Natural Resource-backed Loans Disaster For Africa’

Troubled State of Refineries Points to Underutilised NCDMB

Amajor fallout from the recently concluded 6th international conference organised by the Centre for Gas, Refining and Petrochemicals (CGRP) of the University of Port Harcourt, based on the reports, was that the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) is grossly underutilised.

The participants arrived at this position against the backdrop of experts’ views on the embarrassing state of Nigeria’s resourcegulping but dormant refineries which have remained the Achilles heel of effective governance and widely acknowledged as the cesspool of corruption.

The participants noted that NCDMB has been made to play a subsidiary role in the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, especially concerning the repair and maintenance of the refineries; and that the role of the agency should be upgraded.

Among the experts who harped on this lacuna was Babajide Soyode, a Petroleum Engineer and former staffer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited who was involved in the design and establishment of the refineries. Engr Soyode who was keynote speaker, led the conference to demand for handover of the refineries to private hands and never to import modular refinery units but to rather develop capacity for local content by fabricating the components at home.

Speaking on the sidelines to newsmen, Engr Soyode, who now consults for Dangote Refinery in Lagos, insisted that the rehabilitation going on at the Port Harcourt refinery and gulping billions of dollars would not yield standard grade of petroleum as the facility’s workings have become obsolete. In his view, the refinery ought to have been upgraded and not subjected to rehabilitation.

He gave an example with modular refineries.

His words, “Let the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) not sponsor import of modular refineries except it is fabricated in Nigeria. If we can’t fabricate

them, then we should forget them.

“We may not import it as they are but we can fabricate the major parts. They will produce petrol that meets specification. Right now, modular refineries cannot meet specification. Even the Port Harcourt Refinery cannot produce according to specification.”

He said Nigeria has a problem now. “The Port Harcourt specification and the Lagos (Dangote) specification exist. NCDMB can tell modular refineries to produce to specification. They can make them to fabricate the right modules. They are built in factories and shipped. Let us have a complete refining complex not just crude distillation. The different units can be mentioned and listed for fabrication.”

Engr. Soyode suggested that the NCDMB can sponsor local fabricating entities, emphasizing that the Centre for Gas, Refining and Petroleum (CGRP) can make those new modules.

“They can do the study, it’s a challenge. The NCDMB can sponsor them. The US and others cannot make modular because they are too small, but we can make it. Our young engineers can be grouped to make it. That is why I call it ‘Atrophy of industrial imagination’. Our imagination is dead.”

He recalled that “By the time we were doing Warri Refineries, we were studying the Port Harcourt Refinery. The British media insulted us because their people were exporting the byproducts from us to abroad, but we designed the refinery that would use the by-product. We made our projections.”

The conference documents showed the organisers were in unison calling for urgent and strategic upgrade of NCDMB’s role beyond mere “monitoring”. They believe that the agency has monitored enough and should deploy their capacity towards research and production of refinery equipment.

The conference communiqué read in part, “Government must make deliberate policy to encourage the design and fabrication of oil and gas equipment in Nigeria. This is important because of its impact on the economy, job creation opportunities, as well as

BUSINESS WEEKLY

...Refineries Points to Underutilised NCDMB

optimal and sustainable operation of the oil and gas industry,” it said.

Nigeria was besieged by scavengers

...Debt Servicing Gulps 106% of FG’s Revenue

trillion, while it utilised N4.02 trillion on debt servicing within the same period. The government revenues have remained below expectations as out of the N5.52 trillion targeted for the first six months of the year, about N4.067 trillion was generated, indicating N1.46 trillion shortfall.

The communiqué further stated that the Federal Government should initiate policies that would insist that at least 60 percent of equipment being used should be manufactured in Nigeria. Timelines to this also should be set.

Imperative of intervention

The Senate on July 5, 2023, rejected a motion seeking to investigate the moribund condition of the nation’s refineries despite spending trillions of naira on their maintenance.

This came barely two months after former president Muhammadu Buhari left on May 29, 2023 when he doubled as Minister of Petroleum Resources for eight years.

The motion was moved by Karimi Steve (APC, Kogi West) at the plenary.

In the motion, Mr Steve prayed the Senate to constitute an ad-hoc committee to investigate all contracts awarded for the rehabilitation of all federal governmentowned refineries between 2010 and 2023. He stated that the Nigerian government had spent N11.35 trillion on the renovation of refineries from 2010 till date.

He also said the federal government had spent over N6 trillion between 2010 and 2020 on fuel subsidy due to Nigeria’s low refining capacity, and almost twice the amount have been spent on rehabilitating refineries in Port Harcourt, Kaduna and Warri between the same period under review.

The Kogi senator noted that despite the moribund condition, the operating cost of the federal government refineries between 2010 and 2020 was estimated at N4.8 trillion.

Mr Steve said he was disturbed that the Port Harcourt Refinery Company was still not functioning despite the rehabilitation projects in the facility for seven years between 2013 – 2019 at an estimated cost of over N12 billion.

Giving a breakdown, he said over N28 billion had been spent on revamping the Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited from 2014 to 2019.

He added that over N2 billion had also been spent on the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company in the past ten years, but it remains unproductive.

Pre-Local Content Environment

Nigeria was besieged by scavengers from Europe, America and Asia (India precisely) who posed as oil and gas experts before the emergence of the Local Content Policy which inculcated the desired sanity into the industry. It was common then for wellplaced Nigerians, including military and top government officials, to pose as agents and representatives of overseas manufacturers whose products and services are used in the industry.

According to the Budget Office, of the total N4.067 trillion retained revenue for the period, N604.1 billion was generated from the oil sector, while non-oil revenue was N1.14 trillion. company income tax (CIT) and value added tax (VAT) were N592.68 billion and N195 billion respectively.

Of the N7.76 trillion actual spending for the first half of the year, N4.02 trillion was spent on debt servicing and N2.28 trillion was spent on personnel cost, including pension.

By contrast, only about N475.98 billion had been released for capital expenditure as of June 2023.

The government in the second quarter introduced radical measures to address the deep structural challenges facing the economy which centres on mounting debt amid rapidly dwindling foreign exchange earnings. This has not shown any prospect of adequately addressing the problem. .

The Debt Management Office (DMO) has disclosed that Nigeria’s total public debt hit N87.38 trillion at the end of the second quarter of 2023.

The figure represents an increase of 75.29 per cent or N37.53 trillion compared to N49.85 trillion recorded at the end of March 202

According to DMO, the debt includes the N22.71 trillion Ways and Means Advances of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to the Federal Government.

It said, “Nigeria’s total public debt stock as at June 30, 2023, was N87.38 trillion ($113.42 billion). It comprises the total domestic and external debts of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the thirty-six states, and the Federal Capital Territory.

“The major addition to the Public Debt Stock was the inclusion of the N22.712 trillion securitized FGN’s Ways and Means Advances.”

The report also noted that other additions to the debt stock were new borrowings by the Federal Government and the sub-nationals from local and external sources. It added, “The reforms already introduced by the present administration and those that may emerge from the recommendations of the Fiscal Reform and Tax Policies Committee, are expected to impact debt strategy and improve debt sustainability.”

The DMO had earlier projected that the country’s public debt burden may hit N77 trillion following the National Assembly’s approval of the request by former President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Ways and Means Advances.

The Ways and Means Advances is a loan facility through which the CBN finances the shortfalls in the government’s budget.

The Director-General of the DMO, Patience Oniha, during a public presentation of the 2023 budget organised by the former Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Dr Zainab Ahmed, noted that the debt would be N70 trillion without N5 trillion new borrowing and N2 trillion promissory notes. However, the latest data showed that the current debt stock of N87.38 trillion exceeded the DMO’s projection by N10.38 trillion.

The analysis of the report revealed that Nigeria has a total domestic debt of N54.13 trillion and total external debt of N33.25 trillion.

UBA Grooms Future Professionals Across Africa in Graduate Management Programme

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, yesterday held the maiden edition of its expanded Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) where over 700 graduates were inducted into the UBA tribe after a rigorous 6-month hands-on-work and learning experience.

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria’s (CIBN) accredited programme, adopted from the globally recognised Graduate Training Programme, is aimed at building capacity of fresh graduates who are trained as professionals for accelerated career growth to leadership and key positions.

The graduands, from across its 19 African subsidiaries, completed an intense capacity-building programme, combining learning with on-the-job training experience, garnered while rotating across the bank departments and units.

The Chairman of UBA, Tony O. Elumelu,

who spoke about the importance of prioritising human capital development, commended the robust programme that churned out bright and promising professionals, poised to take the bank to another level.

“It is important to develop platforms for people to grow. We would love to see our future CEO’s from this programme and I hope that the enthusiasm, excitement, and energy I see and feel in this room today translates into the greatness we anticipate so that this young bright professionals can help take UBA to the next level,” Mr Elumelu said “UBA is giving opportunities to young Africans, by addressing unemployment on the continent. Employment of these large numbers of young people at this time explains the role our Bank is playing in engineering growth and development across Africa,” he added. Speaking at the event, Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba said that the

Bank’s future is guaranteed considering the quality of the graduands produced and the commitment shown by participants over the course of the programme

“I have observed, with pride, the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment shown by all participants of the GMAP program and delighted. The role of participants is pivotal in providing the much-needed resource required to make the participants of the programme successful as they kick-start their careers,” Mr Alawuba said.

“In UBA, we give everyone equal opportunity to achieve their dreams, irrespective of age, tribe, gender, and background. the transformation of our dear continent, Africa, is very important to our vision. To achieve this mandate, we need believers, doers, and agents of transformation.

Elumelu

from Europe, America and Asia (India precisely) who posed as oil and gas experts before the emergence of the Local Content Policy which inculcated the desired sanity into the industry

L-R: Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote, with the Managing Director of SPDC and Chairman of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, at the groundbreaking of Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP), Owaza, in Ukwa West Local Government Area of the State on September 30, 2023.

VFD Group Plc Lists on Nigerian Exchange, Commemorates With Closing Gong Ceremony (NGX )

VFD Group Plc, a sector-agnostic proprietary investment company, is pleased to announce its listing on the Main Board of Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), the sustainable Exchange championing Africa's growth. On Friday, October 6, 2023, the official listing was celebrated with a Closing Gong ceremony and a Fact Behind the Listing Presentation, marking a key milestone in the company's history.

The listing of VFD Group’s shares has added over N45 billion to the market capitalization of NGX, further boosting liquidity in the Nigerian capital market and providing opportunities for wealth creation.

VFD Group is a proprietary investment company that focuses on building positive and socially conscious ecosystems by aggregating potentially viable businesses to create innovative products and solutions accessible to the everyday Nigerian citizen and entrepreneur. This listing on NGX is a strategic move to increase VFD Group’s visibility, enhance its access to capital, and improve its liquidity, ultimately benefiting its valued investors and stakeholders.

Olatunde Busari SAN, Chairman of VFD Group, stated proudly, "We are excited to join the distinguished ranks of companies listed on the Exchange, and we are confident that this step will provide us with the resources we need to continue our growth trajectory and serve our shareholders even better."

Nonso Okpala, Group Managing Director/CEO of VFD Group Plc, expressed his excitement about the listing, saying, "This is a momentous occasion for VFD Group. Our journey from a boutique investment firm to a publicly traded company on the Nigerian Exchange reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team. We are excited about this new chapter and the opportunities it brings to further strengthen our market position."

"We will continue to work toward our strategic goal of creating Africa's first diverse business ecosystem. When compared to where we started, what we set out to achieve, and economic realities, the Group's performance has been outstanding on all fronts. Our focus on business expansion has yielded results, particularly in sectors other than financial services, and we have significantly increased our balance sheet," he continued.

Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga, Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc stated, “We must recognize the unwavering commitment of the Board and Management of VFD Group in making this listing a reality, as well as the pivotal roles played by all the professional parties involved in the transaction. Securing a listing on the NGX Main Board entails a steadfast commitment to elevated standards of disclosure and corporate governance. This significant listing heralds a fresh chapter for VFD Group plc to leverage NGX’s valueadded services and capital market products to fulfill its strategic objectives.”

Temi Popoola, CEO, NGX, stated, “We extend a warm welcome to VFD Group as it joins our prestigious market. The decision to list on NGX not only promises to augment VFD Group's liquidity but also strategically positions it to attract investments from the global arena. Additionally, this move is poised to elevate the organization's market value whilst further advancing transparency and corporate accountability.

“Our marketplace is a highly reputable platform for raising capital and facilitating sustainable growth for national development. As the preferred listing platform in the region, we are dedicated to collaborating with companies at different growth stages to explore diverse capital market opportunities that align with their business goals.”

‘Natural Resource-backed Loans Disaster For Africa’

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has strongly supported a call by the African Development Bank Group urging countries in Africa to stop borrowing loans backed by their natural resources.

The IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva met Thursday with the African Development Bank Group President, Akinwumi Adesina, in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire. It is the first time an IMF head has visited the bank’s headquarters since its establishment in 1964.

Welcoming Ms Georgieva, Mr Adesina said, “The natural resource-backed loans are non-transparent, expensive and make debt resolution difficult.” He warned that if the trend continues, “it will be a disaster for Africa.”

Ms Georgieva said the Fund’s senior management team will “carry out a thorough assessment. We will come with a strong voice to tell countries not to create avenues for predatory and enslaving loans.”

She said the issue would also be discussed at the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable comprised of bilateral creditors, private creditors and borrowing countries. The roundtable is co-chaired by the IMF, World Bank and the presidency of the G20. The African Union joined the G20 in September as a permanent member. Ms Georgieva is on her way to Marrakech, Morocco, for the World Bank Group and IMF Annual meetings which last held in Africa 50 years ago.

The IMF chief said she is visiting Africa at a time when the continent holds much promise for more dynamic growth in the world.

“We often focus on the challenges that the continent is facing because it is here the impact of climate change is much more severe, where macro-economic and financial instability and debt are amplified.”

“But we want to focus on opportunities in Africa for the simple fact that the capital is in the North and a young population is in the South, primarily here in Africa. Unless we build a bridge for capital to flow to where it is needed most, it could lead to a bigger problem.”

Mr Adesina praised bold efforts by the IMF chief and the US Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, to shore up the global economy by allocating $650 billion in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs).

Africa, with a population of more than 1.2 billion, received about $33 billion of SDRs, representing only 5 per cent of the total allocation, the smallest portion among the different regions of the world.

The African Development Bank continues to lead conversations and develop models allowing SDRs to be rechanneled through multilateral development banks. MDBs can leverage such resources three to four times their original values.

Mr Adesina thanked the IMF for working with the African Development Bank’s team on an initiative that could allow SDRs to be channelled through MDBs.

“Together with the Inter-American Development Bank, we developed a model that meets the IMF’s reserve asset status. If you channel $5 billion through the Bank, we will use our leveraging power and that could easily become $20 billion of new financing for Africa,” said Mr Adesina.

Is The Internet a Location For Business Growth?

BY TIMI OLUBIYI

Businesses in Africa, large, small, and micro, continue to bear the brunt of inflation, high energy costs (diesel and electricity), and, more broadly, global economic turbulence, particularly the crisis in Ukraine and Russia which has snowballed into a slew of challenges that increasingly threaten the survival of many enterprises across all sectors on the continent.

Attention to businesses, particularly small businesses, continues to be heightened because of the increasingly difficult times and widespread uncertainty in many countries of Africa due to post-pandemic consequences. Therefore, more and more businesses are looking for ways to fight back against the harsh economy and hostile environments.

One of the ways widely noticed across Africa in recent times, based on the author's observation, is the continual change of business location by operators and business managers to reduce the cost of doing business, in particular for rent reduction.

Lately, it has been observed that more businesses with headquarters and main base of operations or offices in choice locations, where they have established connections and network with customers, continue to relocate to neighbouring states and remote areas. This trend has been increasing in all sectors and industries postpandemic. The probing question is why?

According to a survey conducted in Lagos State, Nigeria's economic capital, the most common reason given by many business operators why relocation of businesses is receiving high consideration, was that it is a way to minimise the high rising cost of doing business and remaining in business seems to be a top business priority for many of them.

The view is that location or relocation factor in a business should be more on overall business gains, that is to, maximise income, access to competent workforce, be closer to customers and business resources amongst others. Many of them are not aware that these key variables adequately and effectively give a competitive advantage to businesses.

Location or relocation should not just be determined based cost of doing business. It can be concluded that location decisions at this time are typically driven by financial factors.

However, such linear decisions can have serious consequences on non-financial factors such as customer retention, sales or market share growth, proximity to resources, or more broadly, the long-term sustainability of the businesses.

Let the truth be told, the choice of a business location is an economic decision and should only be considered strategically with thorough evaluation rather than just for maintaining low rent, that is reducing operating costs

or on mere sentiments. Because such sharp decisions can influence the conditions in which the business activity is subsequently conducted. If a business selects the wrong location, it may have an adverse effect on access to customers, competent workers, good transportation, access to resources, and so on. Consequently, it should be done with caution and strategically because location plays a significant role in overall business success.

The criteria dictating the location of businesses in the past were, for example, access to raw materials, low costs of the labour force and production means, costs of transport or benefits from government amongst others.

But presently, in most city capitals across Africa what drives business location is the cost of doing business. Whereas globalization and technology have been the most important factors in industrialised countries, where remote work and digital adoption have been on the rise.

A location strategy is especially critical now because where a business is set up can have a significant impact on its success; a poor choice can jeopardise potential income, dissuade existing customers, increase delivery costs, and compromise future business growth and related supporting industries.

When examining the role of location, it suffices to mention that some start-ups and small businesses may just require a website and a presence on the Internet. That can offer better proximity to customers than a physical location where the cost of running the business is high. For businesses in retail, traditional stores may be complemented with technology and an online presence, reducing the number of outlets or branches.

The new normal has clearly demonstrated that technology and digital adoption can provide a competitive advantage while also lowering the cost of doing business, particularly the cost of running a business activity (rent, electricity, remuneration, local taxes and fees). The COVID-19 crisis has brought rapid change in the way businesses in all sectors and regions conduct their operations.

Largely, the COVID-19 crisis has removed the technology barrier in business and the introduction of many applications to improve operations and globalisation is now available. Adopting digitization and the use of technology to improve customer and supply-chain interactions is increasing globally. Some businesses have even restrategized and moved part of their business operations online, implementing more than 60% of their business operations on the Internet. This is also a location for a business to stay competitive and reduce the cost of doing business in a hostile environment, not just physical change or relocation.

Many businesses are currently struggling as a result of their adherence to the old-fashioned brick-and-mortar business model, even though the new normal has been established through the effective use of technology and digital channels.

The important thing to note is that new strategies, business models, and practices are required for businesses to stay profitable and stem the tide of high inflation, harsh environmental conditions, and weak consumer spending. Technology's strategic importance has to be recognised in business dealings going forward and as a critical component of the business.

It can provide a source of business cost efficiencies and also global accessibility. Research has shown that the location of a business is one of its most important factors for success, and online is also a location.

Perhaps, across sectors, businesses may need to refocus their offerings, fill the technology gaps by adopting digital channels, increase their online presence and develop digital products more. This may just be the strategic location businesses need to consider at this time.

If a business selects a wrong location, it may have an adverse effect on access to customers, competent workers, good transportation, access to resources, and so on

French Embassy Launches Lagos x Paris Fashion, Design Accelerator Runsewe Hails

‘Remarkable’ Adejuwon’s

Oak

The French Embassy in Nigeria has announced the public launch of Lagos x Paris Fashion and Design Accelerator, a nine-month programme (from October 2023 to June 2024) aimed towards supporting 10 high-potential Nigerian brands within the fashion and design ecosystem. The Accelerator emphasises close mentorship, creativity, reinforcement of business literacy and guidance for emerging Nigerian creatives and their teams in navigating the French and global fashion industry.

Through this platform, the French Embassy in Nigeria aims at celebrating Nigerian creativity and cultural preservation initiatives, sustainable practices and crosscultural collaborations, while giving the tools and skills for creatives to build long- lasting and incremental financial growth for their company.

The aim of this programme is not only to strengthen the entrepreneurial skills of 10 Nigerian brands, but also to support their export opportunities to France by participating in key events. The programme has been thought in collaboration with several remarkable fashion and design stakeholders and its curriculum, which combines group and individual training, mentoring and master classes (over 120 hours per brand), has been defined in conjunction with renowned French and African experts and the Nigerian incubator for creative industry, CCHUB. However, the laureate brands are considered in their singularity with a tailored accompaniment.

The Accelerator will also close off with professional travels to Paris, designed to immerse the selected brands in the world capital of fashion via unique access to key industry players and events.

The Accelerator will comprise of physical tailored 1 on 1 courses on a broad range of subjects, with actual deliverables and tools; monthly mentorship sessions; high-level masterclasses; and direct and indirect grants. However, others are investment readiness modules with pitching sessions to investors as well as support to participate in a French prescriptive event in 2024.

The 10 brands selected for this 2023-2024 cohort, amongst more than 120 applications are for fashion: Lagos Space Programme, TJWHO Design, Obida, Eki Kere, ELEXIAY and WAF – Wafflesandcream Limited. For Accessories: Malika and Ethnic Africa. For Design: Omi Collective et Aga Design and Culture Limited.

The Lagos x Paris Fashion and Design Accelerator s part of a global programme announced by the French President, Emmanuel Macron in February 2023, called “Création Africa”. This programme’s aim is to increase support and resources to the French diplomatic network and its action toward the global ecosystem of creative and cultural industries.

The official launch of this initiative, which will take place in in Paris with a tremendous event to be held from October 6 to 8, 2023 with dozens of talents from the worlds of animation, video games and cinema being showcased. A strong Nigerian delegation will attend.

As of such, the Embassy of France in Nigeria operates since June 2023 a €1.2 million fund to support entrepreneurs in the Nigerian cultural and creative industries in the fields of design, fashion, video games, audiovisuals and dance. The Lagos x Paris Fashion and Design Accelerator is financed via this grant.

Jubilee

The Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, has hailed the achievements of a “remarkable man,” and one of the Nigeria’s pioneer tourism administrators, Dr Franklin John Adejuwon, who celebrated his 80th birthday anniversary last Wednesday.

The event which held in Lagos gathered a host of top industry operators both from the public and private sectors of the economy to pay homage to the man who guided the country’s tourism sector, often sacrificing himself as a bridge and mediator in the comity of global tourism operators.

Dr Adejuwon is generally credited with crafting the first National Tourism Masterplan for the country which was officially launched in 2006 by the then Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr Adetokunbo Kayode SAN, in Abuja.

A former Director of Research and Planning, and later Chief Executive of the defunct Nigeria Tourist Board (NTB), as well as, a one-time Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Tourism in the 80s, Dr Adejuwon has also had a stint at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources as Minister of State.

He was the country’s Consultant and Member of the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). He was a Member and later Chairman of the Technical Committee for Programmes and Coordination (TCPC) of the General Assembly of the UNWTO.

He was born incidentally on September 27, 1943 and holds the first Tourism PhD degree in Nigeria.

In his speech at the birthday celebrations, Director General of the NCAC, Otunba Runsewe who hailed the celebrant as a ‘pillar of tourism,’ said the occasion is better described as Pa Adejuwon’s ‘Oak Jubilee.’

Runsewe, who described himself as one Pa Adejuwon’s protégés and has followed the imprints of his gigantic strides, stated that it was an honour for him to deliver the felicitation encomium, just as he expressed a deep gratitude for the profound impact the celebrant has had on his life, including ‘those of countless others and indeed the growth and development of our great country Nigeria, especially in the Tourism Sector.’

Continuing, Runsewe celebrated Pa Adejuwon for his ‘indomitable spirit,’ which, according to him, used to his advantage as ‘he championed the cause of promoting Nigeria's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world.’

“Through his tireless efforts, he not only succeeded in putting Nigeria on the global tourism map, but also inspired a generation of young professionals to follow in his footsteps.

“Under his leadership, the Nigerian Tourism Industry flourished. He spearheaded numerous initiatives to develop infrastructure, preserve historical sites, and promote sustainable tourism practices. His strategic partnerships with international organizations created opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity building. The tourism sector experienced unprecedented growth, attracting visitors from around the world and generating employment opportunities for countless Nigerians.

STORIES BY JANEFRANCES CHIBUZOR

SHOTS OF THE WEEK

Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG) Africa, Alero AyidaOtobo; Founder of SPPG Africa/former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili; former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke Jnr and the Moderator, Ler Jonathan-Ichaver, during SPPG’s Africa Conference and SPPG Class of 2023 graduation ceremony, in Abuja on October 5, 2023.

L-R: Regional Chair, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Europe, Middle East, South America and Africa (EMESA), Mr. Matthias Tauber; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Managing Director and Partner, System Leader, Africa System, BCG, Ms. Lisa Ivers and Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Mosopefoluwa George, during a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Marina on October 4, 2023.

L-R: Managing Editor, Northern Region, The Nation Newspaper, Yusuf Alli; General Manager, Corporate Communications/Zonal Coordination, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Angela Okoro; Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Simbi Wabote and the Guest Lecturer/ Executive Vice Chairman of Leadership Newspaper, Azu Ishiekwene, during the Executive Secretary’s 2023 Breakfast Meeting with Editors of Newspapers and Directors of Broadcast Stations, in Abuja on October 4, 2023.

L-R: MTN MIP Fellow, Elizabeth Musa; Programme Head, African Governance and Diplomacy, South African a Institute of International Affairs, Steven Gruzd; Senior Manager, External Relations, MTN Nigeria, Funso Aina; Researcher, African Governance and Diplomacy Programme, South African Institute of International Affairs, Isabel Bosman and MTN MIP 2 Fellow, Anuoluwapo Odubanjo, during MTN MIP 2 Fellows visit to the South African IIA in Johannesburg, South Africa on September 19, 2023.

L-R: Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Mr Adekunle Bello; Past President, Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEA), Mrs Nkechi Isigwe; former President of APWEA, Mrs Idiat Amusu and the Chairman of APWEA, Lagos Chapter, Mrs Atinuke Wuraola, during a public lecture on Reverse Mentoring for Female Engineers Elders on new trend to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons organised by APWEA in Lagos on October 4, 2023.

L-R: Deputy President Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Gabriel Idahosa; Past President, LCCI, Hon. Toki Mabogunje; President LCCI, Chairman of the occasion, Michael Olawale-Cole; Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi; representative of Chief of Defence Staff, Major General E V Onumajuru; Past President, LCCI, Mrs. Onikepo Akande and other security agencies' representatives, during the 2023 LCCI Security Meets Business Dialogue Series, held in Lagos on September 27, 2023.

Akinwunmi Ambode Gets a Seat in GAC

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

EDITOR Ivory Ukonu

Following his reconciliation with both Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State governor and his godfather, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, after their messy fallout, Akinwunmi Ambode, the former Lagos governor has not only found a pride of place in the heart of the man who made him governor and kicked him out when he derailed, he has also now been offered a seat in the Council of the Governors’ Advisory Council, GAC, the highest decisionmaking body of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State.

Offering Amode a seat in the GAC is another way to make him relevant politically and to

Continues on page 41

TRIBUNAL DASHES RUKAYAT SHITTU’S HOPE

When she was elected as a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly in March to represent Owode-Onire constituency of Asa Local Government area of the state, 26-year-old Rukayat Shittu, the youngest politician ever to occupy such an elective position in Kwara State and the

Continues on page 41

I’m Passionate About Making People Feel Better About Themselves – Bimbo Ige

Bimbo Ige runs Celeb Laser and Aesthetic Clinic through which she has helped many, both men and women, to regain their self-confidence. In this interview with IVORY UKONU, she talks about some of the procedures she offers, their pros and cons, the craze about body enhancement and other issues.

Didyou always want to be a medical aesthetician?

No. I chose to study radiography at the university, although my parents wanted me to become a medical doctor. I mean how many medical doctors can one have in a family? My two sisters are more into the psychiatry side of medicine and the other is a gynaecologist. I saw how uninteresting their lives were and decided to follow my mother’s footsteps. She studied radiography, too. I was very much interested in medical machinery. When I was in London I became interested in lasers and I took a course in it. It was easy making that transition. I started with laser teeth whitening. Now there are 10 procedures that I do under the laser category.

What are the other procedures under the laser category that you do?

Apart from laser teeth whitening, there is laser hair removal, laser tattoo removal, laser pigmentation removal, laser carbon facials, etc.

What prompted the interest in laser treatment?

I had issues with my teeth. I wanted them really white. I spoke to my dentist who encouraged me to train in laser teeth whitening since I was already in the medical field and so I trained for it. That was how I began my practice with laser teeth whitening, which I did for five years before adding other procedures. For instance, I have a dental department where scaling, polishing and fillings are done in addition to teeth whitening. There is the intravenous therapy section aka IV, where we do Glutathione, B12 etc. infusions. Then there is a facial room where we go beyond normal facials and do medical facials. Then there is a department where I do semi-permanent makeup, stretch mark removal and skin tag removal. Then there is a department where we do facial fillers, facial Botox, armpit Botox, facial threading, Platelet-rich plasma, aka PRP. I am planning to go for a course in London on how to inject Botox for the head for those with constant headaches; and in the back, for those with constant aches or straightning the back.

Didn’t you learn this when you learnt about Botox initially?

The industry I operate in keeps advancing and I have to travel every year to make sure that I am trained in order to keep up with the trends. Otherwise, I would be left behind and there would be nothing to do anymore.

What exactly is platelet rich plasma?

It is a procedure where you take your own blood and put it in a centrifuge machine to separate your blood to get a nice plasma golden liquid and then inject it back into the skin. PRP is good for people that suffer hair loss. It is the next best thing to surgery basically. It can be used to treat stretch marks. After filtering your blood, we inject it into the area that has stretch marks superficially. We also use it for breast lift, to encourage multiplication of fat cells in that area.

Where exactly do you get all your training?

In the United Kingdom and America

How many certifications do you have?

I have about 82 certifications. This industry requires a lot of training and retraining. From Bachelor and Master’s degrees to diplomas and basic certificates. I got most of my certifications from the United Kingdom, but when I returned to Nigeria, the Ministry of Health made me requalify in order to practise in Nigeria. I got a professional diploma in cosmetics and dermatology from Medical Aesthetics Clinic and Wellness Limited in Lagos.

How long have you been a medical aesthetician?

I have been in this industry for 10 years.

A few years ago, people were sceptical about getting fillers and Botox done here in Nigeria. Today, Lagos specifically, has Botox and dermal filler shops in almost every street corner, literaly. What is responsible for this?

Nigerians look up to people abroad a lot and like to copy what they do. With Botox and Dermal fillers, Nigerians rose to the occasion. But this rise in the number of practices can be attributed to the period when the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the world. Many people couldn’t travel outside the country and they had to search for Nigerian practitioners and injectors to perform these procedures for them. Today, people don’t have to travel out to get procedures done on their body, they can get whatever they want done here.

For those who may not know, what is Dermal filler and Botox?

As one ages, one’s body starts to lose collagen, an important substance that exists all over the body, including the skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues. Decreased amounts of collagen in the skin causes skin laxity and loss of volume. Skin becomes thinner, loses its elasticity and starts to sag. Dermal fillers come to the rescue. They are injections that plump up wrinkles and smooth the lines on your face. They are injected in the areas around the eyes, mouth and nose and the results are right away. They can last several months or years. Botox, on the other hand, is an injection or shots that use a toxin to prevent a muscle from moving for a limited time. These shots are often used to smooth wrinkles on the face. They're also used to treat neck spasms, sweating, overactive bladder, lazy eye and other medical conditions. The medicine in Botox injections is made from the same toxin that causes a type of food poisoning called botulism. Ironically, the bacteria toxins are not harmful if used correctly. Depending on the problem being treated, the effect may generally last three to four months. These treatments are non-invasive and require little recovery time. However, I have since found out that fillers made in the UK tend to evaporate faster in hot conditions, so I stopped using them and started using fillers made in Dubai or America. The weather is hotter in these countries than in the UK and so these fillers last longer here. So besides all the training I do abroad, I still have to do my research

on what works best for African skin, particularly in Nigeria. Every single thing I bring to Nigeria, I use on myself, just to make sure that it works on our skin. So the Dermal fillers I use will last for about 18 months and the products I use for Botox, about eight months. Last year, I went to do a new training on stretch marks called Camouflage. It camouflages stretch marks. I was the only black person in that class and of course all the training was done bearing their own skin type in mind. So I asked how that training can be applied to damaged skin, particularly Nigerian skin because most Nigerians bleach their skin and it becomes thin in the process. I asked because if the machines built for the training I went for are used on a bleached skin, the person will have hyperpigmentation. And the trainer said to use hydroquinone, the very same ingredient used in bleaching creams that caused the stretch marks and the thinning of the skin in the first place. Now, this is where we have to do our own research to know what suits our skin type and pigmentation.

Are there side effects with Botox and Dermal fillers?

Serious complications are rare and some of these side effects are only temporary. Dermal fillers only contain one ingredient and that is hyaluronic acid. Our body produces it, there is nothing bad about

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

it, it is just clear liquid like water and you put that back in your skin to rejuvenate it. I use fillers on myself but no one can tell I have used fillers or modified anything on my face because I try to keep things natural which is what fillers do. It alters your appearance a bit, but does not change it totally. However, some people use it to change their entire appearance and it isn’t supposed to be so. I use the barest amount of fillers for clients and tell them to go home and get used to the little alteration. If they are not happy with the result after about a week, then they can come back for more. I would rather do a bit more than overdo it and everyone ends up not recognising you anymore.

Botox on the other hand is one of the safest procedures you can ever do. As long as the person administering it is a well-trained injector and you know all the muscles in the face and have been practicing for at least two or three years, then there should be no issue at all. There are parts of the face that you cannot inject. If you make a mistake and inject those parts, that is when there will be side effects

So fillers can be used to enhance the bum if one doesn’t want to go under the knife. Can it be used to enhance the breasts?

Some people do it, but I don’t because the breast area is very sensitive.

Stretch marks occur naturally on the body. What is this craze to get rid of them?

Not all stretch marks are natural. Some are caused by the use of bleaching creams which contain harmful ingredients. Nowadays a lot of people are parading themselves as sellers of natural skin brighteners, selling what they call organic cream. But in actual fact, these so-called organic creams contain steroids. These people buy tube creams that clearly state not to be used for more than 14 days and they add these creams in their products which have no instructions on how to use or ingredient list and sell them to Nigerians. So when you continue to use these creams, it thins out the skin and with continuous usage, the skin will tear and that is the fat, big stretch marks you see on people’s skin. Unfortunately, these kinds of stretch marks cannot be cured by cream or soap.

The question now is, why do people buy these organic creams?

That is another subject entirely.

Do you advise your clients to stop using these organic creams?

Yes, I do, but most of them don’t listen. So I now tell them that if they must use these creams, they should only use it at night. If they are used during the day, the sun will react with the cream on their skin and they will end up with sunburn.

With the number of women walking around with Brazilian Bottom Lift procedure, BBL on the increase, do you plan to add surgery to the list of procedures you offer and get the required training?

No. Everything I do is non-surgical and what I offer is for those who are too frightened to go under the knife.

What do you think about the craze for BBL?

It has been severely abused. Everywhere you turn, someone has done a BBL. One of my friends who does it in his clinic says he is fully booked till the end of the year.

What is the most difficult thing about being a medical aesthetician?

Power. Everything we do relies on power. You can’t afford to have power go off in your practice, if you are a medical aesthetician. First your clientele will just look at you like you do not know what you are doing. Also, God forbid that power goes off while you are administering a procedure on a client and using a machine that requires light to power it. With the way power keeps going off and on or fluctuating, it can damage my machines which are very expensive to procure or service. I can’t always send my machines abroad for servicing.

Are you saying there are no companies here in Nigeria that can service your machines?

There is none. What I do is to buy all my machines from either the UK or Germany. That way, I have 24-hour support unlike China-made machines that have no support and require you to replace them if they get spoiled. So, I prefer to spend more money on purchasing my machines and call for support if there are issues, then they can train our machine guy here in Nigeria. However, there is a new company opening now in Lagos that seems to be doing that.

Not all stretch marks are natural. Some are caused by the use of bleaching creams which contain harmful ingredients. Nowadays a lot of people are parading themselves as sellers of natural skin brighteners, selling what they call organic cream. But in actual fact, these socalled organic creams contain steroids. These people buy tube creams that clearly state not to be used for more than 14 days and they add these creams in their products which have no instructions on how to use or ingredient list and sell them to Nigerians. So when you continue to use these creams, it thins out the skin and with continuous usage, the skin will tear and that is the fat, big stretch marks you see on people’s skin. Unfortunately, these kinds of stretch marks cannot be cured by cream or soap

What are the other challenges?

Training manpower. I do this almost every day, on customer relationships, administering certain procedures. But there are some things I still do not allow my staff to do, such as administering Dermal Fillers or Botox. I do them myself. I can’t train my staff

Is there a school where one can learn about fillers, Botox and PRP in Nigeria?

None is doing advanced training. It would be nice if we could have that. It would save me a lot of money travelling all the time. But Clinique Aesthetics and Laserderm Aesthetics Clinic both do some kind of training.

Is there a body that regulates what you do?

Yes, there is a body called Association of Practitioners of Spa and Medical Aesthetics of Nigeria, APSMAN, and I am the vice president of the association. We have been in existence for eight years now. The Ministry of Health sanctions what we do.

More men are becoming more aware of their appearance. What is your take on this?

Oh, men now like to look good. I was impressed when I returned to Nigeria and set up my teeth whitening practice. Most of my clients were men. Apparently they finally found what they could do to look good for their

What would you say has been your greatest achievement since you became a medical aesthetician?

A lot, but I will consider the fact that I started out doing just one procedure for a long time and grew to have six different departments where I carry out different enhancement procedures.

What do you think must have shaped you to be who you are today?

I like to help people. I like to put people first ahead of my own needs. I like to make people’s lives better. So going into this field, I see a lot of people who have lost their self-confidence over one body part they are unhappy about. They come to me crying for help and I am always here to help them get better. I do free consultation and sometimes I spend as much as two hours with one client and just allow them to unburden their grief. I am passionate about making people feel better about themselves.

How do you unwind when you are not working?

I work. I am constantly researching on issues that have to do with the industry I operate in and so I do that at night after the close of official working hours.

&SOCIETY

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

VICTOR, FUNKE OSIBODU THROW LAVISH WEDDING FOR SON

Penultimate week, businessman and boss of Vigeo Holdings LTD, Victor Osibodu, had cause to celebrate after the drama that characterised the forceful takeover of Benin Electricity Distribution Company last year, where his wife, Funke, is the managing director. The corporate couple threw a befitting wedding party for their son, Tolu when he tied the knot with his lover, Joana Kichelle Mogo, at the Harbour Point Event Centre in Lagos and hired foremost music band, Shugaband to serenade their guests. Some of the guests who honoured the Osibodus include the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, construction mogul, Sir Olu Okeowo, former Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, boss of Sophisticat, Lanre Ogunlesi and Bimbo Ashiru, the Chairman Odua Investment Company to mention but a few. Tolu is the Lead Product Manager in Citiserve Limited, a sister company in his father's

conglomerate. He had previously worked with Iroko Partners Limited and Standard Chartered Bank. His bride, Joana is a Business System Specialist at WorQulture, a business structuring and design firm that specialises in designing and implementing business processes, performance management tools and learning resources to empower employees to deliver optimum value.

Bolanle Okusanya Marks 10th Anniversary of Father And Brother’s Deaths

Bolanle Okusanya Feyita, the first daughter of foremost late undertaker, Tunji Okusanya, has remembered her late father and brother, 10 years after they passed on.

Tunji Okusanya and his son, Tunji Jr, lost their lives in October 2013 at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) after suffering injuries sustained from the Lagos Cargo plane crash which occurred on the same day. They were on board the cargo plane transporting the corpse of a former Governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Agagu to Akure for a lying-in-state and burial.

The late Okusanya was the boss of popular funeral service home,

Continued from page 38

Tribunal Dashes Rukayat Shittu’s Hope

youngest lawmaker in Nigeria, was beside herself with joy.

Magbamawo Industrial Company, otherwise known as MIC Casket. The Okusanya-led M.I.C undertakers were one of the biggest funeral service companies in Nigeria. The company provided services for some of the biggest names in the country and a number of celebrities.

After the sad event, Bolanle who was a renowned make-up artist based in London, returned to Nigeria to continue the legacies of her late father and brother whom the father was grooming to carry on with the business after his retirement.

Bolanle set up her business with a new name, LTJ which is the short form of her surname, Olatunji to keep their memories alive. She celebrated their tenth anniversary with a tribute on her social media page enumerating the 10 things she learnt from them.

HOW SEGUN AWOLOWO CELEBRATED 60TH BIRTHDAY

Last weekend, Olusegun Awolowo joined the sexagenarian club. A socialite par excellence, Awolowo, who is a former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, now the President of the National Trade Promotion Organisation from ECOWAS member States, shocked many of his high-profile friends and associates with his decision not to host them to a grand birthday party. In a letter he wrote to his friends, Awolowo said that while previous birthdays were typically marked by exuberant parties in the quintessential Lagos lifestyle he was raised in, this particular milestone carried a distinct kind of celebration, one firmly anchored in the profound wellspring of gratitude and introspection. For this reason, he asked them to join him in prayers for attaining the milestone. On the said day, his close friends like AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State; Bimbo Ashiru, chairman Odua Investment Company; Florence Ita-Giwa, Jide Coker etc. all joined him for a private church service at the Church of the nativity, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi. He later hosted them to a lavish breakfast at his Ikoyi residence. The milestone was also another opportunity for him to announce his soon to be unveiled autobiography titled, 'Judged by a Surname.'

Shittu defeated older and more experienced candidates, even an incumbent, to clinch the seat. She got the chance to contest after the Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq passed a bill in 2021 stipulating that any local government area with two constituencies is mandated to have one man and one woman as its representatives. She was able to purchase the nomination form after the cost was reduced to N500,000 from N1 million. The money was generated through the efforts of her family, friends and associates, as well as from her personal savings. She contested against four candidates in her party’s primary election, which was not free and fair in her constituency as thugs invaded the place to disrupt the process. She later emerged as a consensus candidate on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC, after a re-run. Unfortunately, now, Shittu’s joy has been cut short as the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ilorin has declared the election she emerged winner, inconclusive

and ordered a rerun in some polling units. The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Abdullahi Yinusa Magaji, had filed a petition challenging her victory at the tribunal. Justice Ademola Enikuomehin, a member of the three-man tribunal who delivered the lead judgment, ordered a rerun in five polling units of the constituency within 90 days. Hopefully, whatever impact Shittu has made within the past three months will translate positively for her at the polls. Shittu’s political journey started when she was an undergrauate. In 2019, she emerged the first female Senate President of the congress of the National Open University which covers over 85 study campuses across the federation. She also represented her study centre at the national level. She was a former head of news department of an online publication, 'Just Event' and a member of a leading prodemocracy group called 'Kwara Must Change.' She is an advocate of girl child's rights. During her undergraduate days, she combined studies and volunteering at different political organisations.

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Akinwunmi Ambode Gets a Seat in GAC

assure him that bygones are bygones. The first sign that all is now well among the trio was when SanwoOlu honoured the former governor with his presence on the occasion of his 60th birthday celebration earlier this year. Similarly, Ambode made a rare appearance at the state dinner held in honour Tinubu in Lagos shortly after he became president.

At the twilight of Ambode's only tenure as governor and prior to the 2019 governorship election , he clashed with Sanwo-Olu

when he realised that he would not get Tinubu’s support and that of APC stakeholders in the state for a second term. He was accused of several atrocities and despite trying to win over the voters in the state by vilifying Sanwo-Olu, he lost out eventually.

THE WILL recalls that about a year ago, a former Deputy Governor of the state, Femi Pedro, who also fell out with Tinubu, was forgiven his sins and given a seat in the GAC after a long absence from the corridors of power.

Awolowo

The Osibodus

The Okusanyas

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

QUEEN TEMITOPE OGUNWUSI BAGS HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREE

Queen Temitope Morenike EnitanOgunwusi, one of the six wives of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has received an honorary doctorate in Science (Humanities) from Bradley University, USA.

The recognition is a testament to her commitment to ending poverty, promoting social justice, and empowering African communities and creating lasting change through her Hope Alive Initiative, a charity she set up with her husband to provide amenities to underserved communities.

A cerebral queen, she holds a diploma in Linguistics and Data Processing from the University of Lagos and a bachelor's degree in business administration from the same university.

Queen Temitope is a certified alumnus of several

universities, including the University of Oxford, United Kingdom; INSEAD Business School, Fontainebleau, France; University of Cambridge, Judge Business School, United Kingdom; and Harvard Kennedy School of Government in the United States. She has vast experience working in both the public and private sectors. She has also worked in the media as was the anchor and host of the Lagos State Ministry of Health Public Health Advocacy Program, ‘Health-Wise’ which was on air for four years. During the Babatunde Fashola administration, she was the Personal Assistant to the late Secretary to the State Government, Princess Aderenle Adeniran-Ogunsanya. A princess from Ijebuland, she was formerly married before she went separate ways with her husband.

Siju Iluyomade Celebrates Mum at 90

Siju Iluyomade, wife of Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, the senior pastor of Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David parish recently celebrated her mum, Mrs Henrietta Adejumo when she joined the nonagenarian club. The flamboyant preacher's wife ensured she left no stone unturned to give her mother a befitting birthday party. The day started out with a thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, where the 90-year-old, joined by family and friends thanked God for sparing her life. Later in the day, Mrs Iluyomade turned into the perfect hostess. Dressed in a flowing flowery dress and exquisitely put together, many almost mistook her for the celebrant because of how ravishing she looked. She rented the hall of Eko Hotel and Suites for the lavish birthday party, hired three masters of ceremony in the persons of Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome aka Ali Baba, Abimbola Adeyemi aka MC Ajele and Ik Osakioduwa to steer proceedings at the party.

Segun Awolowo Fetes High Society at Daughter's Wedding

To capture guests in their individual elements, celebrity photographer, Kelechi Amadi-Obi transformed a section of the party venue for this purpose using his mobile studio. A cortorie of musicians ranging from Abolaji Banjoko aka Beejay Sax to

Veentage Band to gospel singers, Yinka Alaseyori and Mike Abdul serenaded guests from their repertoire of songs. The event reached its climax with a performance from the king of world beats, King Sunny Ade. Spirit-filled, Mrs Iluyomade who is renowned for her soigné and love for dripping jewelries and accessories that leaves people in awe, besides co-pastoring with her husband, runs Arise Women, a faith-based NonGovernmental Organisation committed to accelerating nationbuilding through the empowerment of women in the society. Through this platform, Siju has helped thousands of women at the grassroots to access free medical care and to educate them on the promotion of good health. Long known to have nurtured charitable hopes, Siju institutionalized Handmaidens Women In Leadership Series, HWILs, to build intentional leaders.

Kuti

SEUN KUTI WALKS THE RUNWAY AT PARIS FASHION WEEK

Afrobeat musician, Seun Aniklapo-Kuti, recently showed that there are other things he is good at doing beside singing and blowing the saxophone. He recently strutted the runway for French fashion house, Casablanca, at the Paris Fashion Week. The singer modelled Casablanca’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection. He walked the runway in a white jumpsuit with green and purple stripes and a bare chest with singer Divine Okubor, aka Rema’s song, ‘Addicted’ playing in the background. The fashion show which was titled, ‘Day of Victory’ was a tribute to late afrobeat originator, Fela AnikulapoKuti, Seun’s dad. Before the show began, the fashion house paid tribute to the afrobeat legend by playing snippets of a recording of his life and times.

This past week, Segun Awolowo, the grandson of former nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, feted members of Nigeria's high society as he hosted them to the classy wedding of his daughter, Yimika to her lover, Ifedotun Oluwadipe. It was a unification of three big society families

- The Awolowos, the Foworas from the bride's mother, Bola and the Folawiyos, led by Hajia Abba Folawiyo, the bride's paternal grandmother. The event was held at Harbour Point, Lagos. While the coordination of the event was handled by master of ceremony and comedian, Tunde Adewale aka TeeA, the wedding was planned by Yewande Zacheaus' event outfit, Zapphaire events.

At some point during the ceremony, Segun felt the need to feel and move around freely, so he removed his 'aso oke' agbada and his leather shoes and opted for a canvas which gave him a spring to his steps. On the band stand to serenade guests were Veentage band and saxophonist, Abolaji Banjoko aka Beejay Sax. On hand to lend their support to the host were governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State; Niyi Adebayo, former Ekiti State Dolapo Osinbajo, former first lady, Bimbo Ashiru, chairman Odua Investment Company; Senator Lanre Tejuosho; Bola Shagaya, Chief Opral Benson, Chief Mrs Yewande Onileere, Senator Florence Ita Giwa etc.

Farida Abdulkadri Celebrates as She Clocks 50

Barely two months after she attempted to commit suicide by jumping into the Lagos lagoon on Third Mainland bridge over the collapse of her two months old marriage, Farida Abdulkadir has reached the golden age of 50. The beauty entrepreneur and boss of House of Phreedah Bodycare and Spa, celebrated the day by taking close friends and family members to a dinner at Marriot Hotel, Lagos and thereafter retired to one of the exclusive suites in the hotel.

Earlier in the day, Farida gifted herself a 2022 model of Lexus saloon car with a customised plate number, 'Phree.' Friends,

family and her customers took time out to send her well wishes as they expressed delight to see her happy and celebrating again having moved on from the drama that characterised her marriage and its eventual collapse. She had tied the knot in June with Demola Okulaja in a lavish wedding ceremony that saw King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall serenading the couple and their guests which included traditional rulers, socialites, business moguls, movie stars etc while comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka steered proceedings. Farida claims she single handedly spent N100 million for the wedding ceremony. The couple’s love story started over two decades ago when they began an off-and-on relationship until recently when Ademola, after serving time in a London prison, returned to Nigeria and decided to take his relationship with Farida to the next level. They had barely settled down to enjoy marital bliss when the centre could no longer hold them together any longer.

Abdulkadri

The Oluwadipes and their bridal train

Adejumo

Ogunwusi

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

VENITA AKPOFURE APOLOGISES TO TIV NATION

Former Big Brother Naija All Stars housemate, Venita Akpofure, has apologised to the Tiv Nation over her controversial comment about the culture of the tribe. Venita sparked controversy after asserting on the reality show that Tiv men give their wives to visitors for entertainment purposes. The apex Tiv socio-cultural organisation, Mdzough U Tiv, Lagos State Branch, and the member representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency of Benue State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Dickson Tarkighir, had threatened legal action against Venita. The mother of two has now apologised. She said she regretted her careless comment, especially as her daughters are Tiv. “The statement I made about Tiv people got twisted a bit. My daughters are actually Tiv. There is no way I will be trying to make any kind of malicious or slanderous comment towards their people. Actually, in my season we did a whole play around the Tor Tiv coronation which I participated in and was super excited about. So, you know, sometimes you will say something, maybe it is a little bit careless. And I think it was really misconstrued. And for those that are offended by it, I’m regretful about that,” she said.

Jimmy Odukoya Officially Becomes Senior Pastor, Fountain of Life Church

Jimmy, son of the late Senior Pastor and Founder of the Fountain of Life Church, Taiwo Odukoya, has been officially installed as the senior pastor of the church. His sister, Tolu Odukoya-Ijogun, was also installed as the associate senior pastor.

Jimmy and Tolu’s parents, Taiwo and Bimbo, co-founded the church in 1992.

The installation ceremony, which was held at the headquarters of the church on Saturday September 30, was attended by several eminent personalities in Christendom, including the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission, Mike Okonkwo and his wife, Peace; the President of The Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Wale Oke; and the Senior Pastor of Foundation of Truth Assembly, Yomi Kasali. While delivering a sermon at the service, Oke reminisced on how humble the late Taiwo was and also applauded the church for giving him a befitting burial.

Alibaba Accuses Aspiring Artists of Engaging in Occultic Practices

Comedian and actor Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, popularly known as Alibaba, claims that aspiring artists engage in occultic practices prior to getting signed by a record label.

Alibaba claimed that these traditions are just one of many things that cause young artists to have blind spots. His comments comes amid growing public outrage over the allegations of abuse suffered by the late 27-year-old singer Ilerioluwa Olademeji, also known as Mohbad, until his demise on September 12.

“For me, there are some things that you would not want to do, and you must stick with it. It is the same thing with some of these artists — some of them do rituals now.

“As an artist, you must define your purpose, you must hold on to some strong values you’ve been brought up with.

“If you are someone who is in a position with your

creative abilities, you don’t need that kind of pressure. You don’t need somebody making you sign or take an oath for you to be creative.”

According to him, there is a strong desire to become well-known and successful that is displacing some artists' core principles and this, according to him, is where peer pressure sets in.

“People just want to blow; they want to be seen, they want to be heard, they want to make money, they want to belong. And because of that, they step back from the values they have been brought up with and do what they shouldn’t do,” he said.

Alibaba argued that certain artists are surviving and thriving despite the pressures of the entertainment industry.

“They don’t smoke, they don’t hold cigars, they don’t hold the glass cup and drink whiskey in their [music videos], and they insist on it. Even if the choreography says it would add colour to the video, they would say no,” he added.

“God used Pastor Taiwo and Bimbo Odukoya to found this church, and God is our cornerstone. They spent their years to honour God, and God has done them well,” he said. The new leaders of the church were then formally installed by Okonkwo, who is like the ‘grandfather’ of the church. This was because he ordained the late Pastor Taiwo to become a pastor and when the church was founded, he guided him all through the years. In an emotional laden voice, Jimmy then offered prayers to God, saying, “As your son, I want to say ‘thank you’. You have seen the sum total of who I am, and have placed me in this position. It is only by your grace that you have put me here. Thank you for putting me in the family of Pastor Taiwo and Bimbo Odukoya, and for making me carry their name. They stood, and despite the adversity, they carried your flag till their dying breath. Beyond the title, you looked at me and called me worthy.”

Okey Bakassi Recalls How he Almost Became a Drug Courier

Comedian and actor, Okechukwu Onyegbule, aka Okey Bakassi, has disclosed that he has been approached in Nigeria and abroad to peddle drugs. Okey revealed how he was invited with a juicy offer by fraudsters and drug dealers to join their business. He further noted that as an entertainer, you would be approached to peddle drugs. He said although the business is lucrative, he refused the offer and decided to keep things simple.

“When I came to Lagos as a young man, I was tempted by different people in so many ways. And I’m

talking about fraudsters and drug dealers. I was approached. When you are in entertainment, you will be approached to peddle drugs. I have been approached overseas, I have been approached in Nigeria by drug dealers.

“They will just show up in your hotel and talk business. They will tell you other people who are doing it and making money. But it is dangerous. For me, I want to be able to sleep well without being afraid of the police or any law enforcement agency. So I have tried from day one to keep things simple and be happy,” he said.

The All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, has emphasised the importance of regulating and institutionalising the music entertainment industry.

The organisation said this against the backdrop of the sudden demise of Nigeria’s singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka Mohbad, who died in mysterious circumstances on September 12, 2023 at the age of 27.

The President and Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mike Dada, lamented that Africa lost a promising talent in its growing music industry in a shocking manner. He noted that institutionalisation of the music/entertainment industry remains a top priority in curbing the unprofessional practices that have been existing within the industry in Africa.

“On behalf of the International Committee of AFRIMA, we condole with Nigeria’s music industry, parents and fans of MoHbad, over his painful demise.

MIKE DADA CALLS FOR REGULATION OF ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY

“The death of Mohbad is a tragic event that has left us all deeply saddened. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.

“With his demise, Africa has lost a promising talent in our growing music and entertainment industry. We pray God to grant him eternal rest, and grant his parents, family, and teeming fans the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss.

“AFRIMA is spearheading efforts to mobilise stakeholders in the creative industry in Africa, with a focus on Nigeria, to establish institutionalised operations and regulate the music entertainment industry," he said.

According to Dada, this includes the enactment of legislation that sets industry standards, regulations and compliance for music record labels, performing artists, music publishing companies, entertainment lawyers and other professionals.

“It is necessary to have a law that regulates the music industry to prevent it from becoming an unregulated free-for-all, as currently, the entry requirements are low such that anyone can just wake up and establish a music record label. To address this issue, African countries must establish a Music Institute to certify practitioners regularly," he continued.

AFRIMA is leveraging its platform to organize a stakeholder summit aimed at engaging the legislative arm of governments across Africa through the African Union.

“AFRIMA urges stakeholders, including relevant government officials and agencies, artistes, record labels, A&R, producers, promoters, artiste’s managers, brands, songwriters, DJs & video vixens, video directors, equipment production and rental companies, publishing companies, streaming service companies, entertainment lawyers, royalty companies among others, to participate in this crucial process. We urge stakeholders to submit their proposed legislation for review and consideration,” the AFRIMA President added.

Atunyota

Akpofure

Odukoya

Dada

Onyegbule

Odia Ofeimun in Many Colours

BY MICHAEL JIMOH

Odia has a story about his tailor once holding him to ransom. Known for his sartorial preference of using the same fabric for danshiki, sokoto and cap for which some chaps in his former neighbourhood at Oregun dubbed him “up and down,” he has remained faithful to his tailor of many years.

For all of that time, the rules of engagement was pretty much defined and remained unchanged for both of them: Not necessarily having to meet in person for months, Odia sends choice bales to the tailor who already has his measurement with the understanding that he will sew according to Odia’s specification. This has been mutually beneficial to both parties until the designer suddenly changed his mind one day.

That day, according to Odia, the tailor told him pointblank he’d reviewed his charges and there was going to be an increment from what he used to pay. Why would the tailor do that? After all, Odia provides the materials himself with little or no elaborate embroideries by the tailor. That is all very true, the tailor agreed. But then, he went on to say he used to see “Oga” on television. In his reckoning therefore, Odia must be a “big man” and so should pay accordingly. The poet had a good laugh. With an enduring reputation for never giving up in verbal confrontations big or small, Odia was, for once, at a loss for words. Here was his tailor insisting (with no option of the poet defending himself or refuting the claim) he has to shell out a fistful of more money for his bespoke, uniquely distinct traditional dresses and why he should. For a man who has a solid reputation for deploying words in his numerous verses, in his keen and analytical essays on past and current political events in Nigeria or in dispensing with an opponent’s views in public debates, words failed Odia in that one encounter with an ordinary Lagos tailor. The poet capitulated. The tailor got his money.

For about three hours from midmorning of Thursday, September 28, more than four dozen male and female guests converged on the top floor of Right House on Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja for the same man but not to ransom him. Instead, scholars including half a dozen professors, a former vice chancellor, politicians, lawyers, human rights activists, the literary smart set and journalists had come together to celebrate Odia Ofeimun on the occasion of a book presentation about the literary icon.

Sharing the podium with him was Reuben Abati, senior journalist, columnist, anchorman for ARISE TV and onetime spokesman for President Goodluck Jonathan; Martins Oloja MD of The Guardian newspaper and Molara Woods, journalist, writer and culture activist. There were Professors Kayode Soremekun, former Vice Chancellor Federal University, Oye-Ekiti; Mike Ikhariale, former Dean Faculty of Law Lagos State University, Ojo and Akin Onigbinde. Two Senior Advocates of Nigeria Femi Falana and Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika sat close by with Senator Yunus Akintunde. Though not present from the start, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former

governor of Osun state and ex-Minister of Internal Affairs, strolled in casually.

In a sense, you could say Odia himself has been a bit of the very different professionals at the book presentation. He is a notable Nigerian scholar, human rights crusader, poet, editorialist and guerilla journalist who battled military dictatorships to a standstill back in the nineties. He is also a politician and publisher having set up Hornbill House with an award-winning epic poem The Sahara Testaments by Tade Ipadeola which won first prize for poetry category of the Nigeria Prize for Literature in 2013 sponsored by Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas. Another title of Hornbill House Grits by Obari Gomba has now made the three final shortlist of the drama category of the same prize.

If Grits wins, then it will be a testament to the thoroughness and professionalism of those at the head of a nascent publishing concern lacking the resources of older and bigger ones in Nigeria.

Those who know Odia intimately say books have been part of his life from his preteens when he started keeping company with world classics in his uncle’s library at Iruekpen in Edo state. From then till now, Odia and books have never really parted ways, forming some kind of symbiotic relationship in the

process. Famously, his very first meeting with Wole Soyinka was on account of a sheaf of poems Odia had written and presented to Nigeria’s future Nobel laureate for vetting back in the seventies.

Odia’s emergence as a rising poet among a constellation of Nigeria’s literary stars was on account of The Poet Lied published in 1980. There have been several publications ever since with the poet himself famously writing, publishing and publicly presenting sometimes as many as 14 or 15 on the same day! Ranging across genres, there is, for instance, Taking Nigeria Seriously 2003, Lagos of the Poets 2010, In Search of Ogun: Soyinka In Spite of Nietzsche 2014 and quite a number of dance dramas: A Feast of Return, Under African Skies and so on.

And such is the legend of Odia’s fascination with books that when, in September 2018, he relocated from 20 Sanyaolu Street Oregun to his present residence somewhere in the heart of Ikeja, cartons and cartons of books constituted more than 80 percent of his belongings.

Against that backdrop, it was hardly any surprise the gathering at Right House was as much about the poet and a seminal publication on him Odia Ofeimun: In Search of a Common Morality - Essays, Tributes and Conversations edited by Wumi Raji, Sylvester Odion-Akhaine and Akin Adesokan. It was the result of a public lecture by some of the best and brightest of Odia’s generation and his contemporaries on the occasion of his 70th birthday on March 16 2020.

Compiled from a public lecture on the occasion of Odia’s 70th birthday on March 16 2020, the book features joint interviews with some of the best and brightest of his generation (late Harry Garuba, Biodun Jeyifo, Ben Okri, Femi Osofisan, Niyi Osundare, Modupe Olaogun) and reflections by those that came after (Adesokan, Ogaga Ifowodo, Tade Ipadeola, Owei Lakemfa, Omowunmi Segun, Uzor Maxim Uzoatu.)

Though in black & white, the accompanying photographs also tell their own story about the man Odia and his journey through the arts, politics and as a journalist. A photograph on page 48, for instance, shows Odia as a member of the Editorial Board of The Guardian in an interview with General Muhammadu Buhari at State House Dodan Barracks Obalende in 1984. Another is with a smiling Soyinka, one with Osundare in deep conversation at a literary conference maybe at Ibadan, a city that was known for producing and having more poets per square metre such that, according to local lore, if you threw a rock up anywhere it was likely to fall on a poet.

Of course, being an Awoist, another shot is of Obafemi Awolowo at the table with Odia and two others in the Awolowo household.

Organised by the Faculty of Arts University of Lagos, the publication is in recognition not only of Odia’s literary stature but his contribution to political and

Those who know Odia intimately say books have been part of his life from his preteens when he started keeping company with world classics in his uncle’s library at Iruekpen in Edo state

...Many Colours

human rights causes in Nigeria. Scheduled to hold for two days which it did at Akoka three years ago, a viral pandemic by way of COVID-19 scuttled what would have been a grand celebration of the poet and man of letters. As a result, there was scanty attendance for obvious reasons. Even so, it did not diminish the quality of presentations by scholars across Nigerian universities and outside the country.

Individually, the contributors, starting with Adesokan’s “The Fragmented Poetics of a Common Morality,” paint a personal portrait of the man and his literary oeuvre for more than four decades. The result is of a man “of many parts, and substance too” as Nehru Ode of TheNews magazine rightly captured Odia’s essence in a report of October 2. “He may not have riches that are measured in monetary terms and property, but his wealth of ideas surpasses everything. He may not have the material trappings that many crave in a philistine society like ours, but his works are imprinted not just in the world of politics and literature but also in our minds and the sands of time. “He may not have all that many believe defines a man in a materialist society, but his interventions in politics and literature have defined the ethos of this nation. Yet at 73 he is still a material any day, any time, still a voice for the oppressed and marginalized and showing no sign of buckling. This indeed is the intriguing story of Ofeimun, a writer who has given his all, and sacrificed so much, not just for literature but also for the betterment of the country.”

If you needed further proof of Odia’s versatility and courageous commitment to life and letters, Abati provided it in his review of the book. “Odia Ofeimun is one of the most impactful, productive, influential public intellectuals that Nigeria has produced in the past four decades, with his contributions to poetry, journalism, literary criticism, public affairs and stage presentations forming a formidable part of the canon.”

Moderated by one of the editors Odion-Akhaine, others had graceful words for Odia and, of course, the country he has worked so hard to make better. Olumide-Fusika who was chairman of the book presentation recalled hearing of Odia in 1979. Now a SAN, Olumide-Fusika was a 13-year-old then who used to browse newspapers father brought home. Odia is “worth celebrating,” the lawyer submitted. “He’s been celebrated and this is a continuation of that celebration. When I look around this hall today, I see us from the various divides of Nigeria – religion, ethnicity, age-wise. But we are all gathered here to celebrate a man of merit. So when we see merit, we recognize it.

“As we celebrate today, I think it is also an occasion for us to appreciate the enormity of our failure as individuals and as a country. When Professor Wole Soyinka described his own generation as a failed one, our own was thinking okay we would not fail, we would do better. But I think we can ask ourselves the question: how well have we done?”

Regardless of what Nigerians, especially the ruling elite from independence till date, have made of their country, Odia has done well for himself in his métier, a point echoed by speaker after speaker. For Ms. Woods, besides Odia’s contribution to literature on a national level, it is also personal. “He has contributed so much to me as a writer that I wouldn’t even know how to begin to describe it. And he has contributed so much, and I would like to just pay tribute for, without him, we would not have much of the writing, the literary production that we are having in this country. So, I am very honoured to be here.”

So was Soremekun in his speech, recalling that he was “besieged with memories of the guerrilla days when he and Ofeimun were on the editorial board of AM NEWS.” He also praised Ofeimun “for his sense of commitment, his discipline and his determination to lead a Spartan life even when he had many opportunities to enrich himself.”

“We are here to celebrate a man who, I would say, runs against the grain in the sense that he is not a poor man, as Biodun Jeyifo said in this book. But that he has chosen to virtually impoverish himself. And that is rare in a society where material trappings count for much. Odia belongs to the fringe. If you’ve read Ayi Kwei Armah, Odia is more or less like that nameless man in Ayi Kwei Armah’s book The Beautiful Ones Are Not Yet Born. He epitomises that. How many people can be counted like that in this country?”

On his part, Falana thumbed up for the editors of In Search of a Common Morality “for honouring a man who deserves all the honour one can give him while he is alive,” and to hope for such sessions “to discuss our heroes as well as our country.”

What did the lawyer have to say about Nigeria?

Cheerless news because “the dollarization of the Nigerian economy is telling on the masses, majority of whom don’t know how the American dollar looks like…the majority of Nigerians have nothing to do with foreign exchange. It’s the business of the elites. And so when you unleash violence on our people because you are looking for dollars, please think all

the time that the majority of Nigerians have no contact with the dollar, and have never seen it in their lives.”

In a veiled counter to Falana’s assertion, Senator Akintunde blamed Nigerians in general "for the dollarization of the Nigerian economy" and not just the political elite in the FCT. “All of us are killing dollars,” Akintunde said. “If we desire to consume what we produce, naira would be strong enough. There is nowhere in the world where your production is in a weak currency and your consumption is in hard currency and the equation will balance up. It will never be. That’s the system here and we just have to realize that. All of us have to buy the idea that we have to grow this country together, whether someone is a lawyer or not. A lawyer would request for dollars because he too probably is paying for whatever he buys in dollars.”

For Ikhariele former Dean of Faculty of Law LASU, the name Ofeimun has a telling significance to the Esan tribe in Edo. It means “fearless one” which Odia has lived up to for his “uncommon boldness and courage in the face of mounting challenges.”

Though a late arrival to the event, Aregbesola left no one in doubt as to his relationship with and commitment to Odia. “My commitment to Odia is eternal, sacred and permanent. I said I must come because Odia must not find me wanting, wherever he is being celebrated. How he qualifies for that for me is simple. When I was in school, Odia was already tied to my own hero, Baba Obafemi Awolowo. So even at that time, I used to write Baba. Whether he got to him or not I wouldn’t know.

“But Odia was a constant face. The first day that we met and we talked it was a dream come true. And we have had a relationship ever since. So Odia is a toast to those of us who have had some interest in society and how to tweak it to be better. So, for those who are yet to know who he is, Odia represents the best in all of us, to chronicle what it is that we all adore and want for our nation.”

The contributors in the book also feel the same way as the politician, those who know Odia intimately –whether on the literary turf or his private life. At more than 300 pages, complete with citations and index, In Search of a Common Morality is an invaluable compendium on and about one of the most dynamic figures of contemporary Nigerian literature. There are personal recollections and reflections on the man himself and scholarly analysis of his prodigious creative output. Quoting Odia in one of his essays, “Impossible Death of the African Author,” Adesokan posits thusly: “Odia Ofeimun writes of the Ghanaian writer Ayi Kwei Armah as one of Africa’s best, one of the most exciting, one of those, whether we like it or not, we will encounter deep into the coming centuries.”

For Adesokan, author of Roots in the Sky and Associate professor of Comparative Literature at Indiana University Bloomington, there is no better way to describe Odia himself: “I can think of no better way to characterize Ofeimun’s own status as an African writer…than to say of him what he has said of Armah.” And what did Odia himself say about the book presentation on and about him? “I’m glad to be in the midst of friends whom I don’t meet on an everyday basis,” the poet began, “but who, even when I don’t see, I can count upon. That is, people whose names I can swear by even when I don’t see them…I do wish that every friend of mine who is a contributor to the progress we are making in this society is defended by the anointing of the presences they offer to the rest of the world. Here, I’m not just anointing. I’m not just celebrating my friends because they have come to celebrate me. But I’m genuinely celebrating everybody because even when we do not meet, we know them wherever they are, even when they are not being heard by everybody.”

Odia Ofeimun is one of the most impactful, productive, influential public intellectuals that Nigeria has produced in the past four decades, with his contributions to poetry, journalism, literary criticism, public affairs and stage presentations forming a formidable part of the canon

Lessons From Social Media Storm Generated by Osimhen, Napoli Tiktok Controversy

BY JUDE OBAFEMI

On September 25, a TikTok post from the Napoli account sparked a social media firestorm spanning continents and involving figures from footballers to government officials. The video in question featured clips of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen missing a penalty kick interspersed with an oddly distorted voiceover. This prompted accusations of racism and mockery which Napoli strongly denied. While the club maintained that no malice was intended, the backlash was swift and far-reaching.

To fully comprehend the escalating tensions, it is vital to understand the background leading up to this point. Victor Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 for a club record fee of $80 million, with potential add-ons taken into consideration.

As Nigeria's biggest footballing star, his move brought immense pride but also intense pressure to succeed. Initial injuries and COVID-19 setbacks prevented Osimhen from making an immediate

impact. However, he soon showcased immense talent, finishing last season by helping the I Partenopei lift their first Scudetto in over three decades since the time of the late icon Diego Maradona.

Alongside that historic victory, Osimhen became the first African to secure the Serie A top scorer award, to become the first black capocannoniere after netting an impressive 26 goals in 38 games. His remarkable performance not only earned him personal accolades in Italy but for Nigeria as well. Osimhen's contribution to the Nigerian national team was invaluable in the period. He scored five goals in six games during the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, leading his country to the top of their group. With 17 goals in 25 games, he currently stands as the sixth-highest goalscorer in the history of the Nigerian national team. This highlights the exalted position he occupies in the Super Eagles' squad and in the heart of the footballloving Nigerians.

Coming into the current season, expectations of Osimhen's exploits were high, especially after he apparently rebuffed incessant interests from Europe's top sides, such as Manchester United, Chelsea, in the English Premier League, Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga,

With criticism mounting, Napoli finally removed the post from their TikTok channel

Laurentis

...Storm Generated by Osimhen, Napoli Tiktok Controversy

and an outrageous money inducement from the Saudi Pro League to remain in Naples. This was important for the club with Osimhen being so central to Napoli's title ambitions. However, the Napoli striker faced ridicule from an unlikely source two weeks ago after his own club's official TikTok account posted the mocking clip. It came after the Nigerian international saw his penalty kick saved during Napoli's frustrating 0-0 draw away to Bologna on Sunday. With the game still goalless, Osimhen stepped up hoping to give Napoli a late winner. Unfortunately, the 24-year-old blasted his spot kick wide, much to the dismay of fans expecting maximum points. Osimhen was subsequently substituted and had to later apologise to teammates over the miss and his reaction to being replaced.

It was after this goalless result that Napoli's official TikTok page posted a video appearing to mock Osimhen, with the childish audio inserted as he challenged for the penalty and failed to score. The club left the controversial post online for over 24 hours. Unsurprisingly, the video sparked outrage among Nigerian football supporters. They slammed Napoli for denigrating their own player in such an unprofessional manner. The TikTok clip was widely recirculated on social media, escalating the backlash.

With criticism mounting, Napoli finally removed the post from their TikTok channel. Still, the damage was already done, with many arguing players should be off limits for official club ridicule. Osimhen himself reacted by removing every and any post on his social media that has any association with the club, leaving his personal pictures and pictures of himself in the Green and White of Nigeria.

Matters escalated further when Napoli's head of social media, Alessio Fortino, resigned just days later. Fortino was tasked with coordinating and overseeing Napoli's social media efforts rather than being in charge of editorial duties at

Continued from Back Page

where the Osimhen video was posted. His social media responsibilities were therefore unrelated to any editorial activities at the club's social media handles. While that was the official position, it is hard to ignore the timing of his departure. His resignation came at a time when the club was under intense scrutiny for its handling of the situation.

Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, John Enoh, took up Osimhen's cause. Dare drew the Nigerian Foreign Ministry and Nigeria's ambassador to Italy into the fray, determined to defend Osimhen from perceived mistreatment.

On their part, Napoli claimed no racial motivations, stating the video aimed to show

Addressing The Recurring Friction Between Presidents/Governors And Deputies

To remedy the problem, several reforms could promote healthier working partnerships with a constitutional review long overdue to help in explicitly clarifying the powers, responsibilities and limits of both offices to prevent future conflicts. Assigning explicit roles with distinct portfolios will minimise overload and potential friction at the apex. Amending impeachment procedures can also add stability and check the abuse of the process by a President or a Governor. The fact is that there are people that casted their votes for the ticket because of their preference for the deputy.

More significantly, reconsidering the origins of ticket pairing may help. Allowing presidents or governors a say in choosing respected, compatible running mates based on merit might foster working relationships anchored on mutual respect rather than strenuous dominance.

The Nigerian presidential system of government under the current set of politicians is too weak to allow the President and state governors wield so much political power unchecked to the extent that they see themselves as emperors and dictators. A president or governor should not have the influence or power to arbitrarily influence the legislature and judiciary to remove their deputies over political disagreements or quarrels. With smart institutional and political changes, Nigeria can cultivate a culture where collective leadership surmounts ego-driven squabbles. By streamlining duties and encouraging cooperation, governance throughout the federation can become more robust, stable and people-centred and less vulnerable to the slippery slope of internal strife. Overall, such measures will enhance confidence that Nigerians' votes indeed translate to cohesive, responsive governance.

Osimhen's humility and willingness to redeem himself after the penalty miss. Osimhen himself attempted to diffuse tensions by professing his continued devotion and respect for Napoli. However, neither this nor Napoli's denial of racism satisfied the majority of Nigerian football fans, who continued demanding not just an unambiguous apology but mediatory action.

Opinions on the severity of the incident remain divided. Supporters of Osimhen and the Nigerian government argue that dismissiveness about racist undertones enables discrimination. To them, Napoli must be held accountable for crossing ethical lines, regardless of claims of innocence. Conversely, Napoli maintain that while the video may have been poorly conceived, vitriol towards it is unwarranted given benign intentions. Some also highlight Osimhen's own restraint, suggesting overreactions serve little constructive purpose.

Evaluating the necessity and proportionality of the Nigerian government's response is also debated. Those supportive emphasise that defending citizens, especially high profile athletes, against perceived slights remains vital, particularly regarding racial issues. However, others contend that diplomatic escalations, involving the Foreign Affairs Minister and Italian ambassador, were premature at this stage.

This controversy echoes similar issues in football involving power imbalances. Players often face exploitative treatment, fueling demands for greater protections. Racism towards prominent black players like Osimhen also necessitates strong anti-discrimination policies. However, balancing accountability with measured responses remains complex. Footballers hold enormous cultural influence. How teams and leagues handle racial controversies can profoundly impact progress. While eradicating racism justifies firm stances, overly zealous reactions can also breed resentment and resistance.

Parallels exist in how Brazilian authorities staunchly defended soccer star Vinicius Jr. against racist incidents. However, contexts differ, requiring nuanced handling. Following established protocols for investigating discrimination claims before making accusations can help avoid inflaming tensions unconstructively. Addressing the deeper challenges highlighted by this controversy remains vital. Increased cultural and racial sensitivity training could significantly improve team environments. Social media guidelines regarding appropriate content must also be strengthened to avoid issues.

Additionally, improved channels allowing players to raise concerns discreetly could identify and resolve problems before they become public spectacles requiring extreme measures. Teams should also build relationships with national Federations and governing bodies to facilitate good-faith cooperation when disputes occur.

Enoh

Addressing The Recurring Friction Between Presidents/Governors And Deputies

The fractious relationships that have plagued many Nigerian presidencies and governorships in the Fourth Republic can be traced back to the lack of clear constitutional definitions around the roles and responsibilities of vice presidents and deputy governors. Since the return to democracy in 1999, personal conflicts and power struggles at the highest levels of government have significantly impeded effective governance in numerous states. One of the earliest and most prominent examples was the strained partnership between President Olusegun Obasanjo and Vice President Atiku Abubakar from 1999 to 2007. Their frequent public disagreements over key policy issues and Obasanjo's botched third term ambition created friction which rocked the administration. Atiku was eventually isolated after voicing his own presidential ambition, showing how such discord can spill over into high-stake national politics.

The Obasanjo-Atiku experience set the tone for many conflicts to follow at both the federal and state levels. In Lagos, the long-running power tussle between Governor Bola Tinubu and his deputy, Kofoworola Bucknor, which began shortly after their victory in the 1999 general election, comes to mind. A major source of disagreement was Tinubu's 2003 creation of 37 new local council development areas, which Bucknor opposed as unconstitutional and a political power grab. She accused Tinubu of sidelining her from governance and orchestrating attacks on her supporters.

In the next election, Bucknor defected to the PDP and challenged Tinubu's re-election bid, though he won handily. The conflict polarised voters along religious lines, exposed the fragility of Lagos' democracy and strained relations between Lagos and the Federal Government under President Obasanjo. Ultimately, the Tinubu-Bucknor fallout had lasting impacts on Lagos politics. This was not helped by even more conflicts between Tinubu and Bucknor's successor, Femi Pedro, who deputised in Lagos State between 1999 and 2007. The conflict started when Pedro declared his intention to run for the governorship election in 2007 against Tinubu's wish.

Pedro competed to become the AC candidate for governor, but he withdrew his name on the eve of the party’s nominations. He then resigned from his position as deputy governor after learning of his imminent impeachment, but the Lagos State

House of Assembly rejected his resignation and impeached him instead.

Having fallen out with Tinubu and his party, Pedro joined the Labour Party initially and then later defected to the PDP, before returning to the APC in 2014.

Similar clashes between governors and their deputies have played out in other crucial states like Edo and Ondo States among others.

In Edo, tensions erupted in August 2023 when Governor Obaseki accused Deputy Governor Shaibu of plotting against him and trying to engineer a legislative coup. Shaibu denied the allegations and affirmed his loyalty. The feud seemed to cool in September when he withdrew a lawsuit against Obaseki to prevent his impeachment. However, relations deteriorated further days later when Obaseki locked Shaibu out of the Government House and relocated his office, alleging the

deputy was trying to destabilise the administration. Despite the deputygovernor’s continued denials and professions of loyalty, the clashes exposed divisions between the top two officials in Edo state.

The Ondo State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa over allegations of gross misconduct, including undermining the governor, contravening his oath of office, and financial improprieties.

Aiyedatiwa was accused of giving negative interviews against the governor, acting against government interests, illegally engaging in business activities, falsifying travel claims, and misusing state funds for vehicles. He denied the allegations and obtained a court injunction to halt the impeachment process, pending a hearing. The clashes have sparked a political crisis between Aiyedatiwa and Governor Akeredolu, with the former now fighting to defend himself against removal from office.

You will agree with me that these bickering and quarrels are a huge distraction on the quality of governance hence there is an urgent requirement to find a lasting fix to it.

While there are no easy solutions, one place to begin will be dialogue and reconciliation for already strained relationships. Creating opportunities for governors and deputies to directly communicate, air grievances and find common ground is vital. Party leaders, elders, and other respected figures can mediate these discussions and help mend broken relationships.

Furthermore, there is the necessity for respect and mutual loyalty because they both ran and were elected on a joint ticket. Presidents and governors and their deputies must respect each other's constitutional roles and mandates.

However, the root of the issue lies in the vague constitutional definitions of the vice presidency and deputy governorship. As extensions of executive authority rather than independent oversight offices, vice presidents and deputies inherently rely on the discretion of the president or governor for relevance and influence. I don't think it should be so. This power imbalance breeds contempt and opens the door for internal power plays.

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By streamlining duties and encouraging cooperation, governance throughout the federation can become more robust, stable and people-centred and less vulnerable to the slippery slope of internal strife