Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has received some prominent chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who defected to the
ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. This is just as a former Governor of Sokoto State and senator representing Sokoto South senatorial district, Aminu Tambuwal, expressed his disappointment over the recent
defections of PDP members to the ruling APC, stressing that no politician with conscience will join the APC.
Among the prominent PDP defectors are a former governor of Kaduna State, Muktar Ramalan Yero;
a former senator who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone, Shehu Sani; former senator for Kaduna North Senatorial zone and governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) in Kaduna during the 2023 elections,
Suleiman Hunkuyi; a former member House of Representatives, Sani Shaaban, Others are a two term senator who represented Kaduna South senatorial zone, Danjuma La'ah; a former National Organising
Secretary of PDP, Abubakar Mustapha, and a former Nigerian envoy to South Korea, Ambassador Sule Buba, among several others. Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to
New Twist to PDP Crisis as Court Orders Probe of Alleged Forgery of Election Guidelines
The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new dimension as a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Magistrate Court presided over by Hon. Fatima I. Bukar has ordered the FCT Police Command to investigate the allegations of forgery of the party's primary election guidelines levelled against the national officers of the party. THISDAY gathered that following the court order, the FCT police have quizzed the National Vice Chairman of the party (South-east), Ali Odefa; factional National Secretary, Chief Sunday Ude-Okoye; and some members of staff of the national secretariat of the party.
However, the official printers of the party, Abiodun Olu Printers Limited, who were expected to appear last Wednesday, pleaded that they were
Ethiopia…yesterday
L-R: Chairman of the wedding reception, Senator Mohammed Sanusi Daggash; Mother of the bride, Mrs. Kate Isa; the couple, Afamefuna and Amina lbekwe; Father of the bride, Alhaji Abdulrazaq lsa; Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Senator Florence lta-Giwa; and Mother of the groom, Mrs. Ada Ejikeme, during the grand wedding reception of the couple in Lagos...yesterday
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has advised African leaders to prioritise inclusion, legitimacy and economic empowerment as a means of ensuring political stability and sustainable development.
Hamas Releases Three Israeli Hostages in Latest Deal
Gaza militants handed three Israeli hostages over to the Red Cross yesterday in an exchange that is also set to see the release of 369 Palestinians from Israeli custody, the latest such swap under an ongoing truce deal.
Hamas militants parade the hostages onto a stage in Gaza’s southern city of Khan Yunis, where they were told to address the crowd before their handover to the Red Cross.
Clutching gift bags given by their captors and a certificate to mark the end of their captivity, the three men, flanked by fighters, called for the completion of further hostage exchanges under the ceasefire deal.
The release, the sixth sense the truce took effect on January 19, came after fears last week that the deal between Israel and Hamas was near collapse. But on Friday both sides signalled that Saturday’s swap would go ahead.
Dozens of Hamas fighters lined up around the stage bearing the logo of the group’s armed wing, the Ezzedine AlQassam Brigades, as Palestinian nationalist music played.
Sources from Hamas and Islamic Jihad said the groups had deployed about 200 militants for the handover ceremony.
A crowd also gathered in
not in town and would appear at a later date for questioning.
This is just as the South-south Zonal Executive of the party has suspended its Zonal Secretary, Chief Felix Omemu.
THISDAY gathered that the directive of the FCT Magistrate Court followed a petition filed by a member of the party, Mike Iheanaetu, alleging that the documents used by the High Court in Enugu and the Court of Appeal to deliver the judgments that affirmed Sunday Ude-Okoye as the National Secretary of the party were forged.
Conveying the court’s directive to the police, the Principal Registrar of Abuja
Tel Aviv’s “Hostages Square” to watch the exchange, with many carrying Israeli flags and posters in support of the captives.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had named the hostages as Israeli-American Sagui DekelChen, Israeli-Russian Sasha Trupanov and Israeli-Argentinian Yair Horn.
They had been held by Gaza militants since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the war 16 months ago.
The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club advocacy group said Israel was to release 369 inmates in exchange, with 24 of them expected to be deported.
Almost all of the rest are “prisoners from the Gaza Strip who were arrested after October 7”, the group said.
After the deal had appeared to be on the brink of collapse, a Hamas official on Friday said the group expected talks on a second phase of the ceasefire to begin early next week.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whose country is Israel’s top backer and one of the truce mediators, is due to arrive in Israel late Saturday ahead of expected talks with Netanyahu on the Gaza truce.
Last week’s release sparked
Magistrate Court, Yusuf Tambaya, had in a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, FCT Police Command, stated that: ''I am directed by the presiding Magistrate 1, Her Worship, Hon. Fatima I. Bukar sitting at Magistrate Court Wuse Zone 6, FCT, Abuja to write to your office to investigate the above-mentioned case and report back within two weeks from the date of the receipt of this if a prima facie case has been established against the defendants, the defendants should be brought on FIR for trial.
''Thanks for your cooperation, find attached a copy of the criminal
HUNKUYI, SHEHU SANI, OTHERS TO APC TAMBUWAL: NO POLITICIAN WITH CONSCIENCE WILL DEFECTTO RULING PARTY
the governor, Ibraheem Musa, said in a statement issued last night that the defectors were received at a ceremony at Murtala Square Kaduna.
Musa said the governor assured the 50 party stalwarts, mostly members of the opposition PDP, that they will be treated equally in the state APC.
Governor Sani said the popularity and acceptability of the APC was because of its just leadership at both the state and federal levels.
The governor said: "In the 2027 election, the electorate will vote for APC in all the elections, from top to bottom.
"At the top, our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be elected. At the state level, the party will be voted for at the gubernatorial, National and State Assembly elections, by the Grace of God.”
Meanwhile, Tambuwal has stated that the defections were based on ‘stomach infrastructure.’
Speaking to journalists yesterday shortly after the North-west Zonal meeting of the PDP held at Hotel 17, Kaduna, Tambuwal attributed the defections to “stomach infrastructure” rather than the interest of the people.
“People leave parties for certain reasons or different reasons, but what I have been observing in the past are defections not based on the interest of the people but based on stomach infrastructure,” Tambuwal said.
According to him, “if you are talking about defecting in the interest of the people, I believe no
anger in Israel and beyond after the freed hostages were paraded onstage, with their emaciated state sparking concern over conditions in captivity.
Israeli-American hostage Keith Siegel, released in a previous exchange, said he was “starved and… tortured, both physically and emotionally” during his captivity.
There were also fears for Palestinians in Israeli custody
after some prisoners required medical treatment following their release in the last swap.
The ceasefire has been under massive strain since US President Donald Trump proposed a takeover of the Gaza Strip under which the territory’s population of more than two million people would be moved to Egypt or Jordan.
For Palestinians, any forced displacement evokes memories
of the “Nakba”, or catastrophe — the mass displacement of their ancestors during Israel’s creation in 1948.
The stage set up for the release on Saturday bore an illustrated poster appearing to depict the final moments of Hamas’s leader Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in October. It showed the Al-Aqsa Mosque visible through a hole in the wall of a destroyed building along with
the slogan: “No displacement except to Jerusalem”. Arab countries have come together to reject Trump’s plan, and Saudi Arabia will host the leaders of Egypt, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates on Thursday for a summit on the issue.
After the Riyadh summit, the Arab League will convene in Cairo on February 27 to discuss the same issue.
Shell Outlines Strategies to Boost Local Content in Nigerian Oil and Gas Operations
Ejiofor Alike
Shell has identified key enablers for boosting local content in the oil and gas industry, saying strategic partnerships, capacity building, and adherence to regulations would help Nigeria to derive more value from the participation of local businesses in such operations. The remark was made by the General Manager of the Nigerian Content Development of The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) Olanrewaju Olawuyi, at a panel session on “on “Local
complaint. Accept her worship’s assurance of the highest esteem and warmest regards,'' the letter read.
The petitioner was said to have claimed that the original guidelines for the PDP primary election were signed on February 17, 2022, by the former National Chairman of the party, Dr. Iyochia Ayu; and the embattled National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, while the alleged fake guidelines used to secure victory for Ude-Okoye were not dated and signed.
The petitioner also insisted that Section 47, subsection 5 of the PDP Constitution does not stipulate that a party official seeking to contest a public election should resign.
one can go to the APC. If you are a politician with a conscience, with the current policies being driven by the government of the APC and the current economic doldrum that the APC has driven Nigerians into hardship across the country and the dismal performance of the Tinubu’s administration, there is nothing attractive outside stomach infrastructure.”
Tambuwal questioned the motivation behind the defections, stating that no politician with a conscience would join the APC given its current policies and the economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
“So, those based on stomach infrastructure are not worrisome. It is for all of us who believe in this country, who believe in the service of the people, to continue to come together and work out something that will ensure that by 2027, we ease out this administration that lacks focus, that has no compassion, that does not have any direction and that is riderless,” he said.
The senator urged like-minded Nigerians to come together and work towards ensuring that the APC was voted out by 2027.
Meanwhile, the PDP in the Northwest has reiterated its commitment to providing leadership and moving the country forward, vowing to oust the APC from power in Nigeria.
According to a communique read by the Northwest Zonal Chairman, Alhaji Bello Gwarzo, the party resolved to take its rightful position at the national level and provide leadership to move the country forward.
However, in the alleged fake primary election guidelines, it is stated that: “Pursuant to Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022, any aspirant who is a political appointee shall resign his appointment before the purchase of Expression of Interest (EOI) and nomination forms.
“Pursuant to Section 47 (5) of the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended) which mandatorily requires resignation of any elected officer of the party vying for elective office; any aspirant who is a party office Holder/Executive Committee Member at any level shall resign his or her office or appointment seven days before the purchase of the Expression of Interest Form and shall provide, Proof of Resignation along with his or her completed EOl Form before being allowed to procure the nomination form. Failure to adhere to this provision shall be grounds for automatic disqualification of such an
The former president also urged African nations to invest in education, digital infrastructure, and skills development to be able to transform the continent’s youthful population into a force for innovation, leadership and global competitiveness.
According to a statement by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, the former president made this call in a keynote speech he presented in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Jonathan made the speech at the launch of a report on 'Advancing Inclusive Development: Policy Options for Burkina, Faso, Guinea, Gabon, Mali and Niger' produced by the African Union Commission, UNDP’s Africa Facility to Support Inclusive Transitions (AFSIT) and the Institute for Security Studies (ISS).
Jonathan, who insisted that the future of Africa can no longer be left to chance, declared that governance
Content Private Sector” at the just concluded Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) in Lagos.
Drawing lessons from the experience of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Olawuyi said it was necessary to encourage indigenous companies to form partnerships to deliver major work scopes.
“By awarding contracts worth $1.98 billion to Nigerian businesses in 2023, Shell has bolstered the capabilities of local firms, enabling them to become regional contractors,” he said.
aspirant.”
The complainant alleged that it was this purportedly forged PDP election guidelines that the Enugu State High Court and Court of Appeal relied on to deliver their judgments in favour of Ude-Okoye.
Iheanaetu's lawyer, Kalu Kalu, therefore prayed the court to ''Kindly cause a Writ of Criminal Summons to be issued against the defendants at the instance of the complainant for the forgery of particulars of the PDP election guidelines.”
According to the lawyer, “We are the solicitors to the complainant in the complaint and we have the instruction of our client to state as follows: That our client is the complainant in this case, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party and a Nigerian citizen who resides at Utako, FCT, Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court.”
Among other claims, the lawyer alleged that “the said forged election guidelines have created a lot of crises amongst members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
''That the 1st and 2nd defendants are determined to continue to use the said Election Guidelines to create more crises in the said party. That our client has suffered irreparable loss as a result of the use of the said forged Election Guidelines by the 1st and 2nd defendants.
''That our client has consulted us and we found that the facts disclosed disclose that the offence of forgery has been committed by the defendants and now have the instruction of our client to file this Direct Criminal Complaint.”
must be rooted in legitimacy and inclusion.
To address instability, he charged African leaders to take decisive steps to build a continent that is strong, self-reliant and prosperous by governing wisely and investing in economies that create jobs, industries and sustainable wealth.
He said: “Political stability cannot be sustained without trusted institutions, rule of law and leadership that earns its mandate from the people. We must invest in building responsive governance structures, fostering constitutional integrity, and ensuring that democratic processes deliver tangible dividends for all citizens.”
The former president also made a case for profound economic transformation, stating that fragile states do not emerge solely from political upheaval “but are by
He reiterated the need to improve the expertise of local companies through training and provision of resources. “At Shell, we have implemented projects like the Nigerian Diving school to increase divers capacity in Nigeria, domestication of 3D printing technology, and research work to develop synthetic base fluid for drilling. These are among many efforts to develop the capacity of suppliers.”
He said compliance with local content policies was essential as this had helped to ensure Shell’s operations benefit the local economy while at the same time
THISDAY gathered that it was based on these complaints that the FCT Police Command invited PDP officials.
The officials concerned appeared before the FCT Police investigation team and made statements on what they knew about the alleged forged PDP guidelines.
THISDAY gathered that official printers of the party were asked to come with the original artworks of the guidelines to determine how the alleged forged guidelines found their way and were eventually inserted into the original guidelines.
Meanwhile, the South-south Zonal Executive has suspended its Zonal Secretary, Omemu for one month for alleged misconduct and unauthorised statements in the media discrediting the Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) meeting held in Benin City, Edo State.
Omemu, had in a statement, issued in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, claimed that the meeting summoned by the party’s National Vice Chairman, South-south, Chief Dan Orbih was illegal.
Citing the PDP Constitution, Omemu argued that the ZEC meeting could only be held with the approval of the Zonal Working Committee.
He argued that there was no time the Zonal Working Committee deliberated and agreed to convene a meeting of the Zonal Executive Council.
However, at the South-south ZEC
products of economic exclusion, underdevelopment, and the absence of viable livelihoods… Africa’s economic future lies in industrialisation, technology-driven growth and regional trade integration.”
Speaking further on the need to empower the youth, Jonathan said: “We must shift from treating demographics as a challenge to embracing it as a strategic advantage. Our youth must not be seen as a demographic burden, but as a generational force for innovation, leadership, and global competitiveness. Investing in education, digital infrastructure, and skills development is no longer optional - it is imperative!”
The former president also asserted that security must be re-imagined to enhance development and stability.
“We must go beyond traditional military responses and adopt a
fostering trust and collaboration with host communities. Olawuyi explained: “Shell has learnt that the local content race is not a sprint, but a marathon and it makes a lot of business sense and creates value long term. As the energy sector evolves, local content strategies will shift from simple compliance to valuedriven partnerships, technology adoption, and sustainable economic impact. Companies that invest in innovation, digital transformation, and workforce development will lead in shaping the next phase of local content growth.”
meeting in Benin, Edo State, the factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Chike Amaewhule, moved the motion for the suspension of Omemu, which was seconded by the member representing Ogoja/ Yala constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Godwin Offiono. Amaewhule accused Omemu of misconduct, breach of trust, and fostering division among the party members.
He said the suspension was due to the issuance of unauthorised statements in the media concerning the ZEC South-south meeting, and calling on members not to attend.
"Chief Felix Omemu must be suspended and a Disciplinary Committee set up to investigate the zonal secretary," Amaewhule said. Amaewhule described the Zonal Secretary's action as illegal and an attempt to cause disunity and dissuade members from attending the Southsouth ZEC meeting in Benin.
Following the suspension, PDP Zonal Legal Adviser, George Turnah was immediately appointed to function as the Acting Zonal Secretary.
On his part, National Vice Chairman (South-south), Chief Dan Orbih lauded the ZEC for the suspension, saying the move was aimed at repositioning the party and curbing the excesses of some leaders and members.
The South-south Zonal Executive Committee meeting was attended by Senators and House of Representatives’ members drawn from the states in the South-south except Akwa Ibom State.
whole-of-society approach; one that addresses the root causes of conflict which are poverty, marginalisation, and weak governance.”
Speaking on the role Nigeria should play in Africa’s renaissance, Jonathan said: “Nigeria as the largest democracy and one of the largest economies on the continent, carries both a responsibility and a privilege; the responsibility to lead by example, and the privilege to serve as a catalyst for Africa’s collective aspirations.”
The former president also described Africa as the world’s “youngest continent, its fastestgrowing economic frontier, and a region reasonably endowed with resources”, adding that the continent must device a means of dealing with its “deep-seated weaknesses which include governance deficits, political instability, economic fragility and the enduring effects of external shocks.”
GETTING SET FOR COUNCIL MEETING…
Akpabio, Mbah, Ooni, NADECO, Others Mourn
Adebanjo, Say His Passing End of an Era
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Enugu State, Mr. Peter Mbah; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and a non-partisan, socio-political and economic development-oriented organisation, Anya-Ndi-Igbo, yesterday described the demise of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo as the end of an era.
Adebanjo died on Friday in his Lagos home. He was 96.
Akpabio, in a statement he signed in Abuja yesterday, said he received the news of the passing of Pa Adebanjo, a renowned leader and elder statesman with profound sadness.
According to him, Pa Adebanjo’s glorious exit at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, adding that as a people, “we mourn the loss of a selfless patriot, who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, equity and justice.
“His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equity has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
“His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to work toward
a more just and equitable society.”
On his part, Governor of Enugu State, Mbah, described him as a patriot, soldier of democracy, and a respectable statesman.
Mbah in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @ PNMbah, described the late nonagenarian as a courageous and principled leader, who said it exactly the way he saw it, irrespective of whose ox was gored.
"He was a forthright, courageous, and principled leader, who spoke the truth without fear or favour. Always at the vanguard of equity and justice, Pa Adebanjo stoutly defended what he believed to be true, right, and just.”
"He was a soldier of democracy. Whether it was in the days of Pa Obafemi Awolowo or during the military era and the struggle for democracy under the auspices of the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, he was fearless in the trenches, fighting for democracy and the blessings it promises.”
Also, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, paid tribute to Pa Adebanjo, describing him as not just a political figure, but a guardian of Yoruba ideals.
South African Police Detain Chidimma Adetshina’s Mother
Anabela Rungo, the mother of Nigerian beauty queen, Chidimma Adetshina has been reportedly arrested in Cape Town over alleged illegal residence in South Africa.
The Department of Home Affairs, Republic of South Africa yesterday issued a notice of detention of Anabela Rungo, which was enforced by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Home Affairs spokesperson, Siya Qoza stated that investigations are ongoing into alleged misrepresentation and fraudulent activities by Rungo.
In September, 2024, Ms. Rungo’s official South African documents were revoked due to an allegation of identity fraud in obtaining citizenship, rendering
her ineligible to reside in the country.
Disregarding the authority’s order, Rungo was reportedly residing in Cape Town with Chidimma’s sibling, using her Mozambican passport.
Since contesting in the South African beauty pageantry, Chidimma constantly faced the issue of identity, particularly because of her name, which does not have any root in South Africa but Nigeria.
Chidimma’s identity issue had pushed her towards her dream, when she became Miss Nigeria 2024, after an initial rejection in South Africa.
She went on to become Miss Universe 1st runner up 2024 and Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, representing all African women on the global stage.
“Ooni does not mourn, but rather celebrates the legacy and indelible impact of those who have walked the path of honour and left behind footprints of greatness,” a statement by the Director, Media and Public Affairs to the Oba, Mr Moses Olafare, said yesterday.
Also, NADECO said it has lost a gem and kingmaker in the death of Chief Adebanjo.
A NADECO chieftain, Chief Ayo Opadokun, who led an eight-man delegation
on a condolence visit to the Adebanjo family, said that the group would continue to mourn the elder statesman.
Addressing newsmen, Opadokun said that Adebanjo, as at the time of his exit from the terrestrial divide, was the oldest member of the defunct Action Group (AG).
He said Adebanjo was one of the first provincial organising secretaries of AG, led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Similarly, a non-partisan,
socio-political and economic development-oriented organisation, Anya-Ndi-Igbo, has extolled the virtues of Pa Adebanjo, leader of Yoruba group, Afenifere.
In a statement yesterday signed by Anya-Ndi-Igbo’s BoT chair, Dr. Uma Eleazu; Anya-Ndi-Igbo President, Mr. Chris Okoye and others, AnyaNdi-Igbo said Adebanjo was a detribalised Nigerian who cared about common good rather than personal enrichment.
The Igbo group noted that he advocated for justice, equity, collaboration and sound judgement.
“God blessed him with a long life. He used it to do God’s work by speaking the truth without being compelled or induced to.
“Chief Adebanjo had earned his pips and could have remained silent or out-source his position, but remained steadfast till God called him over.”
2Baba Spotted Shopping with Natasha after Mother’s Viral Video
Nigerian music legend, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Baba, has sparked further discussions about his relationship with Natasha Osawaru, Deputy Majority Leader of Edo state House of Assembly.
This comes amid concerns from the singer’s family regarding his whereabouts and his involvement with the lawmaker.
A now-viral video shows the pair casually browsing hair products, just days after reports emerged that 2Baba’s
family had filed a petition with the Department of State Services (DSS), claiming he had gone missing.
His mother, Rose Idibia, also made a public appeal, urging Natasha to distance herself from the singer, especially since his divorce from Annie Idibia has not been finalized.
The mother, who claimed that her son may not be acting in his right senses, urged the lawmaker to remove the “beads you put on his hand and on his neck”.
“My son is going through
a divorce process, and he is clearly not in his right senses now. I know my son well. That is not him.
“Please Natasha, the beads you put on his hand and on his neck, remove them and free him.”
The new video circulating on social media showed the singer and the lawmaker casually shopping for hair products together.
The controversy follows another viral video from Thursday, in which 2Baba was
seen proposing to Natasha. He was filmed presenting the lawmaker with a ring and sealing their love with a long, tender embrace.
Natasha is the granddaughter of billionaire Gabriel Igbinedion. She is a politician and member of the Edo State House of Assembly representing the Egor Constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The lawmaker was elected in April 2023 and is from the Egor Local Government Area of Edo State.
Matawalle: Canada’s Decision to Deny
Military
Officers Visa a ‘Serious Affront’ to Nigeria’s Dignity
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has described the decision of Canadian authorities to deny visas to Nigerian military leaders as a “serious affront” on the country’s dignity.
During an event in Abuja on Thursday, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, had expressed displeasure at the Canadian High Commission for denying the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and other army chiefs visas.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” the NSA said.
In a statement issued yesterday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence, Sunday Iyogun, Matawalle criticised the Canadian authorities for the treatment of the Nigerian delegation.
The minister said Nigeria must not take a passive stance on the development, adding that there was need to investigate the reasons for the visa denial.
“This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity,” he said.
“If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively.”
Similarly, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,
had stated that denying a visa to a high-ranking official was disrespectful to the entire country.
“As much as we are not ready to dabble into the sovereignty or sovereign issues of other nations, issues of visas or the issue of migration management is a sovereign matter and the right of every country.
“As much as we don’t want to dabble into that, it is not a disrespect to the Chief of Defence Staff; to me, without knowing the facts, it is disrespectful to the country, and it is disrespectful to us as a people,” he stated.
The military leaders were to travel to Canada for an event organised to honour
war veterans but their visa applications were rejected.
The development elicited varied reactions on and off social media.
On Friday, the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria said it would not comment on the circumstances around the issue.
However, according to a report, the officers were denied visas because their applications contained a diplomatic error.
A Nigerian government source disclosed that the errors were made by the desk officer who filed the visa application. The report also stated that the government had begun working with the embassy to resolve the issue.
Peter Uzoho
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
L-R: Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; and Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, perusing a document during the state executive council meeting at the Government House in Asaba…recently.
DELIVERING DEMOCRACY DIVIDENDS...
L-R: Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Eno Umo; his Bayelsa State counterpart, Senator Douye Diri; Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere; and Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Moses Teibowei, during the inauguration of Road Two in the New Yenagoa City…yesterday
CBN Defends New Policy on ATM Cash Withdrawals, Says It’s Mutually Beneficial to Banks, Customers
James Emejo in Abuja
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has defended its recently announced policy imposing charges on cash withdrawal by customers from
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) of banks other than theirs, saying it is mutually beneficial to the banks and their customers.
CBN’s Acting Director of the Financial Policy and Regulation
Department, John Onojah, stated this yesterday during a television programme.
He said with the implementation of the new policy, the complaints of shortage of cash at bank ATMs will
be a thing of the past, while banks will be helped to recover costs on the other hand.
“We have gotten the commitment of the banks to ensure that you don’t go to the ATMs and be told that
NNPC Refutes Viral Video Claiming Its Petrol is Inferior to Dangote Refinery’s Product
Takes 15% equity stake in Starzs Gas CNG mother station
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has described a claim in a viral video posted on social media that its petrol was inferior to those refined by rival Dangote Refinery as false and misleading.
This is just as the state-owned national oil company, through its subsidiary, NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML) has agreed to take a 15-per cent equity shareholding in Starzs Gas Limited’s two million standard cubic feet per day (2mmscf/d) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) mother station in Iwhrekan, Ugheli South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State.
NNPCL in a statement issued yesterday by its Chief Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye said the assertions in the video were baseless.
In the video, a man was seen conducting a “comparison test” with petrol, which he claimed to have purchased from NNPC and Dangote outlets. In the end, the Dangote petrol was said to have lasted 30 minutes longer.
But Soneye said the man’s “assertion is baseless and entirely unfounded, originating from unverified and amateur research that lacks credibility, accuracy, and professional oversight.
“NNPC Limited reaffirms that its fuel is carefully formulated with one
of the best compositions, ensuring optimal efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability for consumers.
“Furthermore, it is important to emphasise that a significant percentage of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold at NNPC retail stations in Lagos—where this deceptive video was created—is sourced from the Dangote Refinery, a strategic partner in promoting local production and energy security. Dangote Refinery adheres to strict industry standards, guaranteeing the quality of petroleum products supplied to our consumers”.
He held that “this misleading video represents yet another desperate attempt by economic saboteurs to misinform the public and tarnish
NNPC Limited’s reputation. We will not tolerate deliberate misinformation designed to undermine our operations and mislead Nigerians”.
Soneye warned that “henceforth, NNPC Limited will take firm legal action against individuals or groups who intentionally spread falsehoods about our brand and operations.
Those engaged in such malicious activities will be held fully accountable under the law.
“We urge the public to disregard such fabricated content and rely on verified sources for accurate information. NNPC Ltd remains steadfast in its mission to ensure fuel availability, affordability, and quality for all Nigerians while maintaining global industry standards,” he added.
In Addis Ababa, Nigeria’s First Lady Elected Member of OAFLAD Steering Committee
Abuja
The wife of Nigeria’s President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been elected member, Steering Committee of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), the highest decision-making body of the organisation.
Her election, according to a statement issued yesterday by her media assistant, Busola Kukoyi, took place during the ongoing 29th Ordinary General Assembly of the organisation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on the sideline of the 38th African Union Summit Ordinary Session. Mrs Tinubu joined the eight-
member Steering Committee as one of the two members representing West Africa.
Other member-nations elected include: Sierra Leone whose First Lady is the new President of the Organisation; Angola, whose First Lady is the Vice President; as well as Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea and Congo.
She will serve in the new position for a two-year tenure.
The First Lady, who is already a strong voice within OAFLAD, is expected to further carry the torch of the organisation, driving its advocacy initiatives towards the realization of its 2025-2030 Strategic Framework.
there is no money. We have ensured that when you get to the bank, at least we have set a minimum of N20,000 that you can withdraw at your wish,” Onojah said.
“The third one is to say that even in remote locations, you will have machines that are there, not on the bank premises. Then on the side of the banks, deploying machines is quite expensive; they are capitalintensive; I wouldn’t tell you how much it costs a bank to deploy just one machine.
“And so, we need to be able to encourage them to at least do what we call cost recovery. It is a balanced circular that came out. While we look at the side of the bank, at least they should be able to recover their cost, we also want to ensure that the consumer to the bank at any point in time, has access to cash.”
Onojah reiterated that the charges are only for withdrawals from other banks' ATMs, adding that there are no costs for customers any time they withdraw money from ATMs owned
by financial institutions that they bank with.
The CBN in a circular on Tuesday to all banks and financial institutions announced that customers withdrawing from the ATMs of other banks would now be charged N100 per every N20,000.
“The three free monthly withdrawals allowed for remoteon-us (other bank’s customers/ not-on-us consumers) in Nigeria under Section 10.6.2 of the Guide shall no longer apply,” the circular partly read.
The CBN directed banks and other financial institutions to apply the following charges with effect from March 1, 2025.
The CBN said for off-site ATMs - automated teller machines not on a bank’s premises – like those at shopping malls, eateries and other public places — a surcharge of not more than N500 per every N20,000 will apply in addition to the statutory N100 fee for withdrawals by customers of other banks’ ATMs.
Soludo: Those Condemning
Agunechemba are Supporters of Criminals in Anambra
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, has described those condemning the Agunechemba security outfit as supporters and accomplices of kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminals in the state.
Soludo said this yesterday at the funeral mass for the late Justice Azuka, the slain Labour Party (LP) member, who represented Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Present at the ceremony were the party’s presidential candidate
in the last election; Mr Peter Obi; Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), Senator Tony Nwoye (Anambra North), and Hon. Emeka Idu (Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency), among others.
During his remarks, Governor Soludo promised to ensure that the family of the late lawmaker did not lack anything. He said: “They murdered Justice and we will give them justice. No two ways about it.
“We are so shocked by the way the youths of these days are taking human lives.
Deji Elumoye in
Peter Uzoho
SIXTY HEARTY CHEERS...
House Kicks as Binance’s Gambaryan Insists $150m Bribery Allegation against Lawmakers True
Ejiofor
Alike
The House of Representatives has advised the public to be guided by verified information regarding the $150 million bribery allegation against three of its members by the head of financial crime for cryptocurrency giant, Binance, Tigran Gambaryan before taking a position on the matter.
This is just as Gambaryan has maintained that the $150million bribery allegation he levelled against three members of the House – Ginger Onwusibe, Philip Agbese, and Peter Akpanke - was true.
Gambaryan had on Friday alleged that some members of the House of Representatives demanded a $150million bribe from him during a meeting in Abuja to halt an investigation
into the activities of his company. His claims were, however, dismissed by the federal government.
The allegation was also debunked by both Agbese and Onwusibe in separate press statements, vowing to use the instrument of the law to clear their names.
In its official reaction yesterday via a statement signed by the Spokesman, Akin Rotimi, the House urged the public not to allow itself to be swayed by what it called “Recycled claims,” targeted at Nigerian institutions and public servants.
The statement noted that the House remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“The Honourable members have
To Boost Food Security, Tinubu Approves Expansion of 12 River Basins
Segun James
President Bola Tinubu has approved billions of Naira for the expansion of 12 River Basin projects across the country to boost irrigation farming and ensure food security.
The Director of Finance, Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Musa Kwankwaso, made the disclosure in a statement yesterday.
He said that the approval was a clear indication of President Tinubu’s commitment to the development of the country, especially the North, through agricultural development.
Kwankwaso explained that the approval for the expansion of the River Basins would boost food production and address hunger and starvation across the country.
He commended the Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Kabir Bichi, who ensured that the budget for the revitalisation of the River Basins was approved.
Kwankwaso said that the position of Bichi on the budget approval clearly shows that he is standing with President Tinubu and together they would be reelected in 2027.
He explained further that the revitalisation of the River Basins would boost irrigation farming and make Nigeria self-sufficient in food production.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and for also allocating N150 billion in the 2025 Appropriation bill for the construction of a railway line in Kano City,” he said.
assured the House leadership that they never had any such dealings as reported. One of the members has already instituted legal action to clear his name, while others affected have been encouraged to do the same in pursuit of justice and the protection of their reputations.”
The statement also said: “It is also important to highlight that, with the active involvement of both the Nigerian and United States governments, this matter has evolved into a governmentto-government engagement. Notably, in the course of high-level diplomatic discussions, the Federal Government of Nigeria has prioritised national interest over external commercial pressure,
including rejecting financial settlement offers from Binance.
“These facts raise serious questions about the credibility and intent of the allegations being peddled.”
The House further noted that with the matter already before a court of competent jurisdiction and remains the subject of ongoing diplomatic engagements, it will refrain from further comment in line with established parliamentary, judicial, and diplomatic principles.
But Gambaryan yesterday stood by his allegation, insisting that all that happened was nothing but the truth.
Reacting on his verified “X” page, he said: “Many requested that I stay
on and provide further commentary on the issues I posted about yesterday. Here’s the hard truth: What I shared was meant to fill in the gaps left by Wired and NPR’s reporting.
“The reality is that last year was incredibly painful for me and my family. I dedicated my life to fighting crime as a Special Agent with the United States Department of the Treasury and as a compliance professional.
“It was an honour to serve my country and it was a blessing that they came to my rescue and mobilised the full force of the US government when I was in need. Being dragged through court on outrageous, baseless,
and trumped-up charges didn’t just hurt me—it also brought immense pain to my family.
“I don’t want to see my kids cry because I’m not around. I don’t want to see videos of my 75-year-old mother on television in tears. I don’t want to see my wife crying on TV. I want to put this nightmare behind me and move on.
“What I shared was factual, based on my personal experiences and conversations with those who have direct knowledge of the events I discussed. Information that was shared with both Nigerian and US law enforcement. So please, allow me to leave this behind and find peace.
Ondo PDP, APC Disagree on Admissibility of Appeal Court Verdict in Election Tribunal
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have disagreed over the admissibility of an Appeal Court judgment in the ongoing petition before the Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.
The disagreement followed the APC and its candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s, attempt to tender in evidence the judgment of the Appeal Court, Akure Division, at yesterday’s resumed sitting of the tribunal on in Akure.
The Appeal Court, Akure Division, delivered its judgment on January 28, which dismissed a pre-election appeal filed by the PDP and its governorship candidate, Mr. Agboola Ajayi.
The Appellants had challenged the judgment of the state High Court, which held that Aiyedatiwa and his running mate, Olayide Adelami, were qualified to
contest the November 16, 2024, governorship election.
The PDP and Ajayi had held that Aiyedatiwa and Adelami were ineligible to contest the election on the grounds that the latter presented an alleged forged certificate.
The lead counsel to APC at the tribunal, Mr Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), argued that the petitioners, PDP and Ajayi, had caused a constitutional impediment by filing the issue of disqualification in its grounds in the petition when an Appeal Court decision had struck it out.
“There is a constitutional impediment created by them, the PDP, and not by us. It will be a sheer waste of judicial resources to open a trial on this matter. If we proceed, it means we are not obeying the Appeal Court verdict.
“Relying on Section 287, SubSection 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, there is nothing to
After Tightly Contested Election, Djibouti’s Mahamoud Youssouf Elected AU Commission Chair
Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Youssouf, has been elected as the new chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission.
Youssouf won yesterday’s election after seven rounds of voting by the union’s 49 member states. He won the election with 33 votes in the final round, constituting the required two-thirds. The tightly contested race saw Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister, and Richard Randriamandrato, Madagascar’s former Economy and Finance and Foreign Affairs Minister, vie for the AU top position. However, Youssouf secured
a win in the final voting round.
The multilingual politician who speaks Arabic, English, and French was perceived as an outside shot compared to fellow contenders from larger African nations.
The Djiboutian replaces Moussa Faki of Chad, who has held the AU chairperson position for eight years.
He is expected to steer the AU through complex issues around peace and security, trade, and institutional reforms while advocating for Africa’s position on the global stage.
The minister previously said that as commission chairman, “peace and security” would be his priority.
execute here.
“It is more annoying repeating the same thing here after losing in the Appeal Court. We should not allow the petitioners to convince the tribunal to disobey the constitution,” he said.
The APC’s counsel added that it would either be the petitioners withdrawing their petition or waiting for the outcome of their appeal at the Supreme Court.
Earlier, the PDP’s counsel, Mr Bankole Akomolafe (SAN), had withdrawn one of their reliefs calling for fresh election but left that of disqualification of the APC candidate and his running mate,
accused of certificate forgery, in the petition.
Akomolafe, who responded to the application of the APC, posited that the cited section of the constitution should not be read in isolation. He said that the tribunal was bound, stating that he did not envisage any stay of proceedings.
The counsel to the PDP cited Sections 285 and 286, which empowered the tribunal to allow all objections and issues raised for consideration.
The chairman of the panel, Justice Benson Ogbu, said that the tribunal would rule on the application at its final judgment.
Zelensky Rejects Trump-led Deal with US on Minerals
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, yesterday said he had blocked a Donald Trump-led deal that would give the United States access to vast amounts of Ukrainian natural resources as it lacked “security guarantees” for Kyiv and “does not protect us”.
Trump, a businessman and leader highly critical of the money
Washington has sent to Ukraine to fight Russia’s invasion, has pushed for access to rare earths in Ukraine.
Zelensky’s announcement came a day after Ukrainian officials gave the US a draft of the agreement and three days after Trump called Russia’s Vladimir Putin, with Europe and Kyiv alarmed the pair will try to
end the conflict without them.
“The agreement is signed at the ministerial level. But I am the president and I will have an impact on the quality of this document. That is why I did not allow ministers to sign the agreement because it is not ready,” Zelensky told journalists at the Munich Security Conference.
“In my opinion, it does not protect us. It is not ready to protect us, our interests,” he added.
“It must be written out legally, correctly, and it is an investment… If all this is connected with security guarantees. I don’t see this connection in the document yet,” he said
Fidelis David in Akure
L-R: Chairman, Sound Prince International Company Limited, Evang Paulinus Ugochukwu; the celebrant and Chief Executive Officer, LI-Link International Limited, Chief Linus Anyaba; his wife and Director, LI-Link International Limited, Mrs. Veronica Anyaba; President-General, International Market Amalgamated, Ojo Alaba, Chief Camilus Amajuoyi; and Chairman, O.C.I International Limited, Sir Sunny Igboanuzue, at the 60th birthday celebrations of Chief Linus in Festac Town, Lagos …yesterday
Soaring Rents Squeeze Workers in Lagos, Other Urban Hubs
Festus Akanbi, in this report, captures the severity of the housing crisis which has pushed rent beyond the reach of hardworking citizens in urban centres like Lagos and Abuja
The relentless surge in house rents across urban centres, especially Lagos, has become an unyielding storm, mercilessly sweeping through the lives of residents with crushing force.
Once a city of dreams, Lagos now teeters on the edge of a housing crisis, where rent hikes soar beyond the reach of hardworking citizens. The middle class is shrinking under the weight of exorbitant rents, forcing many to retreat to distant outskirts, enduring gruelling hours in chaotic traffic just to make a living.
For those who can’t escape to the fringes, desperation leads to makeshift shelters under bridges, where survival is a daily battle against insecurity, filth, and hopelessness. The frustration boils over as landlords, emboldened by unchecked greed, hike rents at will, leaving tenants scrambling for survival in a city where affording a roof over one’s head is becoming a privilege rather than a right.
Finding Shelter Under Lagos Bridges
Caught in this web of uncertainty, frustration, and hopelessness, some Lagos residents were forced to live in squalor, not minding the safety implications of their desperation to live in the city at all costs.
Take for instance, last year, the Lagos State government went ahead to dislodge some people in about 86 partitioned rooms, some measuring 10×10 and others 10×12, of makeshift apartments under the Dolphin Estate Bridge, who claimed to be tenants and had been paying N250,000 yearly to criminals who posed as landlords. According to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the move is ongoing for the removal of illegal structures in line with the provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Management Law.
The exercise was extended to Ijora Causeway Bridge and the Lagos Blue Rail Line where it continued with the evacuation of squatters following the lapse of eviction notice. Reports said illegal occupants under the Eko Bridge in the Ebute-Ero area of Lagos Island who were recently ejected by operatives of the Lagos
Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) are yet to vacate the place. Many of the people have refused to relocate weeks after their forced eviction.
A recent report by BuyLetLive reveals that approximately 98.5% of Lagos residents live in rented apartments, driven by economic pressures such as rising inflation, volatile exchange rates, and the high cost of property ownership. The report highlights that the demand for rental properties is particularly strong in affordable areas like Yaba, Surulere, and Gbagada, yet the supply remains insufficient, contributing to a housing deficit of over three million units in Lagos State.
High Rental Costs
The high cost of land, building materials, and mortgage rates make homeownership unattainable for many, forcing residents, especially migrants and lower-income individuals, to remain tenants. Renting offers flexibility, affordability, and proximity to workplaces, making it the preferred option for the majority of residents. Despite the increasing demand for rentals, the shortage of available housing has led to significant increases in rental costs, with even small apartments commanding high prices. Over the past five years, rents in Lagos have surged by 91.32%, exacerbating the challenge of finding affordable housing.
Experts warned that the rising rental prices across Lagos and other urban centres in Nigeria, unmatched by similar increases in incomes, pose significant economic and social challenges for residents and particularly squeeze the middle and lower classes.
They said the disparity between soaring rents and stagnant salaries could lead to more significant problems such as increased homelessness and a surge in demand for affordable housing, which is already scarce in Lagos.
said, “From here, in a space of three years, the rent rose from N250,000 to N850,000. This was the reason we relocated to Idimu where we paid, by our first year, N450,000 per annum for a three-bedroom apartment. But, with more influx of people from places like Surulere, Ilupeju, Gbagada, and others, which are classified as middle-class locations, rent rose significantly to over a million,” he narrated.
He explained that by January 2023, a two-bedroom apartment in a nearby rural neighbourhood was renting for just N500,000 per annum. But in the last six months, rent for the same size apartment has jumped to between N1 million and N1.2 million.
Another Lagos resident, Mr. Kolawole Johnson lives in Okota, along Ago Palace Way, where, according to him, rent has jumped so high that a two-bedroom apartment now goes for between N2million and N2.5million while the three-bedroom apartment is priced between N3million and N3.5million depending on the age of the house.
“As we speak, you can hardly get land for sale in this area in the primary market. All the land there has been sold out and whatever is available is in the secondary market, which is why the prices are so high. It is the same story for commercial properties. Shops are hard to come by and where you find one, it is pricey,” he added.
Meanwhile, a 2020 Pison Housing Report put Lagos’ housing deficit at three million units. This shows that millions of residents in the state could be homeless.
An estate surveyor and valuer with A. A. Babarinde & Co., a Lagos-based real estate firm, Adepetu Emmanuel, was quoted as saying that rising rents in Lagos are primarily due to a significant influx of individuals from other states and rural regions seeking better opportunities.
He noted that this mass migration into Lagos intensifies the demand for housing, consequently driving up rental costs as landlords and property owners charge higher rents due to the competition for living spaces.
A stakeholder in the property business, Mr. Kennedy Anene admitted that Lagos state has been experiencing rapid growth and there has
been a tremendous demand for land, which is an essential component for every urban development and growth, adding that the increased rate of individuals and corporate needs in major parts of Lagos to another has therefore generated a high demand for land development.
According to him, “The high cost of acquiring land has also affected the rate of development in terms of adequate residential accommodation but gives more possibility for joint venture partnership.”
High Cost of Building Materials
Some property agents attributed the surge in house rent to the corresponding high cost of building materials which has slowed down new construction in most parts of the country. Therefore a slowdown in new construction amidst increasing demand for housing and infrastructure development due to population growth and urbanisation are the excuses for the surge in house rent in Lagos and other urban centres like Abuja, Portharcourt, Ibadan, Awka, Onitsha, and Kano. This surge in demand has put pressure on the limited supply of building materials, leading to price hikes.
Ahmed Tijani, a Kogi indigene based in Lagos complained that although he had to rent a two-bedroom flat in Ojodu Berger to avoid the prohibitive cost of rent on the highland where he works, the recent increase by his landlord has made nonsense of his cost-cutting measures.
“There’s no hiding place anymore for lowincome earners in this city. My first place of dwelling in this city was Surulere, where I first lived in a two-bedroom apartment and later upgraded to a three-bedroom flat after I got married and subsequently had children. My rent at the time was N250,000 per year. He said he decided to move to Ojodu when his landlord increased his rent to N500,000.
“It is painful that costs and rents are rising almost daily when our incomes as workers remain static,” he lamented.
To reduce rent and address the housing deficit in Lagos and Nigeria, the government should implement mass social housing projects, incentivise private sector investments, and improve mortgage accessibility.
A tenant who lives in the Obawole area of Ogba, Lagos who spoke with THISDAY
A housing estate in Lagos
As Non-enforcement of Content Law Hurts Indigenous Investments in Oil and Gas Sector
The relaxation of the full enforcement of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development act of 2010 following the signing of three executive orders by President bola Tinubu in February 2024 to streamline local content compliance requirements in the oil and gas sector, especially on new investments in the deepwater, is hurting local operators, and fuelling job losses as indigenous manpower and facilities are being sidelined in favour of foreign yards, Ejiofor Alike writes
One of the three executive orders – Presidential Directive on Local Content Compliance requirements, 2024 – signed by President bola Tinubu on February 28, 2024, was intended to streamline the local content compliance requirements in oil and gas projects, especially in deepwater.
The other two presidential directives - Oil and Gas Companies (Tax Incentives, exemption, remission, etc.) Order, 2024, and the Presidential Directive on reduction of Petroleum Sector Contracting Costs and Timelines, 2024 - introduced tax incentives, and reduced contracting costs and timelines.
unfortunately, the Presidential Directive on Local Content Compliance requirements relaxed the full enforcement of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) act of 2010 and practically gave the International Oil Companies (IOCs) a freehand to import materials from abroad even when there is sufficient in-country capacity. under the guise of addressing practical challenges such as insufficient in-country capacity, the presidential directive stripped the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring board (NCDMb) of the power to sanction IOCs or strong Nigerian independent companies that flout the NOGICD Act by importing coated pipes and other materials.
The NOGICD act mandates operators in the Nigerian oil and gas industry to utilise indigenous manpower and local facilities to execute a certain scope of oil and gas projects for which there is indigenous capacity.
The Act seeks to curb capital flight and ensure that a large chunk of the yearly expenditure in oil and gas is retained in the Nigerian economy.
Its enforcement had encouraged indigenous players to make huge investments in building local capacity and capability.
but in a desperate move to accede to the demand of the IOCs, the presidential directive failed to address the key concerns of the indigenous providers of services and facilities.
For instance, in violation of the NOGICD act, the directive did not prohibit IOCs or influential local players from importing coated pipes, thereby encouraging capital flight.
THISDay gathered that this has left local pipeline coating companies vulnerable, with many facing the risk of permanent closure.
The resulting job losses and decline in local investments will potentially weaken the Nigerian economy and hurt the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country.
according to some of the indigenous players who gathered at the just concluded Sub-Saharan africa International Petroleum exhibition and Conference (SaIPeC) hosted by the Petroleum Technology association of Nigeria (PeTaN) in Lagos, the failure to enforce the NOGICD act is jeopardising millions of dollars in local investments and also triggering widespread job losses,
THISDay gathered that indigenous pipe coating companies that have developed the capacity to deliver globally competitive jobs are increasingly being sidelined in favour of foreign firms.
The NOGICD act prohibits the operators from importing materials that are produced in Nigeria unless the in-country capacity is insufficient to meet the industry demand.
However, the presidential directive has relaxed the implementation of the act.
This has left pipeline coating companies and other indigenous providers of materials and
services struggling to survive, with many on the brink of collapse.
While the NCDMb, the agency responsible for enforcing the NOGICD act, has been accused of approving contracts that bypass local companies in favour of foreign firms, particularly in high-value projects, a source close to the agency told THISDay that the presidential executive order tied the hands of the agency.
This trend has resulted in significant job losses and a decline in local investments.
Speaking on the issue, a member of PeTaN, who preferred to remain anonymous stated that the non-enforcement of the Nigerian Content act started before Tinubu came to power, citing the ongoing ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (aKK) gas pipeline project.
according to him, local pipe coating companies pursued the project up to the bureau of Public enterprises (bPe) but were told that the China engineering and Construction Corporation (CeCC) had won the bid as part of Nigeria’s loan agreements with China.
“We were told that the project was given to China engineering as a way to compensate China for the loans Nigeria took. In such a case, what do you do? you can’t go to court because if you do, they will frustrate your company,” he said.
It was learnt that sidelining local firms has led to the loss of thousands of jobs in the pipe coating industry, with many skilled workers left unemployed.
This has further exacerbated the challenges faced by indigenous companies. another member of PeTaN, who spoke to THISDay also accused the federal government of granting importation licenses to local firms to bring in coated pipes, to the detriment
of Nigerian pipeline coating companies.
“The federal government gave notable local firms the license to import these coated pipes; so, what are we talking about?” he queried.
He noted that while the NOGICD act was designed to boost local capacity and industrial development, foreign firms and some portfolio local investors have continued to fabricate and coat pipes outside Nigeria, undermining the Nigerian Content law’s intent.
“If it’s only the NOGICD act that’s not being followed, then there’s no problem. but the truth is that the government does not respect its laws. If it did, we wouldn’t be where we are today as a country,” he added.
beyond the government’s culpability and regulatory failures, industry players point to significant infrastructural and economic constraints that hinder local firms’ competitiveness.
Some of the indigenous players acknowledged that it is often cheaper to fabricate and import coated pipes than to produce them in Nigeria due to high energy costs, poor infrastructure, and security risks.
“energy remains a major challenge. Manufacturers rely on diesel to power their plants, and the rising cost of diesel makes local production expensive. Transportation is another issue, as terrible road conditions make it difficult to move coated pipes across the country. even transporting by sea is risky due to insecurity in Nigerian waterways,” one of the local operators explained. according to him, these challenges have forced many local companies to downsize their operations, leading to further job losses.
The inability to compete with foreign firms has also discouraged new investments in the sector, stifling growth and innovation.
Nigeria is home to several pipeline coating firms with the technical expertise and infrastructure to handle major projects both onshore and offshore.
Solewant Nigeria Limited, Iron Products Industries, Harrybeat International Services Limited, Pipe Coaters Nigeria Limited, and
Monarch alloys Limited are some of the major companies that have executed globally competitive projects.
THISDAY, however, gathered these firms are being sidelined in favour of foreign firms due to non-enforcement of the NOGICD act.
To protect the local companies in the face of the presidential directive, some of the industry stakeholders have urged the government to take decisive action to enforce the NOGICD act. They emphasise that beyond regulatory compliance, the government must address underlying issues such as high energy costs, poor infrastructure, and insecurity.
For Nigerian Content to succeed, the federal government must create an enabling environment by making energy affordable and readily available.
There is also a need for greater transparency and accountability in contract approvals, while the NCDMb and other agencies must ensure compliance with Nigerian Content laws.
With the oil and gas sector remaining a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, failure to address these challenges could lead to massive job losses and the collapse of local businesses in the oil and gas sector.
There is need for an urgent review of contract approvals and stronger government commitment to ensuring that Nigerian firms receive a fair share of the oil and gas industry’s multibillion-dollar investments.
Indigenous oil and gas service providers, under the umbrella of PeTaN, had demanded that contracts worth $1.5 billion be awarded to local firms from Shell’s $5 billion Bonga North Project as a further proof of the country’s seriousness in promoting local content in the industry.
Chairman of PeTaN, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, made the demand last Tuesday in Lagos, during his welcome address at the opening ceremony of SaIPeC 2025.
Ogunsanya said the $1.5 billion represented just 25 per cent of the cost of the bonga North project.
Deepwater oil project
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A VOTE FOR UBA SANI
The Kaduna State governor is instilling a renewed sense of hope in a region that has long been plagued by conflict and marginalisation, argues EDWARD HASSAN TAYIIKI
See Page 20
ROBERT reckons that our state of mind influences our dreams
See Page 20
opinion@thisdaylive.com
President Trump’s policies hold lessons in curbing waste and corruption,
contends
ABIODUN KOMOLAFE
TRUMP SHOULD BE A WAKE-UP CALL
President Donald Trump of the United States of America is a creation of time. The key point is not in changing America. Instead, Trump is revealing America as it is! The America that we knewrepresented by F.D. Roosevelt, J.F. Kennedy and Jimmy Carter - was perhaps just a fleeting moment or a facade. Trump’s presidency has exposed the underlying realities of the country, making it clear that the perceived America was not entirely genuine.
Trump epitomizes the body and the spirit of the White conquest of Native Americans, which is reflected in his immigration policy. On the surface, his policy aims to eliminate illegal immigrants, criminal gangs and narcotics dealers. However, in reality, Trump, as POTUS, and his supporters are pursuing a Whites-only immigration agenda, similar to the one once employed by Australia, which has now been discarded. The response to South Africa’s land reforms is clearly in this direction.
Trump’s offer to allow White South Africans to immigrate to the US as refugees is disquieting, especially since this opportunity wasn’t extended to Palestinians or other groups. But then, this move isn’t surprising, given the long-standing discussions in the US about repopulating sparsely populated states like Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. The president seems to view this as a chance to appeal to those who fear losing their demographic majority.
Not everything is wrong with Trump! For instance, his administration’s costeffective unit aimed at reducing waste and inefficiency in government aligns with the recommendations of Nigeria’s Oronsaye Report, which was submitted in 2012. It’s ironic that Trump is implementing reforms that Nigeria should have undertaken years ago. This highlights Nigeria’s slow pace in addressing its own inefficiencies. Importantly, while Trump’s policies, such as dismantling USAID and the Department of Education, are not entirely commendable, his focus on cost-efficient units could serve as a catalyst for Nigeria to revisit and implement the Oronsaye Report’s recommendations.
Similarly, Nigeria seems to expect the US, under Trump’s leadership, to take responsibility for recovering its stolen wealth. However, if the US Department of Justice is no longer pursuing cases against individuals who have looted Nigeria’s treasury and stashed the funds in the US, it raises questions about Nigeria’s own role in addressing corruption. Ultimately, the issue reveals the shape and size of a deeper problem: why does Nigeria have such weak institutions that billions of dollars can be easily embezzled and laundered abroad?
So, Trump’s actions should be a wakeup call for us to “padlock the stable doors” to prevent the horse from bolting. It’ll be in our interest not to allow other countries to capture the horse which has fled because we refused to padlock the stable doors. Padlocking the stable doors should have involved setting up a congressional budget office to monitor and police a budget process since 1999. That this was not done and it’s not about to be done shows a complete and utter
lack of seriousness in our curbing waste and corruption.
In addition, the refusal to use a performance planning budgeting system, first proposed by the late Omowale Kuye as the Director General of Budget in 1983, reveals a lackadaisical attitude towards budget and project management and implementation. So, no one can, or should, hold Trump responsible for Nigeria’s ineptitude.
Trump and his supporters had a clear agenda, Project 2025, which became public knowledge before his presidential nomination. Since his tariff policies would likely have far-reaching effects on Nigeria, Nigeria should have prepared countermeasures in case he won, but did we? Were we fully prepared for the impact of his presidency? Canada was well-prepared, and swiftly responded to Trump’s policies. In contrast, Nigeria’s history shows it was once adept at preparing for economic challenges, such as the 1967 devaluation of the British pound sterling. But not anymore! Again, the question remains, where did we lose the plot and what’s next for Nigeria? Now, Nigeria faces brain drain, with doctors leaving the country daily. Was that also caused by Trump? Ours isn’t just a matter of sensible or senseless governance; it’s a result of successive governments failing to effectively communicate with the people. They’ve either used the wrong channels or struggled to convey their message, leaving a gaping hole in their connection with the electorate. Consequently, governments are often caught off guard, scrambling to respond to issues that could have been addressed through proper communication.
The prosperity of the developed world was built on the exploitation and suffering of Black slaves. Unfortunately, the legacy of colonialism and slavery continues to haunt us, with the scars of pillage, human trafficking and forced labour still evident. Iconic symbols of power, such as the White House, were constructed on the backs of enslaved Africans. Similarly, the Arab world’s economy flourished thanks to Mansa
Musa’s wealth and the trans-Saharan trade. Yet, despite these historical contributions, the Black world remains economically and socially shackled.
The Bible and Koran, scriptures that advocate for compassion, justice and humility, now serve as a stark contrast to the hypocrisy of their proponents. Colonial powers, who claimed to represent Christianity, exploited our resources, enslaved our people, and treated them as commodities rather than human beings.
As we reflect on Nigeria’s economic challenges, it is essential to consider the importance of informed leadership. The story of the Pharaoh “which knew not Joseph” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignorance and the importance of informed leadership. As if two wrongs have equaled a right, the actions of Pharaoh and Trump share a common thread - both leaders sought to maintain power and control over perceived threats. Pharaoh viewed the Israelites as a danger to his authority, while Trump has portrayed undocumented immigrants as a threat to national security and American jobs.
Ancient civilizations also offer valuable lessons in leadership. In Greece, for instance, Oedipus Rex serves as a moral lesson about the dangers of hubris and ignorance. Likewise, India’s Mahabharata tells the story of the blind king, Dhritarashtra, who ignored wise counsel and led his kingdom to ruin. China’s concept of ‘Mandate of Heaven’ emphasizes the importance of morally just leadership. Conversely, Africa’s ‘Ubuntu’ philosophy prioritizes community and interconnectedness. It highlights the need for leaders to consider the well-being of all people, not just their own constituents. This concept is often cited as a counterpoint to Trump’s ‘America First’ ideology.
Now that Trump has declared war on everybody, it might be a unique opportunity for Nigeria to take control of our economic destiny and build an economy based on self-reliance and the search for export-oriented, value-added policies in order to balance its books, end the perennial current accounts deficits and smash the mould of boom-to-bust cycles. Even as he continues to defy conventions and push the boundaries of executive power, dear country should learn from its history and leverage the population dynamics of countries like the United States and India to create a more sustainable and resilient economy.
The Chinese ideograph for CRISIS is, on one side, Danger, and, on the other side, Opportunity. Essentially therefore, Trump’s second coming presents a fantastic opportunity for Nigerians. We should seize it with both hands. We shouldn’t ask other countries to do for us what we are expected to do for ourselves. In a word, failure to have a coherent response to Trump’s ‘wahala’ only means that Nigeria will continue to move, irresistibly, in the direction of boom-to-bust, underperformance and underachievement, with more Nigerians sliding into poverty. And that will be sad!
Komolafe writes from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State
DREAMING DREAMS A VOTE FOR UBA SANI
The Kaduna State governor is instilling a renewed sense of hope in a region that has long been plagued by conflict and marginalisation, argues EDWARD HASSAN TAYIIKI
Though 2027 may still be some 24 months away, the people of Southern Kaduna have certainly found a new choice, a new direction and a new hope in Governor Uba Sani. And this is not by any means accidental nor is it a chance occurrence.
Governor Uba Sani, in his almost two years in the saddle, has literally broken down ‘ancient barriers’ built around ethnoreligious, socio-political and geographical cleavages.
Since he took over, the people have watched him in admirable silence and cautious optimism. But all that have now given way to open and warm embrace as notable politicians – former and serving federal lawmakers, state lawmakers, political party administrators, community and religious leaders led their supporters and well-wishers to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and pledged their support and loyalty to Governor Uba Sani and his ruling APC.
His tenure as governor so far, has been marked by a commitment to justice, equity, and fairness, breaking down the barriers that have historically divided the state into two and bred resentment and bitterness among communities.
The new direction, represented by Governor Uba Sani, not only offers a fresh choice for the people of Southern Kaduna but also instills a renewed sense of hope in a region that has long been plagued by conflict and marginalization.
Governor Uba Sani’s approach to governance is rooted in the principle of inclusivity. He has made it clear that his administration will not discriminate based on ethno-religious, political, or geographical considerations. This is a significant departure from the past, where governance often favored certain groups over others, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement if not total rejection by the government of the day. By prioritizing the needs of all citizens, Governor Uba Sani has fostered a sense of belonging and unity among the diverse populations of Kaduna State.
One of the most notable aspects of Uba Sani’s administration is his commitment to justice. In a region where issues of land disputes, resource allocation, and political representation have historically led to conflict, Governor Uba Sani has taken proactive steps to address these grievances. His administration has established mechanisms for conflict resolution that are transparent and accessible to all citizens. This has not only helped to mitigate tensions but has also empowered communities to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful resolutions to their disputes. Equity is another cornerstone of Uba Sani’s administration. He has recognized that the historical marginalization of Southern Kaduna has created significant disparities in access to resources and opportunities. To address this, Sani has implemented policies aimed at leveling the playing field. For instance, his administration has prioritized infrastructure development in underserved areas, ensuring that all communities have access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and transportation. This commitment to equitable development is a clear signal that Uba Sani is serious about uplifting all citizens, regardless of their background.
Furthermore, Governor Uba Sani’s focus on fairness extends to his administration’s approach to political representation. He has actively sought to include voices from all segments of society in decision-making processes. By engaging with community leaders, youth,
women, and marginalized groups, he has created a more participatory governance model that reflects the diverse interests of Kaduna State’s population. This inclusivity not only enhances the legitimacy of his administration but also fosters a sense of ownership among the people, who feel that their concerns are being heard and addressed.
The impact of Governor Uba Sani’s administration is already being felt across the state and in particular, Southern Kaduna. This new found sense of solidarity is a testament to the governor’s ability to inspire hope and foster collaboration among diverse groups. As the citizens witness tangible improvements in their lives—be it through better roads, improved healthcare facilities, or enhanced educational opportunities— they are increasingly optimistic about the direction in which their state is headed.
It was, therefore, not a thing of surprise that political bigwigs in the state have been dumping their parties and declaring for the APC. Governor Uba Sani on Friday received over 22 political heavyweights from various opposition parties along with their supporters to APC at a zonal rally which held at Kafanchan.
The colourful event held inside the fully packed New Choice Hall and had guests sitting even outside. It had in attendance thousands of APC supporters from Southern Kaduna and political stalwarts from across the state, who collectively passed a vote of confidence on the Governor Uba Sani’s administration.
The roll call of the defectors showed that both serving and former federal legislators as well as lawmakers from Kaduna State House of Assembly, former council chairmen, state party chairmen and flagbearers of sundry opposition parties were involved in the mass defection into the ruling party. Among those who left the leading opposition PDP include Sen Danjuma Laar, the immediate past senator representing zone 3; Godfrey Ali Gaiya, a former House of Representatives member and Hon Ado Dogo Audu, a three-time member of the House of Representatives. Also, the representative of Zangon Kataf/ Jaba Federal Constituency, Amos Gwamna Magaji and Donatus K Mathew, another member of the House of Representatives, representing Kaura federal constituency, also defected to APC.
State legislators like Henry Marah Zakarieh, who represents the good people of Jaba constituency; Samuel Kambai Koza of Zango constituency and Mr Emmanuel Kantiok of Zonkwa constituency all defected to APC.Also, the former council chairman of Jemaa Local Government, Mikiah Tokwak; ex Vice Chairman, Sunday Baba and ex Chairman of Kauru Local Government, Paul Wani are now in the APC.
AZIBAOLA ROBERT reckons that our state of mind influences our dreams
We all dream while asleep. Most of us do not remember that we dreamt at all. Of those who remember, many are hardly able to reconstruct the details and sequence of their dreams. This leaves less than a sizeable number of us who are reliably able to narrate our dreams. Our brains try not to encode details of dreams in our memories, so it doesn’t get clogged with irrelevances.
Humans, and even animals, dream as part of the brain healing and recalibration process while our bodies lie motionless, asleep. What we dream of at any given time is a function of several physical and mental factors which, many times, we rationalize to give our dreams implausible meanings and hold onto them.
At any given time, we fall asleep, our state of mind influences our dreams. So do our sleeping circumstances and the environment in which we sleep. If our body is unwell, for instance, headache, or such other mild or severe illness, we are likely to experience dreams or nightmares that could be very distressing, sometimes laced with violence and death. It could be our ‘death’ or that of our loved one, or even someone remote.
Sometimes, our dreams are influenced by our sleeping environment. If we sleep in a stuffy environment, deprived of sufficient oxygen, we are more likely to have nightmares, including illusionary choking effects by close relatives trying to strangulate us. A colder sleeping environment than we are accustomed to will probably result in our dreaming of being drowned by our supposed enemy or seemingly the devil.
Falling asleep in a cozy environment, more beautiful and relaxing than we are familiar with, could give us déjà vu dreams. We could be celebrating our electoral victory or that of a loved one, or even of someone remote to us, as governor, or as senator.
In essence, there are many circumstantial factors that cause us to dream the kind of dreams that make us “a Chosen!”. In fact our brain programs us to experience nightmares to help nudge us awake when the physical factors in our sleeping environment changes to life threatening levels. Unfortunately, due to agesheld traditions, folklore, and written works we read, we have held dreams and nightmares to affect and control our daily lives by giving them myths. These long held beliefs have negatively impacted our physical realities and world views, including our relationships with our loved ones, colleagues and/or communities.
Dreams we may have had, no thanks to the effects of illness, or our state of mind or our environmental situation, have been held to be manifest and used to slander those who meant us no harm or have no thoughts of us at all.
Our dreams during sleep are not real. They are illusions, concocted by our brain and given images based on our experiences of the past. None should be used as yardstick for any physical occurrence that happens afterwards.
If a dream appears to have happened, it did so by coincidence. The possibility that we dreamt today, and it occurred tomorrow or even in a year’s time, is within the realm of probability. In other words, whether we dreamt or not, or acted on our dream or not, what happened would still have happened as if we never dreamt at all. Put it like this: any event that occurred would still have occurred with or without our dream. The other way is also true. Any event that didn’t occur would still not have occurred with our dream.
Our universe and, of course, our daily lives are ruled by probabilities and science. Together, they form the laws of nature, which we individually experience mostly as coincidences. There is nothing infinitesimal in nature that can occur that can not occur within a given time and place. Once it occurs, it can coincide with a dream someone had now or in a remote past. When such coincidence happens, we are made to believe that it is a product of our dream; that our dream foretold us of the event. Often, we
deliberately omit to interrogate the cause of the dream, some of which are results of depression, intoxication, stress, restlessness, hunger, etc.
There are over eight billion people in our world. Assuming only about two billion of us dream and remember, in a year, there would have been hundreds of billions of dreams of varying dimensions and interpretations waiting to be fulfilled. If all of us who dream and remember were to put to effects actions to realise or prevent our dreams from occurring, the world will become very chaotic. There will be lawlessness on the streets, crimes will thrive. People will abstain from their emergency jobs, planes will be grounded. There will be power outages, banks will shut down, diseases will spread, etc. There will be confusion everywhere. People will die.
Most of us look at our dreams from our own personal space and experiences only, forgetting that the world is populated by the other billions of people who equally dream simultaneously with us. As one of us may have dreamt today that Abuja suffered terrorist attacks, one of us elsewhere may also have dreamt that Abuja is in a celebratory mood. Either of the dreams or something in-between is bound to be correct. And when either happens, it is not because the incident was foretold by a dreamer or either of the dreamers. It will be mere happenstance.
Reliance on dreams does not belong to the age of science. Controlling our lives by dreams have caused us several setbacks. People have suffered untold consequences, including pains of death because someone dreamt. A loved one dies of medically verifiable circumstances, but that becomes irrelevant because someone dreamt that he was spiritually murdered by some other loved ones.
In Africa, in particular, a lot of people have been labelled sorcerers, witches, occultists, ritualists, etc., because someone dreamt. Many have cancelled or cut short valuable trips because someone dreamt. Many have failed to visit their communities or associates or take responsibility for their loved ones because someone dreamt. In fact, dreams have cost Africa conflicts and deaths. A continent of endemic diseases and poverty that breeds nightmares, relies on them to judge one another.
Our world is not governed by dreams. Neither do dreams influence our successes or failures.
The dreams we dream while asleep remain dreams and nothing more. The only dream that is a reality is the one we have while fully awake; dreams that come by meditations.
Robert, an entrepreneur, lawyer and a Fellow of Nigerian Society of Engineers is social-thinker, and creative writer
Tayiiki, a political analyst, writes from Kafanchan, Southern Kaduna
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
ISSUES IN THE 12-YEAR EDUCATION REFORM PROPOSAL
Why is the transition from 9-3-4 to 12-4 structure a priority now?
Last week, Education Minister, Tunji Alausa, proposed the transition of the country to a 12-year basic education system while advocating a shift from the current 9-3-4 model to a 12-4 structure.
“It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work in order to further their education,” Alausa said at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education meeting in Abuja. By transitioning to the 12-4 system, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education, he added. But following a national uproar over the plan, Alausa met the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), as well as the confederation of Principals of Secondary School in Nigeria (ANCOPPS) to explain that no decision has been taken on the issue.
First, this meeting should have preceded the mooting of the idea of a change in the national template for this level of the educational system. Two, the same minister who talked about ongoing discussions has already told Nigerians that implementation is being contemplated for the last quarter of 2025. That is just about seven months from now. While a fast-food approach to policy making has become common with the current administration, this is unacceptable in a sector as critical as education considering that we are talking about a new template for human capital development for the country. Alausa’s predecessor, Tahir Mamman announced a ban on students who are under-18 years from sitting for the West African Senior Secondary School Certificate (WASSCE) examination, and the National Examinations Council (NECO) almost like a military decree. The policy was reversed before he was sacked.
capacity is a mandatory prerequisite for any progression. It is based on such an evaluation that the disaggregation of products of the school system into those knowledgeable enough to play various knowledge-imparting roles can be done. Besides, there are pertinent questions begging for answers on this issue.
Why is this transition from 9-3-4 to 12-4 structure a priority now? Where is the report on the performance of the old system that Alausa now wishes to replace? What are the shortcomings that were identified and by whom? What is to be gained by the new system that cannot be achieved through the re-invention of the old system? Most importantly, what is being put in place to upgrade the skill of teachers to march whatever new templates are being planned?
The entire educational landscape in Nigeria is dotted with schools without books, equipment and competent teachers. Fixing the infrastructure in schools, hiring quality staff and securing the environment in which they learn would be a more productive intervention
SUNDAY NEWSPAPER
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We concede that there are fundamental flaws in our education that need the attention of critical stakeholders. But not in the manner the current administration is going about them. We fear the possibility of undue haste in the contemplated changes to the pre-tertiary level of the national educational system. Such haste would be most unwise, counterproductive and dangerous. The overall profile of Nigeria’s human capital development will be affected by it and, without contesting the role of the National Council on Education as a platform for standards and system review, we believe that a much broader national consensus is needed on this issue.
The proposal being canvassed by Alausa aims to integrate junior and senior secondary education into one single continuous system. It is expected to ensure seamless transition between primary and secondary education, by removing what the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) chairman, Haruna Adamu, called examination barriers to academic progression. But the very idea of examination as a barrier to academic transition is already a misconception. Evaluation of academic
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The entire educational landscape in Nigeria is dotted with schools without books, equipment and competent teachers. Fixing the infrastructure in schools, hiring quality staff and securing the environment in which they learn, etc., would be a more productive intervention. At the tertiary level, the tell-tale signs are the products - unskilled and unable to compete with their peers elsewhere. The crisis of tertiary education in Nigeria is better appreciated by the large number of our young citizens trooping to neighbouring countries within the West African subregion to earn degrees.
If the federal government is bent on a systemic change in the education sector, it should consult extensively. And the implementation of such policy cannot commence in the next academic calendar.
Letters in response to specific publications in THiSDAY should be brief(150-200 words) and straight to the point. interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. we also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer
LETTERS
THE TRIAL OF NNAMDI KANU
In videos which have since gone viral, Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) appears to have lost it all in court on 10th February 2025, cutting loose a volley of verbal abuse at the judge and prosecution as his trial resumed.
Kanu’s grouse revolved on his insistence that the court could no longer preside over his matter having recused itself from same. All efforts to placate Kanu failed as he refused to back down, repeating over and over again that he had lost confidence in the court.
Kanu’s current travail may have started in 2021 when the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari joined forces with the Kenyan government, arrested Kanu and bundled him back to Nigeria to resume his trial on charges bordering on terrorism.
In the heat of his trial, Nnamdi Kanu had fled the country in 2017 setting up shop in the UK
from where his withering verbal and epistolary missiles remained a source of great consternation and irritation to the Nigerian government. Kanu’s rearrest in 2021 was somewhat of a victory for the Nigerian government.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has since succeeded Muhammadu Buhari as president of the country and has shown signs that he is willing to jettison the ruinous path toed by his predecessor. Yet, for all his overtures for the peace and unity of the country, and for Nigerians from every region to find and feel a sense of inclusion in the Nigerian project, the Nnamdi Kanu situation remains and is turning uglier by the day.
The Nigerian civil war may have ended in 1970, but the divisions forced by the war have remained just as potent more than 50 years later. It is not just that the Igbo of the Southeast who also maintain a presence across Nigeria’s 36 states
with a considerable diaspora presence around the world feel like strangers to the Nigerian project, Nigeria’s from other regions struggle to conceal their distaste at the sight of the Igbo on Nigeria’s table. Former president Muhammadu Buhari was especially representative of this view.
With the Igbo having such a torrid time at the national level, re-arresting and returning Nnamdi Kanu to his trial at the Federal High Court has upturned the fragile peace of the southeast region.
For more than three years now, residents of the regioncontinuetositathomeonMondaysasdifferent groups have taken to restricting movement to flex their muscles and in response to the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu.
There have been calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s release from his kinsmen in the Southeast region and beyond. There have also been calls
for a political solution for what has become a problem of profound proportions. Experience from around the world shows conclusively that problems like secessionist agitation have never been solved save by political and inclusive solutions.
The federal government may have proscribed IPOB. The government may have its leader in detention and on trial. But the more pressing question the government must engage is whether these measures it has taken are closing in on solving the problems in the Southeast or actually worsening them.
Truthfully answering these pressing questions hold the key not just to Nigeria’s immediate security needs but its long-term interests and strategic needs.
Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
Round Peg and Round Hole Diplomacy: The Return of Professor Bolaji Akinyemi to NIIA
The return of Professor Akinwande Bolaji Akinyemi, CFR, PhD Oxford, FNIIA, FSSAN, FAIA, to the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), as Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institute, rekindles my hope of better days to come in the new Nigeria that is in the making. The return is coming on the heels of Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama’s submission of a new foreign policy thrust in the conduct and management of Nigeria’s foreign relations. Ambassador Tuggar has come up with the diplomacy of 4-Ds (Democracy, Demography, Development and Diaspora) and introduction of a new centre of gravity for political governance: Strategic Autonomy. The 4-Ds serve as instruments of attaining strategic autonomy, hence the thrust should be seen as a new foreign policy objective that should be constitutionalised.
When Professor Ibrahim Gambari argued the case of foreign policy concentric circles, he underscored the aspect of operational factors by dividing the world into four major concentric circles. In the innermost circle, he put Nigeria and her immediate neighbours, because their security is intertwined. After, Ambassador Oluyemi Adeniji introduced the Constructive and Beneficial Concentricism approach, admitting Professor Gambari’s submission, but positing the need to articulate what the foreign policy focus should be in each operational area, apart from the Mission Charter of every embassy. More important, he argued that concentricism should be constructive in strategy and beneficial to all Nigerians in outcome. Today, ‘Strategic Autonomy,’ as presented by the Foreign Minister Tuggar, is the ‘fulcrum’ of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) and therefore constitutes the centre of gravity of all the concentric circles.
Before now, research generally focused on Nigeria’s attitude towards the world and not focusing on how Nigeria is seen by the world. The first research leg of the quest for ‘strategic autonomy’ should be an investigation into the place of Nigeria in the foreign policy calculations of other countries of the world in order to have a better bargaining power. What is beautiful is that a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, an astute academic, and also a former Director-General of the NIIA, is appointed to chair the NIIA Governing Council. Putting round pegs into round holes is a most welcome development.
Bolaji Akinyemi and Nigeria’s Foreign Policy
Many are the ways notable people are recognised in international relations and the academic world. Professional bodies give awards to their outstanding members, such as Fellowships. Scholars can honour their own people through prizes-giving and book-Festschrift. Community leaders are rewarded with traditional chieftaincy titles. Even Government give national awards to appreciate scientific breakthroughs, contributions to societal development, awards for engagement in patriotic activities, commitment to defence of territorial integrity, etc. Even though Professor Akinyemi has been honoured with CFR (Commander of the Federal Republic), this cannot compare enough with his being one of the Darkest Academia or belonging to the Goth Academia in international relations.
A darkest academia in international relations is someone who seeks beauty out of darkest places. A darkest academia does not believe that anything can be one hundred percent bad. He or she necessarily believes that even from an African black pot, something good and positive can still be taken out of it. In fact, the historiography of Gothic Academia shows much interest in gothic studies, literature, arts, occult, poetry, music, architecture, etc., all of which are aimed at finding the best out of worst scenarios. Without any whiff of doubt, Professor Akinyemi often disagreed with any postulation that claims that Nigeria cannot make it, especially when the environment of the economy is inclement. He does not believe that Nigeria’s image in international relations cannot be considerably improved upon internationally even
: 0807-688-2846 e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com
with a hostile environment. His belief is always that Nigerian leaders should always use whatever they have to influence international perception of Nigeria to their advantage. Consequently, the appointment of Professor Akinwande Bolaji Akinyemi as Chairman of the Governing Council of the NIIA cannot but lead to putting an end to whatever challenges that may be confronting the NIIA. The NIIA has generally been poorly funded like it is the case with several research institutions in Nigeria. The Institute needs at least 50 core researchers to cover the whole world, but there is no good funding for this to happen.
In spite of the challenge of poor funding, Professor Akinyemi was still able to introduce the ‘International Dialogue Series’ to market the Institute to the world and to let the World know that the NIIAis also a market place to shop for very sagacious intellectuals. And true enough, he also introduced the ‘Ambassadors Forum’ to which Principal Representatives of foreign countries were invited to speak about their countries’ foreign policies, as well as promote the interests of their countries. NIIA Research Fellows, senior members of staff, and registered Members of the Institute were always invited to participate and invited Ambassadors always felt free to speak in the mania of the Chatham House. Additionally, Professor Akinyemi created the Nigerian Forum in the mania of the Chatham House. Seasoned scholarly opinions were and still are published in it with or without references.
After he left the NIIA, his theoretical instinct only led to praxis
Most unfortunately, however, for people seeking appointment as Board or Council Member, the NIIA is not good and ideal for their money-making. It is only a place for international respect, dignity of purpose, and critical thinking. Many scholars who sought to work there as if it is a playground, ended up being disappointed and not even staying there for two years. Certificate cheating people ran away before being pursued. It is therefore no surprise that politicians hardly like being appointed to the NIIA Governing Council. Only patriotic people, seriously-minded scholars enjoy the Institute. This is why the returning of Professor Bolaji Akinyemi is quite interesting. In fact, it is more interesting in light of the returning of Nigeria to the African Union’s Political, Peace and Security Council with the re-election of Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, an astute diplomatist, whose commitment to Nigeria and the African Union has been helpful. The complementary and dogged campaigns of Foreign Minister Tuggar also partly explain his re-election. It is this type of unflinching commitment that is now required at the level of the NIIA Governing Council and the entire Nigerian people to help sow the seed of Strategic Autonomy, grow and germinate the seeds, and collectively ensure that Nigeria is made strategically autonomous and greater, as what Nigeria needs today is a foreign policy grand strategy that will make Nigeria second to none
and throwing of more thought-provoking questions to scholars to answer. For instance, his ‘Consultation Doctrine’ became a foreign policy legacy more than the Kissingerian style. At the second Foreign Policy Review Conference held at the NIPSS in 1986 (the first having been held in 1961), the then Foreign Minister Akinyemi was asked the question as to why Nigeria should be preaching the sermon of Africa as centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy, as well as preaching the protection and defence of African and black dignity, on the one hand, but refusing to attend to the Euro-American mistreatment of Muammar Gaddafi of Libya, on the other hand.
Professor Akinyemi’s response was swift: no one should ever take Nigeria for granted. Whoever wants Nigeria’s support at any time must also learn how to first consult with Nigeria before swimming in the oceans of troubles. When Egypt had security problems with Israel and Nigeria had to strain her diplomatic ties with Israel, Egypt never bothered to carry Nigeria along when she went back to sign the Camp David accords with US President Jimmy Carter, Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, to settle her dispute with Israel. Consequently, in the eyes of Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, there was the need to consult first with Nigeria if Nigeria’s entente, solidarity, and support was to be expected. This is what is generally referred to as ‘Consultation Doctrine’ in Nigeria’s Foreign policy. It is against this background that the making of the Concert of Medium Powers (CMP) should also be explained and understood. Professor Akinyemi wanted Nigeria to be an effective regional leader, especially becoming a powerful force in her region. He strongly believes in consultation in addressing international questions. He convened a conference of Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Senegal, Sweden, Switzerland, Venezuela, and Yugoslavia in 1987. With Nigeria the Convener, the Concert comprised 17 members. They met with a view to help consolidate international peace and security by promoting confidence-building among states. This effort fell within the framework of Middle Power Diplomacy. As we noted in this column (vide ‘Academy of International Affairs and Nigeria’s Foreign Policy of 4-Ds: Objective, Agenda, or Framework? thisdaylive.com), the CMP was conceived in 1987 to initially serve as a consultation forum on global questions. The invitation extended to the 16 countries was largely based on the consideration that the countries were regional influential and medium powers on their own right. But for fears that the invited members would be seen as seeking to confront the super, or the great, powers, the name had to be changed to Lagos Forum. The CMP therefore entered into désuétude only to be resurrected in the format of an Academy of International Affairs (AIA), which he founded in 2022, to seek a just and equitable world order. He is the President of the AIA.
Apart from the CMP enabling the opportunity to share ideas and sustaining Nigeria’s leadership as a regional influential, there is a special legacy he also left behind: the Technical Aid Corps Scheme (TACS), which was created by Decree No. 27 of January 1987 and signed into law in January 1993. A directorate was established to implement the law. Two major dynamics of the TACS were the official recognition by the United Nations in 1961 of the need to have a UN Volunteers’ Service and the much interest of the developing countries in the service when it was eventually established in 1970.
Believing that domestic economic problems should not prevent Nigeria from acting well internationally, Professor Akinyemi came up with the TACS. Nigerian scholars and professionals were sent to foreign countries in need to help them. The scheme is still being sustained. Today, a new pillar, Strategic Autonomy, is being constructed to further project Nigeria internationally. The TACS remains the external dimension while the domestic foundation is now strategic autonomy towards which the main stakeholders, particularly the NIIA, should begin to work.
NIIA and Nigeria’s Strategic Autonomy
The NIIA, even with Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, cannot but still have ‘critical challenges’ to address. First is the need to help restore the Institute’s old good image as a centre for brainstorming activities. The Bolaji Akinyemi years placed emphasis on academic research and institutional freedom but emphasis shifted thereafter from one Director-General to the other. This can be so but should never be allowed to undermine the pursuit of academic excellence. The NIIAmust always be at par with leading research counterparts like the Chatham House after which the NIIA is patterned, and the Council on Foreign Relations with which the NIIA partners.
The NIIAGoverning Council, under the chairmanship of General Ike Omar Sanda Nwachukwu, completely bastardised the Institute by introducing a manu militari approach in the governance of the NIIA. By asking one ambassador to deputise for him in his absence, and even inciting a Research Fellow against the Chief Executive of the Institute, General Nwachukwu had his good name, integrity and all that he achieved in terms of decency completely tainted. The General Nwachukwu Governing Council was directly intervening in the day-to-day running of the Institute, and even, most unfortunately, laid a foundation for the appointment of Council Professors rather than NIIA appointed Professors.
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Akinyemi
Female Trailblazers Behind the Lens
The Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, has continued to grow significantly despite infrastructural and other challenges. Over the years, the industry has positioned itself as a global powerhouse in storytelling, creativity, and cultural representation.
A PwC Africa Entertainment and Media Outlook Report for 2022-2026 projected Nigeria’s media and entertainment sector to be worth $15 billion by 2025. Digital platforms such as Netflix, Showmax, Prime Video, and YouTube are responsible for this forecast as they are creating new opportunities for distribution and audience engagement, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s soft power on the global stage.
At the forefront of this transformation are Nigerian female filmmakers who, against all odds, continue to push the envelope by creating high-quality content that resonates with diverse audiences and promoting inclusion in the industry. Nollywood’s creative economy now employs over 2.5% of Nigeria’s workforce, with female-led productions driving job creation and international partnerships.
From drama to reality TV, their impact is undeniable as they redefine storytelling while contributing significantly to the nation’s creative economy. Below are some of the outstanding female filmmakers leading the trail.
MO AbUDU: THe VISIONArY pIONeer
Nigerian media mogul, Mosunmola “Mo” Abudu stands at the forefront of Nollywood’s global evolution. As the founder of EbonyLife Media, Abudu has made her mark with high-profile projects like ‘Fifty,’ ‘The Wedding Party’ franchise, and ‘Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman. Her groundbreaking collaborations with global platforms such as Netflix, Sony Pictures and AMC Networks have paved the way for international co-productions. Under her leadership, EbonyLife has also nurtured new talent through initiatives like the EbonyLife Creative Academy, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals for the industry.
As a leader in Nigeria’s creative economy, she recently introduced Naija Creates, an initiative aimed at promoting and exporting excellence across Nigeria’s creative industries, including film, arts, food, music, and fashion, among others, as part of her commitment to the sector’s growth.
FUNKe AKINDele: bOx OFFIce QUeeN
Funke Akindele has mastered the art of blending humour, cultural insights, and bold cinematic vision. Renowned for her iconic Jenifa franchise, Akindele has consistently redefined success in the Nigerian film industry. Her 2022 blockbuster, ‘Battle on Buka Street,’ smashed records by grossing over 1 billion. She followed this with the 2023 release ‘A Tribe Called Judah,’ another billionnaira triumph. Akindele’s latest masterpiece, ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa,’ has raised the bar even higher, becoming the fastest Nollywood film to gross 1 billion in just 19 days. This remarkable achievement cements her status as the first filmmaker in Nollywood history to have two films
The Timinni Egbuson’s ‘Reel Love’ Premieres in Lagos
Nollywood actor and producer Timini Egbuson’s romantic tale ‘Reel Love’ premiered February 9 in Lagos with theatrical released on Valentine’s Day, February 14.
The film explores the complexities of modern relationships and the impact of social media on romance.
“‘Reel Love’ is a story close to my heart,” said Egbuson. “It speaks to the reality of love in the digital age, how we connect, break, and heal. I wanted to create a Valentine’s movie that is authentic, relatable, and deeply moving, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”
Directed by Kayode Kasum, known for blockbuster hits such as ‘Sugar Rush,’ ‘Kambiili - the whole 30 yards,’ and ‘Quams Money, the film boasts a stellar cast including Funke Akindele, Dakore Akande, Bimbo Ademoye, Muyiwa Ademola, Jay On Air, Hermes Iyele, Lilian Afegbai, Efa Iwara, Shaffy Bello, Valerie Ike, Ifan Michael, Olagoke Olajumoke, and introducing T.J. Omosuku who plays the supporting lead role.
surpass the billion-naira mark within a single year. Akindele’s trailblazing career continues to inspire and reshape the boundaries of African cinema. Her ability to create relatable stories with widespread appeal has not only won her critical acclaim but has also cemented her as one of Nollywood’s most bankable filmmakers.
bOlANle AUSTeN-peTerS: cUlTUrAl cUrATOr
Known for her theatrical brilliance, Bolanle Austen-Peters who recently celebrated her 56th birthday has expanded Nollywood’s horizons with films like ‘Collision Course,’ ‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’ and ‘House of Ga’a.’ Her work combines cinematic artistry with thought-provoking themes, shedding light on societal issues while entertaining audiences.
Austen-Peters also spearheads the development of live theatre in Nigeria, proving her versatility as a storyteller and cultural entrepreneur. She recently played a key role in the successful Lagos International Theatre Festival, held in November 2024, which brought together global performers and celebrated theatrical excellence with 25 stage plays, including three international showpieces.
Austen-Peters is dedicated to advancing the quality of storytelling in Africa, as part of this mission, she unveiled the BAP Film Village, a sprawling 10,000-acre facility in Epe, Lagos State. The village, featuring rolling hills, huts, and stateof-the-art amenities, serves as a hub for filmmakers, hosting production projects such as her Netflix film House of GA’A. The village is also open to film excursions.
JADe OSIberU: A GlObAl STOrYTeller
Jade Osiberu has redefined modern Nollywood by embracing diverse genres and platforms. From her early success with ‘Gidi Up’ on YouTube to cinema hits like ‘Isoken’ and streaming successes like ‘Brotherhood,’ ‘Gangs of Lagos’ and most recently ‘Christmas in Lagos,’ she has seamlessly blended cultural authenticity with universal themes, underscoring her versatility as a director, producer, and writer. Her work continues to push Nollywood to new creative heights, making her a true innovator in the industry
rUTH KADIrI: THe peOple’S prODUcer
Ruth Kadiri has emerged as a Nollywood powerhouse, leveraging YouTube to connect with over 2.73 million subscribers. Her platform features emotionally charged, relatable stories, short films, and behind-the-scenes content, drawing millions of monthly views. Kadiri’s grassroots storytelling not only entertains global audiences but also fuels job creation and highlights the power of digital
platforms in Nollywood’s evolution.
KeMI ADeTIbA: THe VISUAlIST
Kemi Adetiba’s ‘The Wedding Party’ remains one of Nollywood’s highest-grossing films, but it’s her subsequent projects that truly showcased her prowess. ‘King of Boys’ and its sequel series, ‘The Return of the King,’ revolutionized Nollywood by delivering complex, politically charged narratives. The series ranked among Netflix’s top 10 globally, a testament to its universal appeal.
Adetiba’s bold approach to storytelling and meticulous production quality have positioned her as one of Nollywood’s most influential filmmakers. Her work has opened doors for a new genre of politically and socially conscious filmmaking in the industry.
UcHe IKeJIMbA: reAlITY TV AND ScrIpTeD DrAMA MASTerMIND
She is one of Nigeria’s foremost reality TV producers, serving as a line producer for Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show, ‘Big Brother Naija’ and a showrunner for its highprofile Reunion shows. Her work on BBNaija season 8 themed All Stars, recorded over one billion votes during its 10-week run. She has also helmed the production of other Africa Magic reality hits like ‘Shoot Your Shot,’ ‘Come Play Naija,’ ‘Husband Material’ and ‘Overall Best.’
As the founder of Blink Africa, Ikejimba has also made her mark in drama with hits like ‘Unmarried,’ ‘Dilemma,’ and ‘AGU,’ Showmax’s first original legal drama. Her expansive body of work repertoire solidifies her reputation as a creative force across genres.
MArY reMMY NJOKU: lOcAl TAleNT AND AFrIcAN STOrYTellING cHAMpION
As the founder of ROK Studios, Mary Remy Njoku has built a production powerhouse that churns out content loved by millions. With ROK’s acquisition by CANAL+, Njoku has expanded the reach of African stories to Francophone Africa and beyond. Her projects include fan-favourite films like ‘Husbands of Lagos’ and ‘Throne,’ which resonate with both local and diaspora audiences.
TOpe OSHIN: DIVerSITY ADVOcATe
Tope Oshin’s portfolio spans award-winning films like ‘Up North’ and ‘We Don’t Live Here Anymore.’ A vocal advocate for women’s representation in film, Oshin’s projects often explore themes of identity, gender, and inclusion. She is also a mentor to budding filmmakers, ensuring more women find opportunities in Nollywood.
Njoku
Oshin
Ikejimba
Abudu
Akindele. Austen -peters
Osiberu Kadiri
Adetiba
Timinni egbuson’s
Constan C e Walter a Woman of Constant e volution
Every woman wants a piece of Constance Walter, the eponymous fashion brand owned by Chioma Constance Walter. With a global clientele spanning the United Kingdom, Middle East, and America, the brand has captivated women seeking unique, standout styles. In a recent chat, Vanessa Obioha explores Walter’s remarkable journey, transitioning from banking to the fashion industry.
Branding is about every detail, from your identity to the clothes you make
Timeless. That’s the word often associated with Constance Walter, the eponymous fashion brand headquartered in Lagos with a global clientele.
During the brand’s SS25/Holiday Collection held last December, the founder Chioma Constance Walter, who hails from Imo State, was pleasantly surprised by the turnout of guests at the Pearl Garden in Victoria Island, where the event took place.
“When I came out and saw the crowd, it was overwhelming. I thought, ‘Oh my goodness! How did this happen?’ I was excited to see my very good clients, who I wasn’t even expecting that they would be around. Indeed, I was pleasantly surprised,” she shared on a recent afternoon in her Lekki office. Her showroom was filled with stylish attires for women— from kaftans to boubous and evening gowns— in a vivid array of colours.
What stood out even more was seeing a client who still looked elegant in a piece she had purchased a decade ago at the event. This kind of scenario is not uncommon in Walter’s over 10year career, which began as a childhood passion. Often, friends would send her photos of someone wearing her designs.
“A customer came in three days ago and told me how, at a party, she immediately recognised another woman wearing Constance Walter. Statements like that make me happy.”
Her enduring legacy, however, goes beyond her designs. It’s rooted in her understanding of branding. Many have mistaken her brand for an international label.
“I remember one time I travelled to the UK for Christmas to visit my daughters. I went to Selfridges, and a woman stopped me to admire my outfit. ‘Who’s the designer?’ she asked, expecting me to say Givenchy or Louis Vuitton. I told her it was Constance Walter. I didn’t mention that I was the designer. She asked for the social media handle and I shared it with her. It was after she sent a DM that she realised I was the one. ‘Oh my goodness,’ she screamed, saying that she would have been starstruck meeting the designer if I had told her I was the one.”
“So that’s the whole idea of using my name Constance Walter. It is for global acceptability. And it has worked tremendously.”
Walter adopted Constance Walter over four years ago, just as the COVID-19 pandemic started. Before that, she had experimented with other brand names, such as Truly Essential and Stitches by Chioma.
“Someone asked for my handle and I gave her Stitches by Chioma. The moment she typed ‘stitches,’ over 100 accounts with the name stitches came out. So that was when I started thinking about rebranding from Stitches by Chioma to a name that is unique and personal to me,” she explained.
Since then, Constance Walter has stuck, and she has no intention of changing it. The brand name has taught her the importance of branding in the fashion business.
“Branding is everything. In fact, before you even start the business, you need to plan your branding. I remember I had a customer in South Africa. She ordered some outfits from my Instagram page. So, her husband came to Nigeria and took her order with him to South Africa. When she received the packages, she went gaga. She said at one point she thought she bought an outfit from Gucci or Louis Vuitton. She felt that way because of how we package our dresses. We consider every detail. Branding is a total package, it is about every detail. From your identity to the clothes you make, every element matters.”
Her ability to run a successful fashion business that caters to every woman stems from a deep-rooted passion for fashion which was ignited at a younger age. As the only daughter of her parents, her mother unknowingly nurtured her sense of style with her outfits such that any time she stepped out, people always paid her a compliment. Whether it was a matching bag and a pair of shoes or the way her dress was styled, Walter, at her younger age, turned heads. Gradually, she found herself evincing a passion for creating her own designs.
One of her mother’s apprentices, Aunty Priscilla further fostered this interest. Walter spent much time at Priscilla’s shop, cutting fabrics and learning. One day, Priscilla challenged her to make a patchwork for a scarf. Walter, who had observed her closely, completed the task with ease. Her mother, noticing her growing interest, got her a sewing kit.
By the time she entered the University of Port Harcourt where she studied German and French languages, she again stole the spotlight with her designs. Her designs stood out and it was only a matter of time before her friends started insisting that the tailor styled their clothes just like hers.
Despite all the signs, it took Walter some time to fully embrace fashion as a career. She first worked in banking, then in aviation. It wasn’t until she travelled to several lingerie fairs across Europe and America, launching her own lingerie line, that she found her true calling. A friend encouraged her to set up a fashion business and even helped her acquire sewing machines. From there, Walter transformed her living room into a showroom, with her restroom serving as a changing room.
Today, Constance Walter is sought after worldwide, from the UK to the Middle East and America. Every woman wants a piece of the
brand. Walter’s magic lies in the highquality fabrics she uses and, of course, her originality, which she emphasised, cannot be replicated.
“There’s a unique touch to my designs. Even if you copy the style, you can’t capture that touch,” she stated confidently. “That is the blessing God has given to me and it’s also originality.
“I know how many weeks and sleepless nights it took me to create that stuff. And when I’m producing it, I know what it takes me to correct certain things, from mistakes to becoming that style or design. So you are just seeing the finished work, you won’t know what I have done to get to that. Some designs are like serendipity situations, from a mistake unexpectedly.”
Walter’s main goal is to make every woman unique, rather than follow trends.
“A woman feels her best when she wears confidence like a dress and steals the spotlight when she walks into a room. That confidence is even stronger when she knows no one else is dressed quite like her. That’s what we give our clients. A unique style,” she concluded.
walter
HighLife
...Amazing
with KAYoDe ALFreD 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com
lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous
Who’s Looking for Mele Kyari’s Job?
Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, is facing uncertainty over his position, with speculation still mounting about his possible removal. According to reports, he is allegedly rushing to sell off oil blocks before an anticipated exit, raising concerns about the motives and implications of such deals.
At the centre of the controversy is the disposal of underutilised oil blocks. Kyari is reportedly keen on concluding these transactions swiftly, but critics argue that the buyers lack the expertise to manage these assets. This has fuelled suspicions about whether the sales are in the best interest of the industry or a last-minute power move.
On the other hand, Kyari’s supporters insist that his leadership has been instrumental in stabilizing the oil sector. Thus, some civil society groups and industry stakeholders have voiced strong opposition to his removal, citing his achievements, such as refinery rehabilitation, price stabilization, and reforms within NNPC.
Inspiring Mileage of
In the pantheon of Yoruba excellence, where the virtues of the Omoluabi—honour, diligence,
Bimbo Ashiru
guarantees his tenure. However, the push for his exit suggests that forces within the government may not be comfortable with his continued presence at the helm.
The controversy around Kyari is not new. As the first CEO of NNPC Limited, he has many a time forded the complex web of politics, industry interests, and economic challenges. His background in crude oil marketing and strategic reforms has earned him praise, but also powerful enemies who may prefer a more pliable leadership.
If Kyari is indeed attempting to push through last-minute deals, the question arises: who benefits? The Nigerian public has seen similar rushed transactions in the past, often ending in scandals. Whether these sales are necessary for NNPC’s efficiency or a desperate attempt to secure influence remains a matter of debate.
As the drama unfolds, what happens next will shape the future of NNPC and the Nigerian oil sector. If Kyari remains in office, he will need to defend his decisions. If he is removed, his successor will inherit an institution in flux. Either way, the stakes are high, and the outcome will not go unnoticed.
at Odu’a Investment Group
and integrity—are held as sacred, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru stands tall. As Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, he is not just steering an enterprise; he is curating a legacy, breathing new life into a historic institution that has long been the economic pillar of the Southwest. Since assuming the mantle of leadership, he has infused the group with visionary dynamism, rekindling the entrepreneurial fire that once made Odu’a the pride of the Yoruba nation.
Ashiru’s leadership at Odu’a is not one of mere stewardship but of transformation. With his background in banking and governance— having served as Ogun State’s Commissioner for Commerce and Industry—he understands the delicate art of turning potential into prosperity. He has brought a keen financial mind to the helm, ensuring that Odu’a Investment is not just a custodian of old wealth but a creator of new frontiers.
His speech at the Wemabod Real Estate
Outlook 2025 encapsulates this ambition. With the consolidation of all of Odu’a’s real estate assets under Wemabod Limited, the group now stands as one of Nigeria’s largest real estate businesses, a giant poised to redefine urban landscapes.
Ashiru’s vision is clear: not just to compete within Nigeria, but to set standards across Africa and beyond. His roadmap is bold—250,000 square meters of warehousing, over 100,000 square meters of office and retail space, and at least 1,000 residential units in the coming years.
Yet, beyond the numbers and the grand economic vision, Ashiru remains deeply committed to the ideal of communal prosperity. He understands that wealth without impact is vanity, and development without purpose is hollow. He calls for an enabling environment, where government, industry, and the private sector collaborate to ensure homeownership is not just for the elite but accessible to everyday Nigerians.
On the Trail of Zacch Adedeji… Nigeria’s New Power Broker
Reaching the pinnacle of power is no small feat. It demands resilience, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For Zacch Adedeji, success was never handed to him—it was earned, starting from a humble cocoa farming family in Oyo State to becoming one of Nigeria’s most influential figures.
Adedeji’s story began with numbers. From managing his father’s farm accounts to graduating with a first-class degree in accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University, his intellectual prowess was evident early on. His career took off at Procter & Gamble, where his financial expertise saved the company millions and earned him a place in senior management.
But corporate success was just the beginning. Adedeji’s talents caught the eye of the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who recognized his potential to transform public finance. At 33, Adedeji became Oyo State’s Finance Commissioner, where he
overhauled the state’s revenue system, blocked leakages, and introduced the Treasury Single Account. His reforms turned financial chaos into structured prosperity.
Adedeji’s influence continued to grow. As Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council, he implemented critical reforms that strengthened Nigeria’s sugar industry. His exceptional performance led President Bola Tinubu to appoint him Special Adviser on Revenue and later, Executive Chairman of FIRS.
At FIRS, Adedeji has redefined tax collection in Nigeria. Under his leadership, the agency has consistently surpassed revenue targets, providing the government with the funds needed for national development. His strategic vision and results-driven approach have cemented his role as a key player in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Opeyemi Bamidele: Bringing Stability to National Assembly
Like a seasoned mariner guiding his ship through tempestuous waters, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele stands as a steadying force in Nigeria’s National Assembly. Unlike Napoleon Bonaparte, whose patriotism was marked by conquest, Bamidele’s devotion to his country is one of service, consensus, and unwavering commitment to democratic stability.
Bamidele’s influence is always felt in the careful orchestration of legislative priorities. As Senate Leader, he has placed economic transformation at the forefront, the most recent evidence being how he championed the 2025 budget review and tax reform bills. In his view, a nation’s growth depends not just on leadership but on laws that
create opportunities for all.
But policy is not his only strong suit; there is also Bamidele’s leadership which centres around collaboration. Since 2023, he has worked closely with both chambers of the National Assembly and the executive, ensuring that governance is not a contest of egos but a pursuit of collective progress. This synergy has already yielded results, from refining industry interventions to economic reform initiatives.
From Bamidele’s early days as a legal adviser to his tenure in the Lagos State government, he has built a reputation for strategic thinking and principled governance. He understands that power, when wielded responsibly, is a tool for nation-building, not self-aggrandisement.
Bamidele’s ability to connect with diverse groups sets him apart. His appeal bridges
Oduwole ups the Ante
Some people occupy positions of authority yet remain nothing more than flower boys, flower girls, or even flower pots—ornamental, passive, and incapable of real action. Dr. Jumoke Oduwole is not one of them. Her latest decision to fully digitise the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment by 2025 is proof of her drive, vision, and refusal to be merely decorative.
The digitisation move from Oduwole is not just another policy announcement; it is a decisive shift toward efficiency, transparency, and global relevance. For years, bureaucratic delays and outdated processes have hindered trade and investment in Nigeria. By championing digitalisation, Oduwole is setting a strict deadline for reform, so that the ministry matches 21st-century demands.
A strong leader does not walk alone. Oduwole has brought stakeholders together, securing a strategic partnership with the AIG Imoukhuede Foundation. This collaboration will focus on digital skills training, automated processes, and performance management, ensuring the transformation is not only implemented but sustained. The signing of a performance bond reinforces that accountability is central to her vision.
The stakes are high. A successful digital transformation will accelerate service delivery, attract investment, and position Nigeria as a competitive player in global trade. Failure, however, would mean another missed opportunity, another cycle of inefficiency. But Oduwole’s track record leaves little room for doubt—she has faced complex challenges before and emerged with results.
True leaders distinguish themselves through courage and execution. Oduwole’s decision is about substance. Like the palm tree that bends but does not break, she has weathered political transitions, policy shifts, and institutional inertia, remaining steadfast in her pursuit of progress.
Oduwole is not a flower girl; she is a force of transformation. Those who underestimate her do so at their own peril. With this latest move, she has once again raised the bar, proving that leadership is not about decoration but determination.
the urban and the rural, the elite and the working class. Whether in the chambers of power or the streets of Ekiti, his message of service remains the same—one rooted in development, justice, and accountability.
His legislative focus extends beyond policy papers. The Senate’s ongoing investigation into economic sabotage in the petroleum sector reflects his belief that stability is not just about passing laws but about ensuring they are upheld. For him, governance is not rhetoric; it is the art of making decisions that shape a nation’s destiny.
As history often reminds us, true leadership is not in seeking applause but in leaving a legacy. Bamidele’s work in the National Assembly is a lesson in balance, where ambition meets responsibility and where stability is not enforced by might but nurtured through wisdom and dialogue.
Bamidele
Ashiru
Adedeji
His defenders also argue that any attempt to remove him before 2027 would violate the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which, they claim,
Kyari
oduwole
It’s Big 40 for Aso Villa’s Yetunde Olorunfemi
A milestone like the 40th birthday is more than just a number—it testifies to a life of purpose and impact.
For Yetunde Olorunfemi, the State House Liaison Officer (Lagos) for the Presidential Villa, State House Abuja, this celebration is a recognition of her unwavering dedication to service, bridge-building, and ensuring Lagos remains a pivotal force in national affairs.
Seemingly born with an innate drive for excellence, Olorunfemi’s journey has been marked by hard work and commitment. From her early education at Command Secondary School, Ibadan, to earning her degree at Olabisi Onabanjo University, she has embodied discipline and determination.
The lady is bright and fair but her career trajectory has been even brighter, especially as she has shown how well she is able to merge intelligence with action.
Olorunfemi’s work at the Presidency, especially, has been more than just about protocol; it continues to be about ensuring seamless communication between Lagos and Abuja. Her efficiency has helped ensure that President Bola Tinubu maintains strong ties with his political base, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains a trusted ally in the corridors of power. It is no coincidence that President Tinubu’s frequent visits to Lagos are met with impeccable organisation and warmth.
So, as she marks this significant milestone, family, friends, and well-wishers celebrate not just Olorunfemi’s age but the impact of her work. Her role may not always attract the limelight, but its significance is felt in the stability of relationships between Lagos and Abuja.
oyedepo
Governor Babajide SanwoOlu has announced the end of Lagos State’s work-from-home policy, effective April 1. Initially introduced to ease economic pressures on civil servants, the policy allowed workers to operate
Back to Serious Business … As Lagos Removes Work-from-home Policy
remotely three days a week. As a result, it offered great relief during challenging times.
According to reports, SanwoOlu’s decision to scrap the policy follows the implementation of a new minimum wage and other welfare measures aimed at improving workers’ livelihoods. With these changes, the government believes civil servants can now better manage their commuting costs and return to full on-site work.
Readers would remember that civil servants in Nigeria recently experienced a boost in the minimum given the increasing hardship in the country. Although each state in the nation is allowed to pay at least the new amount, states like Lagos are doing their best to truly ease the burden.
Sanwo-Olu’s administration has also prioritised infrastructure
to support this transition. The expansion of the Red Line Rail Service, for example, has not only increased daily trips but also helped ensure faster and more efficient commutes. Not to mention the unveiling of 10 new ferries which are expected to greatly bolster the state’s integrated transport system and ease road congestion.
These initiatives show Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to enhancing mobility and reducing the burden on workers. By investing in mass transit solutions, Lagos aims to create a seamless commuting experience, fostering productivity and economic growth.
The work-from-home policy was a temporary measure, not a permanent shift. Its removal consequently signals a return to normalcy, so that with physical presence, it would be easier to guarantee public service efficiency and accountability.
At 49, Adaora Umeoji Takes the Lead as Top Alpha Female in Nigeria’s Banking Sector
Some people step into leadership; others define it. Adaora Umeoji, GMD/ CEO of Zenith Bank, belongs to the latter category. At 49, she has risen to the summit of Nigeria’s banking sector, leading Zenith Bank with a rare blend of intellect and elegance. Yes, her beauty turns heads, but it is her brilliance that commands respect.
Umeoji’s path is certainly one of relentless pursuit. With degrees spanning sociology, accounting, law, and business from top global institutions, the fair lady has armed herself with knowledge that sets her apart.
Her rise to Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank is no coincidence. For years, she played a vital role in shaping the bank’s strategic direction, first as a board member and later as Deputy Managing Director. Her leadership has been instrumental in the bank’s expansion and financial dominance.
Under her watch, Zenith Bank recently raised over N350billion through a groundbreaking hybrid rights issue and public offer, securing its place among
Nigeria’s most capitalized financial institutions. The overwhelming investor confidence in this move reflects trust not just in the bank, but in her ability to steer it forward.
Beyond the boardroom, Umeoji is a force of change. Her ascent has shattered barriers, proving that women in banking can lead without hesitation or compromise. More women are now stepping into leadership roles, many inspired by her example to exercise authority with conviction.
Recognition has followed her achievements. Honoured with the Officer of the Order of Nigeria (OON) and celebrated for her humanitarian efforts, Umeoji is more than a corporate leader—she is a role model. The impact of her work extends beyond profit margins, touching lives and communities.
Umeoji’s story is one of power wielded with grace. At just 49, she has redefined success, proving that true leadership is not about dominance but about vision, execution, and legacy. The banking sector will remember her not just as a leader, but as a pioneer.
Who is the Next Crown Prince in Ogun State?
Who is after Olayemi Cardoso?
The race for Ogun State’s governorship in 2027 is already gathering steam, even though the election is still more than two years away. Different political gladiators from Ogun Central and Ogun West are positioning themselves for a shot at the number one seat.
For Ogun West, this is another opportunity to break the long-standing jinx. Since 1999, the zone has watched as Ogun East and Ogun Central take turns in the Oke Mosan Governor’s Office.
Rumours are swirling around Olayemi Cardoso, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), drawing unsettling parallels to his predecessor, Godwin Emefiele. Whispers of exorbitant consultancy fees, opaque appointments, and disregard for due process have sparked outrage, and are currently raising questions about the apex bank’s integrity and leadership.
At the centre of the storm are two consultants, Nkiru Balonwu and Daphne Dafinone. Names previously unknown to the public that changed quickly upon the report that they are earning monthly figures of N50million and N35million respectively. Without question, this has ignited fury as these figures, dwarfing the salaries of seasoned directors, have left many questioning the value they bring to the apex bank.
Among the key figures from Ogun West, Senator Solomon Adeola, also known as Yayi, stands out. His influence has grown significantly since securing a senatorial seat for Ogun West in 2023. A seasoned politician with deep pockets and strong political networks, he is seen as the man to beat—if he decides to run. For now, he plays the waiting game, insisting it is “too early” to talk about 2027.
Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI) is another contender from Ogun West. Having contested three times without success, he is no stranger to the battlefield. Now a federal lawmaker under the APC, he may finally have the political backing he previously lacked. But will Ogun West rally around him, or will history repeat itself with divided support?
The consultants’ influence allegedly extends beyond their paychecks. They reportedly issue directives, bypass senior officials, and operate with nearsovereign authority. Their presence on the eleventh floor, alongside the governor, while deputy governors occupy the tenth, symbolizes a troubling shift in the bank’s hierarchy.
The hiring process for these consultants has also come under scrutiny. Nigeria’s Public Procurement Act mandates transparency, yet no advertisements or competitive screenings were conducted. Their appointments, shrouded in opacity, violate statutory procedures, eroding trust in the institution.
Deputy Governor Noimot SalakoOyedele is also in the mix. While she has not openly declared an interest, her strategic positioning within the administration keeps her name on the list of possible successors. Some believe her real target is the Senate, but in politics, even the most reluctant player can be drawn into the game if the conditions are right.
Senior staff, including directors and deputy governors, have allegedly expressed growing disillusionment. It is reported that many feel sidelined by these consultants, whose roles lack clarity and measurable deliverables. Apparently, as one official is reported to have lamented, “They are not adding value. The governor is enriching friends at the expense of meritocracy.”
From Ogun Central, the Egba people are making a case for continuity. Names like Dimeji Bankole, Lanre Tejuosho, and Wale Edun are being whispered in political circles, but the shadows from Senator Ibikunle Amosun’s past leadership might make handing power to Ogun Central a difficult choice for the other districts.
The implications are dire. The CBN’s credibility, which is crucial for investor confidence and economic stability, is at risk. Legal experts and civil society groups have condemned the breaches, warning of long-term damage to Nigeria’s financial governance.
As the scandal unfolds, the question remains: Will Cardoso address these concerns, or will the CBN succumb to the same pitfalls that marred Emefiele’s tenure? The answer will determine whether the bank restores its foundation or becomes another cautionary tale of institutional decay.
Then, there is the wildcard—Ladi Adebutu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Having contested against Abiodun in 2023, he remains a factor. But with the APC firmly in control of the state, his path to victory may be steep. Will power remain in Ogun East, shift back to Ogun Central, or finally move to Ogun West? In 2027, the people of Ogun will decide.
olorunfemi
Cardoso
Umeoji
Abiodun
Innocent ‘2Baba’ Idibia: please Don’t
Now, now? That was what was in most people’s mouths as we approached the one year anniversary of the demise of the
and
In one year, a lot has happened. His Access Bank has achieved so many milestones including being amongst the very first to cross the CBN’s capital hurdle. It has also made very giant strides in the international market and its seamless leadership change following his demise has kept the boat steady.
His Wigwe University has matriculated its first set of students and for all intent and purposes, is running well.
As it is with life, there remains a dark spot. Some members of his biological family are not too happy
This 2Baba drama is embarrassing me o. That was how I carried his matter to Aunty Ruth Osime’s programme, Perspective, on ARISE NEWS Channel, and defended him against onslaughts from the female world. They had been accusing him of grooming, manipulating women and impregnating them the way a farmer plants corn on a fertile land.
The panel was rich. Aunty Ruth had put together a strong team – Madam Laila, a worldclass relationship expert and Blessing CEO, a very popular social media activist.
My strategy was clear - since I was overpowered, I was just shouting “ he is a victim, he is the one being manipulated.” All their arguments ended up with me screaming, he is a victim o.
After the show, all the men in the studio carried me high on their shoulders in praise for being a champion of Nigerian men. On the streets, you would think I was part of a Nigerian World Cup winning team. People were hugging me on the road, shaking my hands and thanking me for giving men a voice.
At a party later that day, one old man called me out and said “Duke, I like the things you say on
with the way things are going. I do not want to be dragged into the matter even though I was pulled in on the back of my play in which I paid a glowing tribute to the icon and begged for professionals to be allowed to run his legacy institutions.
For my efforts, na abuses I get. Some members of his emotional family went on rampage, issued a disclaimer on social media, called me a thief and averred “dem don pay you.”
It was really sad. But it is ok. When my wife Mena died, that was how her sisters came after me the very next day. The woman hadn’t even settled down in her grave when the accusations started- you killed her, she was depressed, she suffered in your hands, come and park her car
ARISE TV, please come and hug me,” and I did. Now, 2Baba has bursted my bubbles by announcing “Abeg make una help me beg her, I want marry her.”
Innocent Idibia, is something the matter with you? What’s all of these na? Even if you are a great “Sower,” e never reach to slow down? Abi are you pursuing Abiola or Fela for this matter?
You never even comot for one finish, following the “kata kata” you have been causing, you don jump enter another one, and not only enter, we are hearing rumours of “we don get belle,” thereby disrupting the peaceful co-habitation of PDP and APC members of the Edo House of Assembly.
I think the DSS should now enter this matter because if care is not taken, this man can use that his “kini” to destabilise the nation o.
Please my people, I hereby resign my membership of team 2Baba, even me don tire.
The man is not on any mission, he is “konji” driven. This one is like those “beware of dog” signs people put on their gates. We should all put “beware of 2Baba” signs on our gates, offices, and public spaces to protect our women. I don tire.
in my house, your son is no longer your son, you must not marry again.
If those ones can come and fight me, me that has only N12,000 in my account then, you can imagine what is going on in this case.
It was my great in-law, the erudite Professor Mowete, my dear Mena’s elder brother who said to me at the height of the turmoil: “Edgar, people react to grief differently. This could be my sisters’ way of reacting to their own grief. Be a father to them and just ignore and be silent.”
Of course, I did not take the advice o. Me from Shomolu, that is not how they trained us o.
But in this case, as he no concern me, I will say to all – please let’s all calm down and sheathe the swords,
let’s not react to this grief in this way because it will erode the very good works of Wigwe who lived a different kind of life. Thank you.
NNAmDI KANU - FeNDI ‘FIeND’ STrIKeS
Don’t talk when I’m talking. That was the ferocious Nnamdi Kanu in his ubiquitous designer gab screaming at his lawyers in fury Those ones cowered and mumbled a little apology and turned to his back to kneel down and wait for further instructions.
He didn’t have their time yet as he focused his fury on the judge, the prosecution and the Nigerian state This why I fight for Biafra, he thunders as he renders the courtroom into an avenue for the dissipation of his frustration.
HerBerT wIgwe: oNe YeAr AFTer
iconic Herbert Wigwe, his beautiful wife
lovely son.
Abubakar
obasanjo
wigwe
Idibia
Those ones, too, have not even tried. Multiple adjournments and different court orders flying around gave this self-styled freedom fighter an avenue to rant and behave badly. The point is very simple, if the man has a case to answer, let him answer it and if he doesn’t let us move on. This thing is too long and if we continue like this, Nnamdi will soon slap his lawyers o. He was asking how much they paid the ‘whole SAN’, leading us to also ask how much he is paying his lawyers so that he can be talking to them like that, too.
That episode was epic in its odium, but then again, who wouldn’t if you continue to be turned in and out on a matter that is literally almost straightforward? By the way, the way he keeps wearing that one designer suit, the brand owners will soon beg him to remove the thing - it’s too much. Can someone please just smoothen this process so we can put an end to this sordid matter once and for all? We have a country to build. Thank you.
OlUmIDe ‘SeAKINg’ OgUNSANwO: NOT HelpINg THe CAUSe
I know some of us here will never have heard of this boy. But let me introduce you to him. He is a wannabe critic who has evolved a very nasty style. He is very abusive, rude, uncouth and insultive. He uses words like “bastard,” “Oloshi,” “Oloriburuku,” “agbaya oshi,” and a whole lot of vile words on his targets. This is highly abhorrent and must not be encouraged. I support his arrest especially as he has not shown any form of remorse. You cannot hide under free speech to verbally assault people. He is not the only one that is “vexing,” we are all here vexing but you don’t see us using those kinds of words on elders and adversaries.
That, in my book, is assault and there are laws that have been designed to curb this. If you are not lettered enough to join the cause, then don’t distract us with all this talk that is capable of making the opposition lose traction. Please, somebody should put a tape on this boy’s mouth, we really do not need his vile and uncouth contributions. Thank you.
ATIKU AbUbAKAr, leAve bAbA AlONe
Although it was billed as a private meeting and Alhaji Abubakar after the meeting also said it was a private meeting but we know better. Forces are beginning to align and realign towards 2027. Shebi Kwankwaso has gone to visit Aregbesola, El-Rufai is making some familiar noises and Wike is revving his machines, things are beginning to happen.
So, anybody who believes that this meeting between these two elders is a private meeting really should go and recheck their brain.
But my own opinion is that Atiku should allow Baba to enjoy his retirement from politics. Atiku himself should also consider retirement. He has tried and I do not think he has anything to offer again. For me, the whole thing is looking like those people that used to play “pool.” Not snooker o, those pool betting our Papas used to play. It was so addictive that they would play to their graves. It looks like the activities around politicking is so addictive to Atiku
that he now does not even know when to pull the plug and wants to infect Baba with the virus. Baba that has been inoculated.
Atiku should go and gently sit down. He should open a power house like Chattam House where
people will come and be delivering papers or seeking his advice. That way, he can contribute much more value to the process instead of this one that he wants to continue contesting till he reaches 100 years. My people, long and short of all
IS bAbAjIDe SANwO-OlU IN TrOUble?
This is one issue nobody wants to talk about very openly. All my sources within Alausa will just do their face one kind and face their amala once I bring up the topic.
But if you listen very closely to the termites and soldier ants within the system, you will hear things. Apparently, my brother is said to be in an uncomfortable position with the establishment and this may have buoyed the Obasa person to the point that he started pointing fingers at the governor and making some irascible statements like – those that are governors are not better than me. The whole thing came to a head with his impeachment which we have seen did not go well with the source of all of their powers. Pressure to return him was immense but the house and some elements of the GAC stood their ground and it’s looking like Mr Obasa will have to make do with being just a floor member.
But all of these have thrown Mr. Governor up again as his future seems uncertain. In my discussion with a top former member of the Lagos Assembly who should know – he didn’t see Sanwo-Olu playing any role after his tenure. He was very categorical when he said “Well, he has done his own for eight years, he should go and rest.”
Let me say my own at this juncture. This is a system that eats or attempts to eat its best and most brilliant children. It tried to eat Fashola, ate up Ambode and is now pouring Maggi
and Ketchup all over Sanwo-Olu in preparation to eat him.
The sad thing is that the system has an uncanny way of throwing up the most brilliant and then we fall in love with them and when they start performing, they immediately begin to gnaw at them with the aim of neutralising them.
This is because the very brilliant ones are surrounded by soldiers who are barely literate, not policy driven but driven by banal instincts of primitive survival so they form a bulwark against brilliance and begin to whittle it down.
Sanwo-Olu is the latest in the long line and I must say that if they succeed or if all of these is true, then the system would once again be pouring on itself another bucket of rotten tomatoes. Sanwo-Olu has given his best to the system and the people of Lagos. He has shown passion, energy and brilliance. He has made his own mistakes but overall, he has driven Lagos into the next level in infrastructure, health, agriculture –with his Lagos rice thingy and also positioning Lagos to the point that it is now a major destination in global tourism with its “detty” December jamborees.
Talks about his not finishing his tenure or sidelined after, just shows the narrow-mindedness of a system that has conquered us. It’s all just so sad, very sad.
They can come and beat me; I don’t care because I already feel beaten with all of these shenanigans. Sad.
these my talks, is for Atiku to just go and siddon jeje. Simple.
bOlA ObASANjO AS mUmmY IN THe HOUSe
This is what every man must consider in taking a wife. A woman who can represent him very brilliantly at huge events. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo being bugged down by an unexpected activity sent his lovely wife, Mrs Bola Obasanjo to represent him at a massive book launch in Lagos. My brother, Dr. Austin Ebose, was launching his new book on Entrepreneurship and Leadership at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island. In attendance were such greats like Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Gen Ike Nwachukwu and Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, a former Minister of Health.
Mummy took it all o. She grabbed the audience’s attention as she read her husband’s speech while interspersing it with her own words and innuendoes. The hall was in chaos as she regaled us with one innuendo after the other.
When she said: “If Mathew Aremu was here, you all would buy this book, you know what he could have done,” the hall erupted in raucous laughter.
It was a grand event and we all had fun. The musical giant Patoranking made good of himself and Dr Ebose also took the stage to show some brilliance. Dr Abati was the book reviewer and I Joseph Edgar was Chairman Planning Committee.
AKINwUmI ADeSINA: DON’T belIeve THe HYpe
My brother may have started believing all that talk linking him to the presidency. In an interview monitored in Lagos, it was looking like he was averring to the possibility of joining the race. My brother, this race is not for “Ajebutter” o. This race is for “aje pako.” Our system was not designed for fine gentlemen o. I think in recent history, only Donald Duke came with your imagery to defeat the system. People like Dr. Kayode Fayemi also tried but those ones still had some grain of “agbero” in them. But you, I doubt that you can even shakara anybody. Can you even jump on top molue in motion? Have you ever heard of Shomolu? Do you know where mallams used to do suya in Ibadan or where they used to catch snails in Oron?
My brother, make we dey wear bow ties and suits all over the global conference circuits. Na there, we get power and forget about this ambition. It cannot work, it will not work. Thank you.
KAYODe FAYemI: HAppY bIrTHDAY bOSS
Let me quickly say a happy birthday to my egbon. The last time I saw him was in his house when I went to beg for money for the ‘Fajuyi’ play.
The discussions were deep and rich and I was better for it. I left there very happy and he came for the play and I hugged him. Happy birthday, sir and I also would like to use this opportunity to wish you a truly healthy and long life. The good thing is that Ekiti people used to live long o, so that is a given, but also very importantly, may you be allowed by “your people” to continue to contribute very meaningfully to our people. We still need you sir.
Sanwo-Olu
Greg Uanseru’s wife Set to Go Home
Oil magnate Greg Uanseru glided from the lowest rung of the ladder to the limelight. This is evident in the phenomenal growth of his business, GCA Energy Limited.
Describing the consummate business mogul as a man with a heart of gold is not enough. He chose humanitarianism as a passion, and this has also become a second skill, which he does effortlessly without batting an eyelid.
However, as they say, being a good person won’t stop you from making mistakes; it doesn’t guarantee immunity from facing challenges, experiencing setbacks, or encountering difficult situations in life. Also, the ways of God, it is said, are beyond human comprehension. Sometimes, you encounter some experiences which tend to make you wonder if life is fair to you or not. Perhaps, this is the lot of the Edo State-born oil magnate, as he lost his wife in January, a few weeks after her 56th birthday.
For the zestful oil magnate, it’s sunset at noon of a radiant soul. In his household, Ema provided the matriarchal strength and spirit. She’s renowned for her elegance, warmth, and unwavering support to her family and community.
After tons of condolences from hundreds of personalities, the Edoborn Chairman of GCA Energy Limited, early this week, released the funeral programme for his late wife.
According to the programme, Ema would be buried in Lagos. The funeral will begin with a Service of Songs/Tribute Night on Thursday, February 27, at The Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, from 5pm. The funeral service will be held from 10am on Friday, February 28 at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Rose of Sharon Parish, Adekunle Fajuyi Way, GRA Ikeja, Lagos. She will then be interred at a private affair for family members only.
Douye Diri and His ‘Side-Chic’
If there is anything that is of utmost importance to the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri at the moment, it is the celebration of his fifth anniversary in office.
Already, the state is agog with sundry activities to mark the day in grand style.
Among political observers, Diri has continuously kept to his electoral promises to better the lot of the people of the state. Little wonder, he has wormed his way into the hearts of many in the state.
Amidst the prevailing atmosphere of jollity, the governor is slightly miffed over the trending news of his alleged romantic dalliance with a former reality TV star, Nengi Hampson.
Rumour mills also alleged that the Bayelsa State Governor is expecting a child with the
to the envy of many when he became a senator on the platform of the then Alliance for Democracy (AD). He also belonged to the class of the highly privileged few
26-year-old ex-Big Brother Naija star.
However, both the governor and Nengi have refuted the claims, even as the latter has confirmed her status as an expectant mother.
Though the model was appointed as the Senior Special Assistant on Girl Child Development to the governor, credible sources confirmed to Society Watch that the purveyors of the fake news are not happy with the towering political profile of the governor, hence the “wicked rumour.”
The source, who spoke under anonymity, said: “Political enemies of His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, are at work again. What a wicked set of people spreading wicked rumour and falsehood on a day the Prosperity Administration commenced activities marking its 5th anniversary!”
instant kiss of death.
who had the ears of President Bola Tinubu, who was then the governor of Lagos State.
As proof that he was not just a lightweight at the upper chamber of the National Assembly, he was, at different times, appointed to the committees on Aviation, Foreign Affairs, Women Affairs, Public Accounts and Federal Character. Indeed, he also enjoyed a robust relationship with the then President of the Senate, Alloysus Wabara.
Now, let’s take a cursory look at the flip side of his political adventure: In 2007, he literally played Oliver Twist when he began to manifest traces of an over-ambitious man. Many say he was under some illusion over the dummy sold to him by sycophants or political hangers-on.
He dreamt of becoming the governor of Lagos State, while Tinubu was interested in Babatunde Fashola, SAN. All entreaties to make him forego his political ambition fell on deaf ears. Determined to actualise his dream, he dumped the AD and pitched his tent with the defunct All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP). It was a wrong political move, which he expectedly paid dearly for. His ambition to be the number one citizen in Lagos received an
w ho w ants Oba Akinruntan Dead?
This is no fable from the heart of a crazy fiction writer. It is as clear as daylight. But what is most surprising is why anyone would want or wish Nigeria’s highly revered monarch and businessman, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan dead. This is the question presently agitating the minds of Nigerians and his loved ones.
Last Monday, many were startled when the purported death of the Olugbo of Ugboland was reported by some media outlets.
It was gathered that some of his subjects were panic-stricken, with growing anxiety in the Ondo community over the reports. However, his children’s silence sparked off some spontaneous reactions that pulled the plug on the death rumour.
One of his sons, Prince Akinfemiwa Akinruntan swung into action, describing the news as ‘’a hoax’’ and a lie from the pit of hell.
The Ugbo prince debunked the death rumour of the oil magnate, saying he is alive, hale and hearty. This reportedly put paid to the horrible speculation and calmed the anxieties of his subjects as well as well-wishers.
Society Watch gathered that the king, who
Usman Ododo’s voyage into the Kogi State Government House is a profound reflection of key virtues, such as patience, loyalty, resilience, grace, and strong character. His rise is not just a matter of political ambition; many believe it was divinely ordained. Since assuming office, he has approached governance
is also an oil monarch, has been in the UK since December 2024, hence the death rumour. It was also revealed that he was indisposed and received treatment at an undisclosed hospital in the UK. However, a source disclosed that there is nothing to worry about, though, as the king is now fully recovered and back in his London home.
Since the well-connected business mogul became the Olugbo of Ugboland, he has put the name of the riverine community on the world map with several projects, such as the eyepopping palace.
In 2014, the flamboyant and colourful traditional ruler was ranked by Forbes magazine as the second-richest King in Africa and the richest in Nigeria. He has a custom-built 2012 Rolls Royce like that of Queen Elizabeth II.
Aside from the oil and gas business, Oba Akinruntan is also into real estate. He has choice buildings in London and across Nigeria, including the prestigious Febson Hotels and Mall in the Central Business District of Abuja.
The stylish Oba, who sits atop a business
At the fullness of time, he retraced his steps, swallowed the humble pie and went to Tinubu, his hat in hands he was again received back into the fold with open arms by Tinubu, who ensured his appointment as commissioner under Governor Fashola.
Although many derided him for that singular action, Afikuyomi saw it differently, maintaining that it was in the line of service to his fatherland. Soon, he was dropped by Fashola.
But driven by the desire to remain relevant politically, he worked briefly with Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola as a Special Adviser. But it was just a fleeting ‘romance,’ as he later moved to London.
After the hiatus, he planned to return to the Senate to replace his successor, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, from the Lagos West Senatorial District. But it turned out to be a dashed hope. However, the former lawmaker is now out of the cold and has heaved a sigh of relief, as he was recently appointed as Board Chairman of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP).
conglomerate with interests in petroleum, shipping, construction, fishery, tourism and hospitality, consultancy services and water purification and production, owns one of the most expensive yachts in the country.
Usman Ododo’s Key Virtues
with a profound sense of humility, prioritising the welfare of the people of Kogi State. Under his leadership, the state has experienced significant progress, with initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, enhancing education, and boosting economic development.
His story resonates with those who appreciate the power of perseverance and integrity in leadership. It serves as a reminder that true greatness often comes from maintaining one’s values and staying committed to public service, even in the face of challenges.
For the governor, politics is an act of service, and one thing he wanted most in his life was an avenue to serve his people and lead them to a greater and better future. Since he got the plum job, he has hit the ground running announcing his cabinet members almost immediately, a sign that he is ready for the job he campaigned for.
He wasted no time on frivolities and also came prepared, just like the Boy Scouts’ slogan. He immediately set his blueprint to further put Kogi on the path of prosperity in terms of
infrastructural development. While he does not like to court the media like many of his peers, he has also successfully exhibited a trait of allowing his achievements to speak for him. While many of his enemies are wailing about his supposed slow start; Ododo was busy working around the clock to bring the dividend of democracy to his people. In just one year in office, Governor Ododo has significantly elevated the standards of development across multiple sectors, including agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, workers’ welfare, and security. Under his leadership, Kogi has witnessed remarkable advancements, notably the distribution of N316 million in student bursaries, benefiting over 8,700 students. This initiative highlights his unwavering dedication to educational equity, as he passionately strives to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to quality learning opportunities.
Nengi and Diri
Afikuyomi
Oba Akinruntan
There was a time when Tokunbo Afikuyomi was one of the most powerful men in power in the political circle. His profile rose,
Uanseru
A publicAtion
Fond Memories of Dak’Art and the Mourning After
For the Lagos-based collector, eyamba Dafinone, an odyssey to showcase african art at the 15th Dakar Biennale was fraught with challenges and triumphs and ultimately marred by the mysterious theft of her priceless artworks. okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports
Days of anxious waiting had dissolved into a haze of uncertainty by the time, on December 27, 2024, Eyamba Dafinone finally received the news from Lagos: The packaged items, meant to arrive with her from Dakar on December 17, had reached the city the night before at 10 p.m.—ten days after her return. Little wonder, then, that the memory of those fraught days still haunted her like a persistent spectre, refusing to fade despite Abuja’s tranquil holiday allure. She had come to the federal capital to celebrate Christmas, but the nagging unease that gripped her in Lagos clung like a shadow, an unseen presence lingering at the edge of her consciousness.
Amidst the disquiet in the wake of her arrival, the Lagos-based art collector’s anxiety had sharpened to a blade’s edge. For days, her staff had besieged Murtala Muhammed International Airport with enquiries about the parcels. When news of their arrival finally came, she dispatched her team, but a nagging sense of unease lingered, like a shadow in a hidden recess of her mind. The feedback from her team struck like a cold splash: 19 parcels instead of 20 were found! Her worst fears thus confirmed, she watched the video footage, her mind racing with the implications, and a wave of outrage washing over her. The evidence was unmistakable: the cases had been tampered with, the once-pristine packaging now bearing the scars of meddling hands. With a deepening sense of foreboding, Mrs Dafinone instructed her team to conduct a meticulous headcount. The suitcases were opened, and the items were carefully tallied. The result was a stark confirmation of her suspicions—23 bronze heads had been shipped, but only 20 remained. It is, therefore, not hard to imagine the scenario that trailed the revelation of the missing pieces: a gaping chasm, a sense of desolation that seemed to suck the air out of the room. The video recordings, meticulously documenting each item, now served as a scathing indictment. The evidence was clear—someone had helped themselves to three priceless bronze heads.
New details emerged as the full extent of the theft began to unravel, and the picture that formed was increasingly disturbing. Besides the three priceless bronze heads, four paintings had also vanished, including two belonging to Gbolahan Ayoola. This revelation only strengthened her resolve: she would leave no stone unturned in her quest to track down the missing pieces and bring the perpetrators to justice.
It all began with her attendance at the milestone event: the 15th edition of the Dakar Biennale, themed “The Wake—L’Éveil.” This prestigious biennial art exhibition was held at the historic Ancien Palais de Justice on Cap Manel, overlooking the ocean. Davsien Gallery and Ndikama Museum, both owned by her, collaborated to feature works of three Nigerian artists: Ebenezer Akinola, Gbolahan Ayoola, and Gerald Chukwuma. Through their art, these visionaries wove unique narratives that explored historical contexts. As participants in the Biennale’s OFF exhibitions, the two galleries presented a profound exploration of Africa’s artistic history.
Apparently, the exhibition of the three Nigerian artists was overseen by Davsien Gallery. Meanwhile, the Ndikama Museum, based in Victoria Island, Lagos, enriched the exhibition by presenting cultural artefacts that highlighted the metamorphosis of art from the ancient Igbo Ukwu period to contemporary expressions. The impact was lasting: comments in the comments book corroborated the exhibition’s profound effect on its attendees.
Originally slated for May 16 to June 16, 2024, the biennale was postponed to new dates—November 7 to December 7—due to the tumultuous political climate and a shift in cultural leadership.
She had left Lagos for Dakar on November 6, aboard an Air Peace flight, just a day before the Biennale’s official opening. But the 525 kilogrammes of artworks she was supposed to bring along didn’t make the trip. Despite
repeated attempts, the airline turned down her requests to transport the exhibits. So, she had to wait for her team to arrive with the artworks and anxiously awaited their arrival. But the news she received was disheartening. Her team had been barred from travelling due to issues with their ECOWAS travel documents. The airport staff informed them that biometric cards were required, but attempts to obtain them had failed.
Eventually, after the works were brought to the Senegalese capital, they were set up at the former Chancellery of the Nigerian Embassy in Dakar. This historic building on Avenue Cheikh Anta Diop was transformed into a vibrant exhibition space. The old consulate required extensive renovations, undertaken at the organisers’ own expense. On November 15, 2024, the exhibition “The Metamorphosis of African Art” debuted to a distinguished audience of seven ambas-
sadors and several other dignitaries. Elegance and sophistication filled the evening air. The guest list was a veritable who’s who of the diplomatic corps, with esteemed attendees from various fields. Thus, two cocktail parties, hosted by Ndikama and Davsien on November 15 and 30, respectively, brought together art enthusiasts, diplomats, and other influential figures, fostering a spirit of cultural exchange and appreciation. The rest of the Biennale for Dafinone was a whirlwind of activity. She met prominent collectors and the Biennale organisers, who had previously hosted the Ndary Lô exhibition. On the Sunday that followed, a milestone event unfolded: the vernissage of renowned architect Pierre Atepa Goudabi, marking 50 years of his architectural practice.
Back to the exhibition, it turned out to be a treasure trove of historical richness, showcasing works that spanned an impressive 1,200 years, from the 9th century to 2024. This groundbreaking display of African art was a resounding success, unveiling a fresh perspective on the fusion of tradition and modernity. According to Eyamba Dafinone, the exhibition was “an introduction to a presentation or an exhibition highlighting an art collection on the theme of Metamorphosis.”To complement the exhibition, a panel discussion brought together esteemed panellists, including renowned Senegalese journalist Adama Gaye, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Dakar, Nigerian artist Ebenezer Akinnola, Senegalese curator Idrissa Diallo, and Eyamba Dafinone herself. This discussion added another layer of depth to the exhibition, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.
Meanwhile, concerted efforts are underway to recover the missing artworks, which were carefully packed and loaded onto a plane. To facilitate their return, a report was filed with the authorities, and the Minister of Culture was informed. As part of these ongoing efforts, a subsequent trip to Dakar was made on January 25 to meet with the Director of Culture and pursue a planned collaboration with local artists, which also provided an opportunity to follow up on the incident and expedite the recovery process.
The missing bronze heads...
Dafinone
An Artistic Celebration of African Culture
Yinka Olatunbosun
Inside rele Gallery, Ikoyi, a sprawling array of artworks awaits. From warm-coloured, motif-layered paintings to large abstract pieces, the walls pulsate with the vibrant energy of young african creatives. This emotional resonance, cultivated over the years since the show’s inception in 2015, is unmistakable—a reflection of the power of art to evoke and connect.
More importantly, it’s an exhibition that keeps pace with rele Gallery’s commitment to artist development in africa, marking the return of the acclaimed young Contemporaries series. The show, renowned for mentoring and promoting early-career artists from africa, showcases the boundless capacity of art to unite people across cultures. On January 18, a special opening event drew a large crowd of young art collectors, who gathered in an atmosphere of camaraderie, raising their glasses to the beauty of visual expressions.
Six young African artists from Nigeria, South africa, and Zimbabwe presented a rich mosaic of culture, identity, and shared experiences in their pieces. Marking a decade of nurturing young talents, the rele arts Foundation celebrates its 10th edition of the young Contemporaries project against the backdrop of the exhibition. The artworks on display were
EXHIBITION
born out of a residency in Ekiti State, and are deeply rooted in the region’s history and cultural richness. exploring themes such as identity, migration, and cultural preservation, the young artists showcased their diverse artistic styles using various
mediums. Through this exhibition, the rele Arts Foundation reaffirms its commitment to empowering emerging artists and promoting the rich cultural heritage of africa.
Nzubechukwu Ozoemena, a trained architect turned artist, is showing seven pieces that blend figuration and abstraction. His beautiful pieces speak to universal themes of grief and solidarity in layered abstract composition like “Fellowship with the Downtrodden.” Using religious iconography, his works resonate with shared human experiences. His works also explored themes of hope, family, and resilience, as seen in his piece titled “Moment of Joy, Why Won’t I Find Rest?”
as for Chinecherem Ifedilichukwu, his works delve into transgenerational cultural transmission using traditional textile techniques.
Shariff Bakare, a mixed-media experimental artist, critiques globalised economies through a piece like “Export Only” which addresses how Nigeria’s natural and human resources are often exported without benefiting the country. “Our gems and treasures are labeled ‘export only,’ and our youths are following the same trend. This shouldn’t be normalised,” he said.
bakare, a visual artist with specialty in sculptures from the University of Lagos noted that his current body of works are very experimental, while crediting his creative growth to his residency experience in ekiti, where he
explored gemstones and nature.
Progress Nyandoro from Zimbabwe blends her Shona roots with Ekiti influences in her vibrant textile pieces. Her artwork, Mutambo (Game) 2024, captures the essence of traditional wrestling she witnessed during the ekiti art Festival. “It’s a cultural exchange between Shona traditions and Nigerian heritage,” she noted.
Similarly, David Oba-Fidelis combines the mundane with the magical in his semiautobiographical pieces. His standout work, “When Time Stood Still,” evokes the nostalgia of childhood games. “I explore memories and a sense of belonging,” he explained, using Dutch wax fabric as a backdrop for his narratives.
Tshepo Sizwe Phokojoe, inspired by the bantu migration, uses jute sackcloth installations to map the shared history of african migration. In “Destination,” Phokojoe delves into the dynamics of human migration and cultural exchange. “I sought to uncover the shared threads that bind African nations,” he began. “My exploration of the bantu migration—the largest migration that spanned from the borders of Cameroon and Nigeria to east africa—piqued my curiosity about movement and cultural exchanges.”
The young Contemporaries 2025 exhibition transcends a showcase of talent; it ignites a dialogue on african identity, celebrates shared histories, and bridges cultural divides.
For Urban Music Flavours, Here’s an Afrocentric Epiphany
Yinka Olatunbosun
Global music fans are increasingly drawn to african music, particularly with the steady dominance of afrobeats, amapiano, and afrofusion on world music streaming platforms and charts. While music critics often point to cultural history as a driving force behind this success, fans would agree that the beat is a major part of the allure. until recently, the contributions of beatmakers, producers, and sound engineers have flown under the radar. However, as top beatmakers and DJs began producing their own collaborative projects featuring popular artists, their role in shaping the sound of new african music has become more apparent.
Jimmy Jatt exemplifies this trend, having assembled a legion of Nigeria’s hottest hip-hop and pop stars to deliver the 2016 album “The Definition.” Similarly, South African DJ and record producer DJ Maphorisa has been on a streak with his viral amapiano music collaborative projects.
In Nigeria, Whobaadblood, a fast-rising sound engineer, has emerged as a Nigerian equivalent to international heavyweights like DJ Khaled and Pharrell. On a mission to elevate eclectic african sounds, Whobaadblood has leveraged his ingenuity in the studio and beyond to create globally appealing music. His efforts have
MUSIC
earned him accolades, including being named Sound Engineer of the Year at The League of extraordinary achievers awards in 2024.
His latest eP, afrocentric, made a splash immediately after its release, garnering over 3,000 streams on Spotify within the first week. The momentum continued, with the eP racking up an impressive 39,000 streams on audioMack in barely two months. One standout track, “Jukpa,”
by A6ixx has been gaining significant airplay on radio, mesmerising listeners with its easy-flowing melody and mid-tempo beat. a6ixx’s vocals, delivered in a style reminiscent of burna boy, blend seamlessly with the infectious fusion of pop and Afrobeat. Sung in pidgin English, “Jukpa” is an unapologetic celebration of nightlife and lavish spending—a quintessential party banger laden with all the typical thematic trimmings. Similarly, Whobaadblood collaborates with Yomi Boss on “Confam,” a feel-good track that embodies the spirit of street hop. by blending Fuji vocalisation with Afrobeats, “Confam” cre-
ates a captivating sound that showcases yoruba and pidgin english lyrics. evoking the spirit of Wizkid’s classics, albeit with a cleaner sound, the track masterfully captures the city’s vibrant atmosphere and soulful pleas to a Supreme being. With its infectious hook and crisp rap verses, “Confam” is a street-worthy anthem that resonates deeply.
“My Girl” featuring Spokegizzy is Whobaadblood’s third track from the afrocentric eP. a seductive, in-between-the-sheets type of song, “My Girl” is still an Afrobeats song with elements of dancehall lyricism. The eP, in its totality, is like an epiphany of urban music flavours. before this much anticipated eP, Whobaadblood has been clawing his way out of oblivion to give voice to new artists using the instrument of show curation. He is the Convener of SneakerFest which is arguably the first and biggest Sneaker/ urban Cultural Festival in africa.
Having cited DJ Khaled as one of his influences, Whobaadblood serves as a lifeline for young artists yearning to be heard, amplifying fresh voices in the urban music scene. a musical powerhouse, he composes songs for artists while mixing and mastering tracks with finesse. His impact on the music industry is evident in SneakerFest, where he organises the RAP battle Contest and DJ battle. These competitions provide a platform for emerging talent, with the top eight contestants vying for the grand prize and coveted titles of rap battle Champion or DJ of the Year at SneakerFest.
The Bogobiri Inferno and the Aftermath
Okechukwu Uwaezuoke
recent Facebook posts from celebrated photographer and artist bolaji alonge, his Belgian-born wife Sandra, and art gallery owner Chike Nwagbogu have confirmed the devastating news: bogobiri House, the iconic boutique hotel on Maitama Sule Street in Ikoyi, Lagos, was ravaged by a fire on Saturday, January 18, reportedly sparked by an electrical fault. This loss will resonate deeply with culture enthusiasts, for whom bogobiri House was a beloved haven.
“As we landed in Lagos last night, Bogobiri House was burning down due to a presumed electrical fault,” Alonge, who popularised the Eyes of a Lagos Boy brand, said in his Facebook post. “Fortunately nobody was hurt and the firefighters contained the fire so no other buildings were affected.”
Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, confirmed that her team
TRIBUTE
extinguished the fire at Bogobiri House, 9 Maitama Sule Street, Ikoyi, Lagos, which erupted around 8:06 pm. Eyewitnesses described how firefighters from the Dolphin and ebute elefun Fire Crews bravely confined the blaze to its originating floor, saving the rest of the building and neighbouring properties. Miraculously, no one was injured, and lives were spared.
For alonge wife and his wife, bogobiri House, a vibrant hub where creativity thrived, was more than just a haven—it was their “second home,” where they celebrated their marriage and created countless memories. Though ruing the fact that the fire consumed not only some of their belongings but also a piece of their hearts, they were not insensitive to the immesurable impact on its owners, staff, and the Lagos art community.
As the investigation into the fire’s cause continues, shockwaves ripple across the local culture community. The outpouring of sympathies and solidarity on Facebook has been immense.
Chike Joseph Nwagbogu, founder of Nimbus art Centre, where bogobiri House was born, took to Facebook to express heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love, sympathy, and encourage-
ment from well-wishers worldwide.
“This avalanche of goodwill has doused the flames of regret and recoloured the entire tragedy, transforming it into an opportunity to send a clarion call for community activism and unity into the world,” he wrote. “As we remember the great civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr in this month of January, the time has come for us to relocate the sacred sanctuary from the elevated pulpit and onto [the] streets level. This in order to implement real change where it is most needed in our communities and touch the lives of the most vulnerable. We have been out organised and out gunned but not outnumbered nor out thought as the great outpouring of emotions and love at the demise of the bogobiri has shown.
“That which was once a symbol of the cultural charisma of the Negus of old will be fully restored by the collective effort of the community in which it existed and diligently served for over twenty years. This will act as a catalyst for a Nationwide Metanoia (renewal of the mind) destined to reposition ordinary people at the forefront of global cultural activism.
One of the works at the exhibition
Whobaadblood
Bogobiri House after the inferno
IN THE ARENA
Rethinking Academics’ Role in Electoral Process
The use of academics for elections in Nigeria is under scrutiny following the convictions of two professors for election fraud and the ignoble role of others in aiding and abetting electoral malpractices, Davidson Iriekpen writes
Last week brought some good news for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) when an Akwa Ibom State High Court in Uyo, the state capital sentenced Professor Ignatius Uduk of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO) to three years in prison for electoral fraud committed during the 2019 general election.
Uduk, a Professor of Human Kinetics, served as Collation/Returning Officer for Essien Udim State Constituency in March 2019. He stood trial on a three-count charge filed against him by INEC for announcing false results, publishing false results, and perjury.
The case suffered a series of delays and adjournments since it was filed in December 2020. But delivering judgment last week, Justice Bassey Nkanang held that the prosecution counsel, Clement Onwuewunor, discharged the burden of proof that the defendant published false election results when he served as Collation/Returning Officer.
The judge discharged and acquitted the defendant on count one, but found him guilty of counts two and three. Nkanang sentenced the professor to three years on each of the two counts. Both terms are to run concurrently.
Uduk’s conviction and sentencing came four years after another academic, Peter Ogban, a Professor of Soil Science at the University of Calabar, was jailed for three years for a similar offence.
Ogban, who has served his three-year sentence, was the INEC returning officer for the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District election in 2019, when Senator Godswill Akpabio, now President of the Senate, was defeated by Christopher Ekpenyong, a former deputy governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Ekpenyong was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the poll, while Akpabio was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ogban was convicted and jailed for allegedly falsifying the results to help Akpabio in the election.
Akpabio had repeatedly disowned the professor and denied the allegation that the professor falsified election results in his favour
It would be recalled that one of the strategies introduced during the military regimes was the appointment of academics from Nigerian universities as chairman of INEC. When the country returned to democratic governance in 1999, the practice was sustained.
Professor Attahiru Jega, who was appointed INEC chairman by former President Goodluck Jonathan, expanded the practice to include the deployment of university academics as election
officials in the 2015 general election.
He saw it as part of the efforts to ensure the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.
Under the arrangement, vice-chancellors functioned as Returning Officers at the federal and state levels, while lecturers and other academics played roles at the local government level.
Jega believed the academics were an embodiment of integrity, who would be less susceptible to inducements by unscrupulous politicians who might try to corrupt electoral officials to subvert the will of the electorate.
Jega was also of the view that lecturers knew that their honour as members of the intelligentsia was at stake, and they would not easily soil their reputation and career by aiding electoral malpractices.
Justifying his decision, Jega said, “We were looking for people with integrity, and we have no doubt that there are many people with integrity in the Nigerian university system.
“It is like a ready-made constituency to get the kind of people we need for the job to be
done. That is not to say that only in the universities can you find people of integrity.
“We know that anybody who has risen in the system to become a vice chancellor will not for anything damage his or her reputation by pandering to the wishes of politicians.”
However, experience gathered from several elections has shown otherwise. It is now obvious that academics, like other professionals, are sucesptible to corruption.
Professors and other lecturers have been aiding electoral malpractices since the return to democracy in 1999.
Ironically, while reacting to the 2019 general election, Jega had expressed disappointment with university lecturers for “allegedly conniving with politicians to undermine the integrity and outcome of this year’s general elections”.
He made the observation at an event at Bayero University, Kano, where he was once Vice Chancellor and currently, a lecturer.
With the conviction of the two professors and the complaints against many others, it is obvious that not all academics are men of honour and character.
p OLITICAL NOT e S
Many who act as the commission’s returning officers at federal, state and local government levels have connived with politicians and their political parties to alter and write results in their favour. Even those with mathematics, engineering, business administration and accountancy backgrounds are known to have embarrassed themselves during the collation of election results by their inability to reconcile the figures due to the falsification of the figures.
Many who faulted Jega’s action then and questioned the yardstick used in choosing university dons as collation/returning officers by the commission believe they have been vindicated.
An analyst who requested anonymity said, “I really do not know how Jega arrived at the decision of making academic collation/returning officers.
“Are they the only saints in Nigeria? The same lecturers who are involved in sex-for-marks and other forms of corruption on campuses across the country? To me, it sounded absolutely ridiculous.” INEC has been facing criticism for toeing this path. It became worse after the last general election, particularly over the failure of the IReV platform.
The platform was central to post-election litigation, but the petitions challenging the results of most of these elections were dismissed by the tribunals and the courts.
Concerns have also been raised about the appointment of partisan individuals, card-carrying members of political parties and known allies of politicians into leadership roles in the commission.
Perhaps, that was why former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently said INEC needed institutional reforms. Obasanjo called for the sack of its chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, and other officials.
The commission which has been jubilating over the convictions of Professors Uduk and Ogban, knows very that there are other academics accused of infractions during 2019 and 2023 elections but does not have the courage to charge before the court.
As the commission prepares for the next general election in 2027, it behooves it to hinge on the appointment of election officials on character and integrity. The time to start headhunting credible individuals to conduct the elections as officials is now. It should cast its net wide to include other professionals in its search for honourable officials.
In addition, President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the National Assembly should do everything possible to provide a legal framework for the implementation of a wide range of reforms for the electoral body.
what are Governors Doing in Abuja?
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Joe Ajaero, last week raised the alarm that most governors have abandoned their states and permanently reside in Abuja at the detriment of the people of their states.
Ajaero, who spoke in Abuja, accused the state chief executive officers of abandoning the people they are supposed to govern who are feeling the heat of harsh economic realities with the high cost of living.
There have been growing indications that some governors in the country are governing their people from outside of their states.
The frequent absence of governors from their states has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that it hampers effective governance and development.
In 2023, a media outfit had listed mainly northern governors who had turned Abuja to their permanent residence and left their people to suffer the challenges of insecurity, hunger and lack of basic amenities to make life meaningful.
The frequent travels by these governors, no doubt, gulp huge resources in terms of private jets, hotel accommodations, allowances and other expenses.
The report also revealed that most of these governors do not hand over to their deputies but prefer to make most of the decisions of the state from wherever they are.
This is a violation of the constitutional provision that stipulates that a governor has a statutory duty to sit and ensure lives and property are secured and
protected. He is not expected to stay outside then state for more than two weeks because he is the Chief Security Officer of his state.
Recently, it was reported that President BolaTinubu expressed worries that most northern governors had relocated to Abuja instead of staying in their respective states to work for their people. Former senator, Shehu Sani, who made the revelation, noted the significance of such a comment coming from the nation’s highest office.
At a time when Nigerians are facing myriads of challenges, their leaders are supposed to be on ground to give them hope.
The question is: What are the governors really doing in Abuja?
Yakubu
BRIEFING NOTES
The Proposed State Creation Jamboree
For the National Assembly to encourage Nigerians to submit proposals for the creation of 31 new states, when the current 36-State
structure is becoming increasingly unsustainable is an indication that the ongoing constitution review may potentially end up as another jamboree as the previous exercises since 1999, e jiofor Alike writes
When the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio on February 14, 2024 constituted a 45-member Committee on Constitution Review chaired by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, many Nigerians believed that the federal lawmakers had learnt lessons from the previous constitution reviews that ended up as jamborees after gulping billions of naira of taxpayers’ money.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, also later inaugurated the 43-member committee at an inaugural ceremony and citizens’ engagement held on February 26, 2024 in Abuja and supported by Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
With the previous exercises ending without any meaningful amendments to the constitution, Nigerians had expected the federal lawmakers to focus on amendments on a variety of thematic areas, including the creation of state police, fiscal federalism and revenue allocation, judicial reforms, electoral reforms, reduction on cost of governance and other issues that would promote good governance and welfare of all persons in the country based on the principles of freedom, equality and justice.
But no sooner than the lawmakers kickstarted the process than the contentious and diversionary issue of state creation was allowed to take the centre stage.
For the lawmakers who understand the unsustainability of the current 36-state structure better than the average Nigerian to encourage the submission of proposals for the creation of 31 new states, defies all logics and gives the impression that the ongoing exercise was designed to potentially end up as another jamboree.
Various reports have shown that Lagos and Rivers states are perhaps the only two states out of the 36 states that have the capacity to generate the revenues that could sustain them without the monthly allocations from the Federation Account.
This provides enough justification for the federal lawmakers to discourage the agitation for the creation of new states and encourage proposals for constitutional amendments that could strengthen each of the existing states and make them financially viable and self-sustaining.
But the lawmakers ignored the lack of feasibility of new states and encouraged Nigerians to submit proposals, a booby trap that could potentially derail the entire exercise.
With every section of Nigeria claiming to be a
victim of injustice and marginalisation under the Nigerian federation, it is not surprising that Nigerians agitated for the creation of 31 additional states.
On February 6, 2025, the House of Representatives announced the receipt of proposals for the creation of 31 new states in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria.
A breakdown of the proposals showed that the North- central requested for the creation of seven states, including the upgrading of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to the status of a state.
In the North-east, proposals were received for the creation of four new states. In the North-west were proposals for the creation of five new states. South-east submitted proposals for the creation of five states. South-south submitted proposals for four new states. In the South-west, there were proposals for the creation of six new states.
Though the federal lawmakers understand the unviability of new states and the complexity of creating them, they have continued to give Nigerians hope that they were prepared to consider proposals that
comply with the stipulated guidelines.
However, well-meaning Nigerians who are committed to the efforts to correct the structural defects in the country have seen through what many described as this political deceit.
Condemnations have trailed this wild goose chase by the lawmakers.
The apex Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere and the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) had described the proposals as ridiculous.
The National Organising Secretary of Afenifere, Abagun Kole Omololu described it as a mere political exercise that will further weaken governance and deepen economic inefficiencies. He noted that many existing states rely heavily on federal allocations to survive.
“Turning every local government into a state is not the solution to Nigeria’s governance challenges. The real issue is not the number of states but the dysfunctional federal structure that has concentrated power at the centre, stifling regional development,” he said.
Afenifere urged the National Assembly to focus on constitutional reforms that would devolve power, return resource control to the regions, and grant
states the autonomy to develop at their own pace.
On its part, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) had also rejected the proposed creation of 31 new states.
The National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, Prof Tukur Muhammad-Baba, had reportedly stated that ACF was not in support of the proposed creation of new states due to the country’s complexity and the potential for creating more problems.
However, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, had insisted that more states should be given to the South-east to address the wrongs that had been done to the region.
National Publicity Secretary of the organisation, Ezechi Chukwu, while rejecting the proposed 31 states, argued that the South-east is the only zone with the least number of states.
“So, giving the South-east such a small number of five states in this bill when others that already have advantages orchestrated by successive governments before now are getting more states is quite unacceptable.”
On its part, the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), according to a media report, had stated that the creation of more states could be meaningful if all the geo-political zones in the country have equal states as agreed in the last constitutional conference.
The spokesman for PANDEF, Christopher Ominimini, however, questioned the viability of new states, pointing out that states should be created based on self-sustainability.
“If the creation of more states became necessary, it should be done equally across the board to level up with the North-West, which has seven states. Anything short of that would be a perpetuation of the injustice in the country,” he insisted.
Also contributing to the debate, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome, described it as a wasteful venture in the face of national issues confronting the socio-economic growth of the country, according to a statement he issued in Abuja.
“How can they be talking about creating additional 31 states when over two-thirds of the present states are unviable entities existing on life support and merely dependent on the federal centre for monthly oxygenation under section 162 of the 1999 Constitution?” he queried.
Many Nigerians believe that the lawmakers are fully aware that the charged political and sectional tensions in the country may not provide a conducive political environment for state creation but decided to embark on a political gimmick that could jeopardise the constitution review.
Notes for file e gbetokun’s e mpty, Unenforceable Directive
Nigerians are not new to the rhetoric of the successive Inspector Generals of Police on the dressing code of armed policemen.
So when they heard about the directive by the Inspector-General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, to police officers not to bear assault rifles when dressed in mufti, they immediately concluded that it would follow a similar pattern.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IG, who gave the directive during a virtual meeting, warned all tactical squads against the misuse of power and improper dressing, emphasising the importance of operating in approved uniforms.
“No operative should be seen carrying assault arms (rifles) while dressed in
civilian attire (mufti),” the IG said Nigerians have experienced brutality and other forms of rights violations, especially by the police officers attached to the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The SARS officers, often dressed in mufti, were heavily armed, appearing like kidnappers with no form of clear identification tags that could help in tracing their bases. That was why they easily committed a lot of atrocious acts without being held to account.
Their reign of brutality fuelled the #EndSARS protests which later turned violent in some cities in Nigeria.
Though SARS was disbanded, heavily armed police personnel still dress roughly in mufti, and most times in commercial buses and other unmarked vehicles that hide their identities.
With their rifles, they harass and arrest Nigerians in gestapo-style.
Successive IGs had warned against this improper dressing but the practice persisted.
Heavily armed policemen not only wear mufti with no form of identification, they also wear masks making it impossible to differentiate them from criminals.
The police authorities had also on many occasions ordered the withdrawal of the Mobile Police Force personnel attached to several Very Important Persons (VIPs) and the disbandment of roadblocks on major roads. But the more these orders or directives are given, the more Nigerians see a detachment of policemen with these VIPs and more roadblocks mounted on the roads.
This is why many Nigerians believe that IG Egbetokun’s latest directive is another empty rhetoric that won’t be adhered to.
egbetokun
Akpabio
Abbas
Should Attorney-General’s Office Be Split?
The House of Representatives is again considering a bill to separate the offices of the Attorney General of the Federation from that of the Minister of Justice, as well as the office of Attorney General from that of Commissioner of Justice in the states, after the failed efforts by the previous lawmakers to separate the two offices, wale Igbintad e writes
The House of Representatives is currently considering a bill to separate the offices of the Attorney General of the Federation from that of the Minister of Justice and the offices of the Attorney General from Commissioners of Justice of states.
The bill, co-sponsored by two Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers, Mansur Soro and Oluwole Oke, is receiving legislative input from the House Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu.
The bill is seeking alteration to Section 150 of the Constitution of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) with the introduction of sub-section 1 to read: “There shall be an Attorney-General of the Federation who shall be the Chief Law Officer of the Federation different from the person occupying the position of the Minister of Justice to be appointed by the President, subject to the confirmation of the Senate.”
Also, the bill seeks to introduce a sub-section to Section 195 of the Constitution. The new subsection to be introduced reads: “There shall be an Attorney-General for each state who shall be the Chief Law Officer of the State to be appointed by the governor, subject to the confirmation of the House of Assembly.”
Those in support of the separation have often argued that it will enhance efficiency in the dispensation of criminal justice, safeguard the public interest and deter abuse of legal process in public prosecution at both the federal and state levels.
In their views, the combined roles of the minister or commissioner for justice with the attorney general would bring about a conflict of interest. The bill, they noted, is intended to “eliminate the conflict, limit risks of political interference, boost public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system among others.”
The 1999 Nigerian Constitution names the Attorney-General as also the Minister of Justice. It has been this way since independence. The occupier of the office is the Chief Law Officer of the state as provided by the Constitution.
Pressure was mounted previously on former President Goodluck Jonathan to split the offices, but he eventually failed to assent to the amendment bill presented to him by the seventh Senate.
The Senate had also in 2017 voted in support of altering sections 150, 174, 174, 195, 211, 318 and the third schedule of the Constitution to separate the offices.
Section 174 provides the AGF powers over criminal prosecution and is perhaps one of the most publicly scrutinised aspects of his responsibility.
The calls for the separation of the offices were premised on the perceived influence of the executive on the occupier.
The argument is that those holding the office have been largely tainted with bias and corruption.
The occupier of the office operates as the Chief Law Officer of the federal government as against his true position as the Chief Law Officer of the Federation.
The Senate specifically said the amendment would create independent offices of the AGF and AGs of the states by insulating them from partisanship.
The Senate was backed by the House of Representatives, which also voted in its favour.
The bill, however, failed as it did not get the support of two-thirds (24) of the state Houses of Assembly as required by section 9 (2) and (3) of the Constitution which provides that before the National Assembly can pass an Act to amend the Constitution after the two-thirds majority of all the members of each chamber have voted in support, at least 24 Houses of Assembly must approve by a simple majority.
Although some believe that the offices of the Attorney General should simply be strengthened to allow for different departments handling distinct operations or issues of justice and law, others insist on the separation of the office into independent entities.
Those against the separation of the offices argued that such would amount to jurisprudential questions they said would stall cases in the court in seeking interpretations of whom between the Minister of Justice and the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation has “jurisdiction to either institute an action or carry out one function or the other.”
Others have also argued that separating the offices might not guarantee the efficiency of either the AGF or the Minister of Justice.
To them, the challenge is that those who have manned the offices in the past lacked knowledge of their roles and responsibilities. They added that those who have manned the offices, focused on their personal benefits and failed to represent the Nigerian people.
Those who spoke to THISDAY suggested that rather than separate the offices and create more ministries, the number of ministers be pruned.
They further argued that some countries in Europe do not have more than 15 ministers.
In an ideal society, they argued, the Attorney General represents the government for and on behalf of the citizens.
By implication, the office of the Attorney General is an office that represents the citizens at large using the instrument of the state.
Another insurmountable hurdle is to determine how the Attorney General is to be appointed.
Is he to be appointed by the government, or the populace via popular election or by the Nigerian Bar Association?
If the Attorney General were to be appointed by the president, the occupant of the office is likely to suffer from the likelihood of bias and show deference to the executive arm of government that the present occupier of the two offices is being accused of.
A former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mohammed Bello Adoke, who occupied the seat between 2010 and 2015, agreed that the office be split into two.
Writing in his new book, ‘Burden of Service: Reminiscences of Nigeria’s Former Attorney-General,’ Adoke said: “This is because when acting as Attorney-General, he is answerable to no one but his conscience and the interest of justice, but while in his capacity as minister, he must take directives from the president and do the President’s bidding.”
According to him, there is always a conflict of interest as a AGF, “which has enormous responsibilities requiring independent thought, mind and direction,” and also the Justice minister, “who is an appointee of the president with the mandate to assist him in the discharge of his executive functions.”
He added that the AGF has to be a “saint in order not to be tainted by the views of his party under whose platform he was nominated or those of the president who appointed him, given the intrigues and underhand dealings that characterise partisan politics in Nigeria, coupled with the “absolute loyalty to the president’ syndrome…”
“As Chief Law Officer, the responsibilities of the AGF is like no other in the Federal Executive Council (FEC)… the AGF has a special responsibility to be the guardian of the constitution. He has a special role in advising the government to ensure that the rule of law is maintained and that government action passes the acid test of constitutionality,” the former AGF wrote.
Adoke, who stressed the need for the offices to be divided with specified functions, said: “This is often a great task, given that government actions sometimes conflict with the interest of the citizenry.”
But Adoke’s predecessor in office, Mr. Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), had expressed concerns over the proposal to separate the offices, questioning the intent behind the amendment.
Aondoakaa, who spoke on the issue on ARISE NEWS Channel, noted that Section 150 of the 1999 Constitution does not recognise the position of Minister of Justice. He argued that there is no ambiguity in Section 150 that would justify creating a separate constitutional office for the Ministry of Justice.
“The Constitution specifically states that there shall be an Attorney General of the Federation, who serves as both the chief legal officer and a minister in the council. I see no conflict here. If the proposal intends to create a constitutional office for the Ministry of Justice, that is an entirely different matter,” he said.
He raised concerns about the potential consequences of separating the offices, questioning whether similar amendments might be proposed for other ministries, such as the Ministry of Finance.
Fagbemi
Adoke
Aondoakaa
ENGAGEMENTS
Tinubu and His Many Opponents
Barely mid way into his four-year tenure, President Tinubu has scored a contradictory political victory. He has succeeded in getting the political barometer of the nation to swing towards preparations for 2027 instead of pressuring him to deliver on the promises he and his party made in 2023. In tandem, a nationwide gale of opposition to the Tinubu presidency is building up in many fronts.
The national discourse has however moved gradually away from whether Mr. Tinubu is a good president to whether he stands a chance of being re-elected for a second term in 2027. This is a major political victory albeit one that promises to rebound with dire consequences for both the president and the many who seek his job in 2027.
Those who insist that Mr. Tinubu is more of an adept politician than a technocratic administrator may have this development to swear by. Ordinarily, the current mood of the nation ought to dictate that our political discourse should be dominated by arguments as to how to make the lives of Nigerians more livable. The epidemic of hunger, the massive deprivations, the avoidable economic hardship and the desperate internal security situation are all issues that dominate the lives and thoughts of most Nigerians. But Tinubu and the politicians have managed to thwart these and navigate the focus into the brackish waters of Nigerian election politics.
But in Nigerian politics, matters of rice and garri, house rents and school fees not to talk of fuel prices and transport fares and prices of basic medications have a way of refusing to disappear from the radar of public perception. But for now, it is all about the prospects of 2027 and the profiles of the gathering opposition to Mr. Tinubu’s lacklustre dispensation.
Interestingly, the politicians do not seem so concerned about what the public thinks about Mr. Tinubu’s performance on the job. It all seems to be about seeking to uproot the man from his political deep roots and all costs paid accommodation at Aso Villa.
A primary level of the brewing opposition is of course at the partisan level. The main opposition party is still the PDP with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as its perennial mascot. Characteristically, Atiku has been busy with pointed criticisms of the Tinubu government nearly every inch of the way. As an opposition leader, his perspectives on the pitfalls incumbent government seem somewhat too predictable.
As the major opposition party, the fate of the PDP is literally in the hands of the Tinubu formation. Through the agency of FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, the PDP has a resident destabilization machinery acting on behalf of the APC . That machinery has only one charge: to ensure that the party dies an incremental death and is in no position to wage a consequential challenge against the APC in 2027 or any time. We can already see the handiwork of the agents in the festering crises in the party. The free for all fights, the ejections of the BOT chairperson from the party, the conflicting court rulings on who really presides over the party etc.
The other strident voice of the opposition is that of Mr. Peter Obi and his dwindling Labour Party. Unlike Atiku, Obi has two voices. He speaks for both Labour Party and for his ubiquitous ‘Obedient family’. He has been busy following the incumbent government with day to day close marking with criticisms based on basic fundamentals of governance, public responsibility, accountability and sensitivity to the welfare of the masses. Consistently, Obi has mostly assessed the performance and priorities of the incumbent government on the basis of his own emphasis on education, healthcare and poverty alleviation. He has hardly presented the Nigerian public with an alternative governance and development template. Consequently, his considerable youth followership still remains a social media and mostly Twitter phenomenon.
Yet the business of political opposition, properly conceived, goes far beyond pointed criticism of the incumbent government. A properly structured opposition ought to be literally an alternative government in the shadows. For
every government policy or programme it disagrees with, the public ought to expect it to come up with a reasoned alternative to that of the incumbent.
Many Nigerians will recall the character of political opposition in the days of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his Unity Party of Nigeria in particular. Awo and his party had alternative computations on the national debt, the cost of each primary and secondary school, what it would cost to provide low cost housing for deserving Nigerians etc. There was an alternative template for governance. In effect, we have passed through political periods when opposition was rooted in ideological differences and differences of strategy and policy implementation. We have arrived at the point where political opposition is literally now more of a beer parlor banter and street side quarrels among politicians.
Majorly, then, President Bola Tinubu’s political career is faced with three major opposition threats. An aggressive multi party opposition is building up against him and they are not disguising their determination to chuck him out of the Villa in 2027. From inside his ruling APC, the more progressive wing of the party is organizing an oppositional standpoint against the Tinubu government as retribution for their alienation since after the party’s victory in the 2023 presidential election.
Thirdly and perhaps most consequentially, the Tinubu administration is faced with an increasingly widespread nationwide indifference and apathy from the general populace. People are so innured of suffering and hardship that they can hardly feel the presence of a government that faintly appears to have a mandate to rule a united nation. It is only that the President has been quarantined into his personal power cubicle or is cocooned in the comfort of his South West primary constituency.
Partisan opposition from other parties and the disgruntlement of the populace are natural occurrences in the political
life of any nation. But opposition from within a ruling party has a potential of weakening the ruling party from within.
The co- existence of different tendencies in a political party is a sign of good health. By their nature, parties are organic creatures that bring together people with different shades of the same basic conviction in broad consensus about society. The elite of a party represent only a rough consensus, not a perfect unity of beliefs, ideas and strategies. So the coexistence of different tendencies is natural in the anatomy of parties as political organisms.
The ruling APC went into the 2023 presidential primaries and election looking like one party. It emerged in power as the truly fractured and divided party that is now on display. There are at least two APCs. There is the dominant Tinubu APC which is in power at the federal level and in most states of the federation.
The APC whose ‘progressive’ name and flag the party flies is mostly progressive merely at the level of party label. But the APC of Tinubu, Akpabio, Umahi and Ganduje is essentially a conservative and traditional Nigerian political assemblage of convenience held together by money, influence and vested interest. It is a party on the side of the rich and with an undisguised commitment to create more billionaires through government patronage. It does not matter to the party whether the billions they put in private pockets trickle down to the masses. Instead,, the masses are further pushed to the walls of poverty through tariff hikes, levies, taxes and higher rates on utilities. Mass immiseration becomes a tool of governance to create a more pliant populace.
This wing of the party has an ideal of the Nigerian future which happens to be in the past- the place of old national anthems and old political models.
On the contrary, there is the more truly progressive, radical wing of the APC most of whose candidates lost the party primaries at the state and federal levels. A social democratic wing with clearly identifiable nationalist slant. A clear people oriented idea of social progress. They believe that an enlightened leadership that adheres to the popular wishes
of the popular masses, does what they want, tells them what they want to hear and maintains an activist proactive approach to governance. Lineage, history, examples in contemporary global political leadership. This arm of the APC is the party of Yemi Osinbajo, Adams Oshiomole, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai and the many others who think in their mould. The illusion that this more progressive arm of the APC would remain silent into the 2027 political season is foolish. Most of them are relatively young politicians. They are visible, aggressive, eloquent brilliant and aggrieved. They feel short changed and cheated out of the power game. To that extent, they are angry about the state of the nation and their own collective plight as part of a political elite. They are afraid of being counted among the Buhari-bred politicians that later came to betray the nation and the hopes of its peoples. How to exonerate themselves from the infamy of the Tinubu faction. That is the historic burden of the ‘the other APC’.
In my view, the most consequential groundswell of opposition to the Tinubu presidency is an internal APC elite opposition rooted in the northern precincts of the country. There is a growing feeling among the northern political elite that Mr. Tinubu has betrayed the political followership that Mr. Buhari bequeathed to him. Not even his Moslem-Moslem ticket seems to have dented the growing disquiet in the north. Unfortunately, there is no corresponding increase in any southern zonal followership.
Clearly then, there is an efflorescence of opposition forces massing up against the Tinubu presidency towards 2027. It is regional, partisan and even broad based among the masses. Yet the more diverse this opposition is , the larger it gets. And yet, the larger it is, the most difficult it could be to form a coalition of forces. The paradox is that a large and unmanageable opposition is in the interest of Mr. Tinubu. He is in a unique position to use his power and resources to keep his opponents permanently divided and thus prevent the emergence of the kind of formidable opposition coalition that can chase him away from Aso Rock Villa in 2027.
• Tinubu
NOTES ON THE 2025 BUDGET PROCESS BACKPAGE
is still in the shadows of recurrent. Also, it is more useful to note that historically capital budget performs poorly in terms of actual release and utilisation (and this is not because of the convenient excuse of constraints imposed by the public procurement process).
In its original proposal of N49.74 trillion, the executive allocated N4.44 trillion to statutory transfers and N16.33 trillion to debt service. But in the approved budget of N54.99 trillion, the legislators reduced statutory transfers to N3.65 trillion and debt service to N14.32 trillion. As the name indicates, statutory transfers are statutory, sort of a first-line charge. It will be interesting to see where the legislators saw about N800 billion that they could shave off (will be interesting if it is from their own allocation). Debt service is seen as hard expenditure, something you need to do except you want to be in trouble. It comprises mainly the principal of and the interests on loans that fall due plus a little aside for the sinking fund. It will be good to know how the legislators are able to save the country more than N2 trillion in debt service. This can’t be from taking out the sinking fund (which was just N430.27 billion). It will be good to know what the trade-offs and the implications of the reduced debt service are, if any. Or was the initial debt service overestimated?
The legislators said the fiscal deficit in the approved 2025 budget will be N13.08 trillion. This was the same figure the president had proposed. I trawled the media, without success, for the projected revenue in the approved budget. But we can extrapolate that the projected revenue is N41.91 trillion since we know the total approved expenditure (N54.99 trillion) and the approved deficit (N13.08 trillion). We can have a separate discussion about how realistic this is, given how revenue projection has always underperformed. We may also think about what actual revenue shortfall may do to the eventual deficit, and how that is likely to further lock us into the vicious cycle of more debt and higher provisioning for debt service. We can deal with that in the future. In the meantime, there is also something that doesn’t add up here. The initial revenue projection by the president was N36.35 trillion and he requested that N4.53 trillion be added to the revenue column, which gives a total of N40.88 trillion. It seems that what the president projected as revenue (based on what is in the public domain) is N1.03 trillion less than what the legislators approved as projected revenue. A shortfall of N1 trillion can’t be from rounded figures. Maybe the full budget will provide illumination.
However, there is a more interesting dimension on the deficit issue: deficit-to-GDP. In his speech on 18th December 2024, the president stated that the N13.08 trillion envisaged as deficit would constitute 3.89% of Nigeria’s GDP, which is still higher than the 3% bar set in the Fiscal Responsibility Act but significantly better than the ratio for preceding years. As stated earlier, the legislators agreed with the president on the amount of the budget deficit (N13.08 trillion) but put the deficit as 1.52% of the GDP. This is a material difference. It is either there is
as of this time.
It is relevant to ask: why are opposition parties in our climes unduly fixated about taking over power? It may be argued that the zero-sum nature of our politics, the winner-takes-all syndrome, is a contributory factor. But then, the role of opposition parties in a democracy is much more crucial. It is critical in determining the level of accountability and acceptability of governing parties as well as the overall quality of a country’s democracy.
In his seminal work on the “Role of Opposition Parties in Developing Democracies” published in a journal by Democracy Works Foundation, Williams Gumede posits that,
“Opposition parties provide alternative visions, policies, and leaders to the governing party. They scrutinise government decisions, policies, and actions – and play oversight over the executive and the public administration. They defend the voters’ interests – not only their constituencies, but all the country’s voters.”
a mistake somewhere or the legislators are using a different GDP figure. If N13.08 trillion is 1.52% of GDP, that means Nigeria’s GDP is N860.53 trillion. That will be quite a leap.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s nominal GDP was N234.43 trillion in 2023. The sum of the GDP figures for Q1 to Q3 of 2024 is N196.26 trillion, which means full-year GDP at best will be below N300 trillion (in the October 2024 World Economic Outlook, IMF estimated N302.18 trillion as Nigeria’s GDP for 2024). It is possible the legislators have been briefed about the rebased GDP numbers and they are using that as a basis for their computation even when the rebased GDP is yet to be officially released. Assuming this is the case and putting aside the propriety of such an approach, this implies a tripling of Nigeria’s GDP merely on account of rebasing. This will be quite something. And when such is applied to the metrics that government officials fancy (debt-to-GDP, deficit-to-GDP), it is likely to look like a clumsy walk to a predetermined answer.
While the legislators were about concluding the process of passing the 2025 budget, the president sent them what could be classified as an amendment or a supplement to the budget proposal. He did it via a letter, which was read by the presiding officers of both chambers. The president stated the total extra revenue and the global sources (N1.21 trillion from Customs; N1.49 trillion from FIRS; and N1.82 trillion from Government Owned Enterprises—GOEs), and he proposed how they should be allocated, including N1 trillion to the solid mineral sector, N1.5 trillion for the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture, N500 billion for the recapitalisation of the Bank of Industry (BOI) and significant sums to key infrastructure projects and security institutions. The president said this was to demonstrate his administration’s commitment to “inclusive growth and security.” It is difficult to argue against the need for such.
But there are a few issues. The first issue is about process, and it is in two parts. The first part was reflected in the interesting exchange between Hon. Benjamin Kalu (Deputy Speaker and presiding officer on the day the president’s request was read in the House of Representatives), and Hon. Kingsley Chinda (the House Minority Leader). Hon. Chinda stated that it was improper for a budget from the executive to be read by a legislator but Hon. Kalu maintained otherwise, and overruled the opposition leader.
The exchange could pass for the usual face-off between the ruling party and the opposition. This is mostly done for the camera, and is normally resolved in favour of the majority (with the minority merely allowed to have its say). But the exchange strikes at a core procedural issue around presentation of budgets, including additions, supplements and virements, the level of details such requests should contain (lumpsum versus detailed breakdown) and the amount of time needed to study and process them. In the public sector, both substance and process are important. In fact, government is largely about process.
The second issue is about the proper order of things. The budget presentation
Indeed, opposition parties’ capacity to show the electorate they are credible alternatives is crucial to the credibility of the democratic system. The strength of the opposition in a democracy plays a key role in the quality of that democracy and, by extension, the effectiveness of the state. Gumede adds that, “a democratic system is significantly undermined if the opposition does not offer any credible alternatives to the governing party, is invisible in the public debate or does not have a public profile beyond during elections.”
Although many will reckon that 2027 is still a long time and according to a Yoruba adage, the sun out there can still dry the clothes, nonetheless, it is doubtful if the opposition as currently constituted in Nigeria is capable of ousting the APC in 2027.
This is why I surmise this way: the major opposition parties, the PDP, Labour Party, and of course NNPP are neck deep in crisis. They parade fragile leadership with seemingly unending court litigations. Generally, the opposition seems too uncoordinated and
is usually preceded by the approval of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF)/Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP). The MTEF contains the key assumptions and the broad outlines for the proposed budget. But assumptions and outlooks can change. That is why amendment to the MTEF is allowed. After the president requested for an increase in the 2025 expenditure, the legislators should have insisted for the MTEF to be presented again and should have given the amendment expedited treatment. Amending the MTEF after passing the budget does not seem to pass the smell test. Again, process, process, process.
The request by the president brings to fore the curious case of the changing allocations to the solid minerals sector in this budget cycle. The president made a passionate case for extra N1 trillion for the sector, as many others in and out of government routinely do. My sense is that many of us miss the memo about how the solid minerals sector is structured differently from the oil and gas sector. State participation is limited to licensing and regulation and the revenue streams are restricted to fees, royalty, taxes and maybe fines, all of which are mostly paltry. We need to open up the sector and make it more attractive to serious players and incentivise processing/value-addition (what industry players term fancifully as beneficiation). That will be good for jobs, for taxes and for increased contributions to GDP. But we need to make peace with the fact that solid mineral is not going to be our big-ticket revenue stream.
Ploughing N1 trillion (almost 2% of the entire budget) into that sector in one year does not look like optimal resource allocation to me. I may be wrong. But the real point is the dramatic shifts in the allocation to the sector in the 2025 budget. It was reported that the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, complained openly to the joint committee of the National Assembly that his ministry had requested for N531 billion for capital expenditure for the year but was allocated only N9.9 billion in the proposed budget.
“This is unacceptable, as it will hinder any significant investment in exploration,” Alake said. “We seek the support of the National Assembly for a radical upward review of the budget.” This is as bad a look as it can get, as those on the executive side have ample opportunities to make their case, especially during bilateral budget defence with the Budget Office and the Ministry of Budget and National Planning. In any case, the joint committee, with dramatic flair, rejected the budget proposed for the ministry by the executive.
The Senate Committee later recommended an increase in the capital budget of the ministry from N9.9 billion to N539 billion. This is mind-blowing. A legislative committee would contemplate increasing the proposed capital budget of a ministry by more than half a trillion Naira or by more than 5000%. It may be of interest that the capital allocation for the ministry in the 2024 Appropriation Act was N26.9 billion. Even if there is a compelling case for a major increase, did anyone bother about the absorptive capacity
lacks focus. Any alliance by such groups can only be fickle and fissiparous. These opposition politicians are being driven by personal ambition, and not the interest of the country.
Also, the matter of power rotation between the North and South over two terms is also an important factor that may work against the opposition. This factor and the machinations over 2027 may have prompted the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George George Akume and APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje to ask the North to wait till 2031 for another shot at power, arguing that President Muhammadu Buhari from the North had done eight years in office and that the South should be allowed to complete its eight years as well.
APC National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru spoke on this seeming emptiness of the disgruntled opposition groups. In an interview with the Nigerian Tribune published on Wednesday, February 12, 2025,
for a 20-fold hike?
I have worked in both the legislative and executive arms of government at the federal level, and I have been tracking budgets for a while. If I tell you I have seen anything like this before, I will be lying. But more was to come. The president further upped the ante: in his 5th February letter, he assigned N1 trillion to the solid minerals sector “to support economic diversification by unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s vast solid mineral resources, which remain an untapped revenue stream and a vital pillar of non-oil growth.”
Another issue is that there is a serious discussion that we need to have about the best way to use additional revenues. It is not immediately clear whether the N4.53 trillion that the president asked to be allocated to solid minerals and other areas is excess revenue from last year or projected extra revenue for this year. Whatever it is, it might be more prudent to use any extra revenue to reduce budget deficit than to increase immediate expenditure. This is because the deficit we kept has to be funded, and from borrowing, which would have to be paid and with interests. This, in turn, will increase future deficits and the amount to allocate to debt service. We cannot borrow our way out of this hole, and it is unconscionable to keep kicking the can down the road and, worse, to be mortgaging the future of the next generation. We desperately need to rein in deficits and borrowing. We need fiscal consolidation like yesterday.
The last issue I want to raise is the dip in disclosure in certain areas. A few weeks ago, I highlighted some notable omissions and incongruities in the proposed 2025 budget. No coherent answers have been provided. One omission that still sticks out for me is the non-disclosure of the budget of the GOEs. It is conceivable that the legislators received the proposed budgets of the GOEs and did a thorough job in scrutinising them. But there is no budget that should be obscured from public view. If the budgets of sensitive MDAs—including the presidency and security agencies—can be made public, what then is the defence for keeping the budgets of the GOEs off-limit?
I have found only two lines for GOEs in the proposed budget: N1.91 trillion for recurrent and N820.91 billion for capital. By contrast, the Budget Office of the Federation made public the 2024 proposed budgets of 26 professional bodies and 63 GOEs. The latter, a 282-page document still available on Budget Office’s website, provided granular details and a window into the profligacy and misapplication of scarce public resources going on in these entities. It is likely that a decision was made to stop the disclosure of the budgets of the GOEs because of the mild public outrage of last year. But these entities are still public, not private. And the budgets of the presidency and others attract constant reactions from the public and they still get published. So, what is special about these agencies? Once a standard is established, we need to maintain, not subvert, it. Transparency in the management of public resources is a virtue that we should never go back on.
he doubted if the opposition parties had what it takes to successfully cobble a merger or form a united front against the APC. He declared: “The question is, for the economic policies of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, what are the alternatives that the opposition has brought out, beyond just planning for the 2027 election. If 2027 comes, what do they want to campaign with, and what alternatives are you giving the people. They don’t have any alternative. The so-called opposition groups are just power-mongers. The only job they have is that they want to access government power for personal aggrandizement without any program or policies for the Nigerian people. I’m not a soothsayer, but they will not be able to merge because all the leading opposition figures are driven by personal ambitions.” Do I agree with the APC National Secretary? I think so.
•Rahman is Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media, Publicity and Special Duties.
CONGraTuLaTIONS TO THe GeNeraL…
L-R: Wife of the newly elevated Major General Samuel Oluwatobi Adejimi, Mrs. Evelyn Adejimi; Major-General Adejimi; Chief of Staff to the Ogun State Governor, Dr. Oluwatoyin Taiwo, and the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, during the promotion thanksgiving and reception in honour of General Adejimi in Abeokuta…yesterday.
Obi, Otti’s Labour Party Faction Plans to Sack Tinubu in 2027, Launches ‘Operation Recover and Redeem’
A faction of the Labour Party (LP) headed by the National Chairman of the party’s caretaker committee, Nanedi Usman, and backed by the presidential candidate of the party in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi and the Governor of Abia State, Mr. Alex Otti, has launched a comprehensive strategy to revive the party’s fortunes in preparation for the 2027 general election.
The interim Chairman of the party in Ogun State, Apagun Olaolu Samuel, disclosed this when he led a delegation of the party in the state on a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) National Political Commission, where they expressed concerns about the party’s current state.
Olaolu expressed his displeasure over the perceived silence of the NLC on matters affecting the party, as well as
The strategy, tagged “Operation Recover and Redeem,” was aimed at addressing the party’s internal challenges and repositioning it as a viable force with a capacity to sack President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
In a bold move to bridge a gap that has persisted for over 50 years in the South-East, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the SouthEast Development Commission (SEDC) Bill into law, appointing Mark Okoye II as the Commission’s pioneer Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Okoye’s inauguration, which took place on February 12, 2025, marks a significant moment in the Commission’s mandate to rebuild critical infrastructure, stimulate economic transformation, and promote sustainable development across the South East region.
A seasoned investment and economic development expert, Okoye brings over 15 years of experience spanning investment banking, governance, and policy implementation. Before this role, he served as the Managing Director/CEO of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) and previously as Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget, and Development Partners under the Anambra State Government.
In these capacities, he played
a pivotal role in shaping and executing economic policies that attracted investment and spurred development.
Speaking at his inauguration, Okoye expressed deep appreciation for the confidence placed in him and his team. The 38-year-old former Anambra State commissioner said, “I extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, Mr. President, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the trust and confidence reposed in my colleagues and I to lead this historic institution. With our formal inauguration now complete, we begin the critical task of executing our mandate to oversee the reconstruction and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure damaged by the Nigerian Civil War and tackling the broader developmental challenges facing the region.
Working with state governments, the private sector, and development partners, we will drive the South East towards a $200 billion regional economy by 2035, contributing to Mr. President’s $1 trillion GDP target.”
prolonged court cases stalling the party’s operations.
He said, “as part of the “Recover and Redeem” strategy, the Labour Party has resolved to launch a nationwide congress, leading to a legitimate and allinclusive national convention. This move aims to restore the party’s integrity, protect its human capital, and rebuild its image ahead of the 2027 general election”.
“The party also said it will implement legal and organisational measures to counteract manipulations and external influences that have undermined its values and progress.
“We are committed to recovering our party from those who have hijacked it and restoring its integrity,”.
“We urge all our members to remain steadfast and committed to this process, as we work towards rebuilding the Labour Party into a formidable force for the 2027 elections.”
Responding, the NLC Political Commission, led by Acting Chairman, Professor Theophilus Ndubuaku, reassured the Labour Party leadership of their commitment to addressing all the concerns raised.
TCN: No System Collapse Has Occurred in 2025
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) said no system collapse has been recorded this year, but line tripping.
The company said this in a statement on its X handle in Abuja yesterday.
It said: “TCN management would like to reiterate that there
has been no system collapse this year.
“On February 12, when the Omotosho-Ikeja West 330 Kilo Volt (kV) transmission line tripped, the Benin-Egbin 330 kV line was on a scheduled outage for mechanical line tracing.
“The tripping resulted in a cascaded outage, causing loss of supply within the Abuja, Lagos, and Osogbo axes.”
According to TCN, other parts of the country were fully intact.
Meanwhile, full restoration of bulk power supply to affected areas has since been completed.
The company said that it was pertinent to note that the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) was being regulated by the Nigerian Electricity Regula-
tory Commission (NERC) and governed by industry documents.
“The documents reserve for the National Control Centre System Operator or her designated back-up, the National Supplementary Control Centre (SNCC), the exclusive right to provide information to the public about events and status of the grid,” it said.
Firm Hails Tinubu for Signing DICON Act
A Nigerian firm, DICON Gray Insignia, has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing the amended Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act, which allows for the local manufacturing and storage of military hardware.
The firm also praised the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and other relevant government agencies in the
security and defence sector for their efforts to develop the local market for security equipment manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported military hardware, which comes at a huge cost.
In a statement at the weekend, the Managing Director/CEO of DICON Gray Insignia, Mr. Bem Ibrahim Garba, said President Tinubu has demonstrated bold leadership by ensuring that the
vast foreign exchange spent on importing weapons is redirected toward initiatives that enhance the livelihood of Nigerians.
He stated that DICON Gray Insignia is ready to offer its technical expertise to ensure that, as the giant of Africa, Nigeria no longer remains at the mercy of countries that profit from exporting weapons to the highest bidders.
Garba described the amend-
ment of the DICON Act by the National Assembly and its signing by President Tinubu as a game changer that will have significant security and economic benefits for the country.
Highlighting the far-reaching impact of the Act, he emphasised that local manufacturing of defense equipment will strengthen the naira, as transactions will be conducted in local currency rather than in foreign exchange.
NANS Threatens to Disrupt NELFUND Board Meeting over Exclusion
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has vowed to disrupt the scheduled board meeting of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) over the alleged non-inclusion of students after repeated appeals for students’ representation in the board meetings.
The President of NANS, Lucky Emonefe, warned the NELFUND
management that the scheduled board meeting on Monday would not be held as NANS would mobilise en masse against it unless the students’ representation is secured.
The student body conveyed this in a letter addressed to the Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, and copied to the Chairman of NELFUND, Jim Ovia.
A copy of the letter sighted by THISDAY yesterday in Abuja was titled: “Final Demand for Student
Representation in the Scheduled NELFUND Board Meeting – No Student, No Meeting!”.
According to Emonefe, excluding students from the NELFUND Board was tantamount to shaving a man’s head in his absence.
The letter partly read: “We are writing to express our deep concern and outright discontent over the exclusion of students from the scheduled board meeting of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. The National Association of Nigerian
Students as the apex student body representing over 50 million students across the country, will not stand idly by while critical decisions affecting our future are made in our absence.
“As the primary stakeholders and direct beneficiaries of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, it is completely unacceptable that students are sidelined from deliberations that shape the administration and disbursement of student loans.”
Chuk Okocha in Abuja
Peter uzoho
Bassey’s First Goal of the Season Dents Forest’s Top Four Dream
Nigerian international defender, Calvin b assey, scored his first English Premier League goal of the season yesterday to give Fulham a deserved 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
Bassey’s goal in the 62nd minute was all the London club needed to earn all three points at stake and climb up to eighth on the table, five points behind fourth-placed Manchester City. The Super Eagles defender who last scored in the English topflight almost a year ago, towered over his national teammate on the backline
East Africans Dominate 10th Access Bank
Lagos City Marathon
east africans domineering of top prizes at the access bank Lagos City Marathon continued yesterday at the 10th edition as Kenya’s edwin Kibet coasted to the finish line in 2:14:19 to win the 42kilometer marathon race. He was also presented with the winner’s prize of $50,000. another Kenyan, Kipygon Hehemiah (2:16:37), placed second while winner of last year’s race, bernard Sang Cheruiyot, also a Kenyan, crossed the line in 2:16:49 to settle for the bronze. The dominance of the Kenyans was however halted in the women’s category of the marathon as ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa emerged winner. Hirpa got to the finish line in a time of 2:37:04 while another of her compatriot, Aleminesh Herpha was second in 2:38:01:39, while Kenya’s Jerono Peris was third also in 2:38:01:39. Interestingly, a Nigerian male runner, Nyango Gyang boyi, broke into the Top
10 finishing overall eight as well as the winner in the Nigerian category in a time of 2:25:41:58. Apart from winning N2million as first Nigerian, Boyi also won $4,000 for finishing 8th overall.
Blessing Shambor Solomon emerged winner in the women’s category of Nigerian runners, while Elizabeth Nuhu Power and Patience Dalyop Mwanvwang finished second and third respectively. Like Boyi, Blessing Solomon got N2 million for her effort.
of Forest, Ola Aina in aerial battle, to head the ball across goal beyond the diving reach of Matz Sels and high into the net. Earlier in the first half, Fulham got themselves in front in the 15th minute thanks to Adama Traore’s creative brilliance after he superbly picked out Emile Smith Rowe. Rather than hit the byeline on the right flank Traore jinked inside on to his left foot then deftly curled an inch-perfect ball towards the back post where Smith rowe evaded the attentions of Morato and Ola Aina to head in.
However, Forest equalised eight minutes before the halftime interval after some superb centre-forward play by Chris Wood. The equaliser set the tone for another possible win for Forest to keep their dream of a Top-4 finish this season a reality.
But after Bassey’s goal, there was no real threat from Coach Nuno espírito Santo’s men for any equaliser.
Forest however retain their third spot on the log on 47 points, just three points above Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City on 44.
Barracuda FC Win Tompolo Unity Cup in Bayelsa
It was entertainment galore as the Tompolo unity Cup, which began on February 10, 2025 ended in Bayelsa State on Saturday with winning
re SULTS
teams, coaches, participants and the highest goal scorer going home with over N5m cash prizes.
At the end of the fiercely competed tournament organised by the stakeholders from the Niger Delta including youths, under the auspices of the Coalition of Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders (CNDYS), the barracuda FC emerged the champion after beating the IYC FC 2-1.
The football tournament,
tagged, ‘Tompolo Unity Cup’, powered by Sir Godfrey Tare Pondi, the General Manager, Operations, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), which had partcipants from across the eight local government areas of Bayelsa State, was played at the Doncont football pitch in Yenagoa, the state capital.
Speaking after the final match between barracuda FC and the IYC FC, the National Coordinator, CYNDYS, Apostle Bodmas
Kemepadei, reiterated that the tournament was organised in honour of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, (aka Tompolo), for his enormous contributions and sacrifices to the entire Niger Delta region.
Apostle Kemepadei said the tournament was organised to emphasize the importance of peace and for the people of the Niger Delta to understand that they could not achieve anything if they are divided.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim Champions Women’s Empowerment at 26th IBB Amateur Ladies Golf
Olawale Ajimotokan in abuja
as the 26th edition of the IBB International Golf and Country Club
Amateur Ladies Golf Open Tournament teed off in Abuja, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has emphasized the current government’s commitment to empowering women across all sectors.
Over 450 female golfers from
Nigeria and five other African nations: rwanda, uganda, Ghana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe participated in the tournament, themed “The Abuja Experience,” that holes out today.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed support for initiatives that promote women’s participation and success in various fields, especially in sports.
“This is part of my mandate as a marching order from Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that women should be supported across all sectors,” she said. “We must activate, cultivate, and support to build the potential of women across all sectors,” she said.
The minister said women excel when given the opportunity to participate and contribute to the nation’s development. “We know that when women do things, they do it properly, and we like to support women to contribute to the economy of Nigeria. We support them in participation and ensuring that we address their challenges. We also support them with regulation and policies to support women in sports.”
The Minister stressed that supporting women is crucial for the growth and prosperity of Nigeria.
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Kenyan Edwin Kibet...wins the men’s 42km Access Bank Lagos City Marathon to Saturday...in Lagos
Olusegun Samuel in yenagoa
Calvin Bassey celebrating ending his goal drought with the winner against Nottingham Forest...yesterday
Tambuwal to APC
“If you are talking about defecting in the interest of the people, I believe no one can go to the APC.” – Former Governor of Sokoto State and senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Tambuwal commenting on defections to APC
Notes on the 2025 Budget Process WAZIRI ADIO
After 58 days, the two chambers of the National Assembly concluded legislative work on the 2025 budget. They passed a unified appropriation bill of N54.99 trillion. This is a record on many levels. The most obvious is that, in Naira terms, the passed budget is our highest so far—about twice the size of the N28.77 trillion appropriated as the main budget for 2024. The 2025 budget has had quite an odyssey within two months of being: the initial proposal that President Bola Tinubu tabled before the parliament on 18th December 2024 was N49.74 trillion, which he bumped to N54.2 trillion via a letter to the National Assembly on February 5th; the legislators wholly and swiftly agreed to the president’s request but added N700 billion when they passed the budget a week later, bringing the approved expenditure to the record N54.99 trillion.
My intervention today will not be on the full budget. The disaggregated details are not yet publicly available and the appropriation bill is yet to be signed by the president. I will confine myself to some of the issues that the budget process has thrown up and to some of the headline figures that I have gleaned from media reports.
Let’s start with some of the numbers. As reported widely in the media, the N54.99 trillion expenditure is allocated as follows: N3.65 trillion to Statutory Transfers; N13.06 trillion to Recurrent (non-debt) Expenditure; N14.32 trillion to Debt Service; and N23.96 trillion to Capital Expenditure. There are a
few things to unpack here.
On a positive note, the legislators allocated N300 billion to address the expected shortfall to our health sector from the pause of aid by the US government. This is part of the N700 billion that the parliamentarians added to the amended proposal from the president. Those who took the initiative to make this emergency provision should be commended. Health is critical. On a related note, we should be proactive in cutting our dependence on other countries as a way of reducing our vulnerabilities and increasing our leverage in the unfolding world order. That N300 billion is just 0.55% of the approved budget, an indication that Nigeria can easily wean itself off aid and insulate itself from the blackmail/ arm-twisting that sometimes goes with it. It is noteworthy that there are some significant differences in the aggregate figures in the version submitted by the executive and the version passed by the parliament (even after accounting for the addition by both parties). The president proposed N14.85 trillion as capital expenditure, but the legislators allocated N23.96 trillion to the same expenditure category. This is N9.11 trillion extra, an increase of 61%. This also means that capital budget (rather than debt service) now has the highest allocation, accounting for 43.57% of the approved total expenditure
TUNDE RAHMAN
GUEST COLUMNIST
for 2025.
On the surface, this should be a good development: it could be read to mean that critical infrastructure is being prioritised. It is also being spun as such (even when not everything under capital is actually infrastructure or that everything termed infrastructure is really critical). But it appears something doesn’t add up. Even if we assume that the entire N5.23 trillion added by both the president (N4.53 trillion) and the legislators (N700 billion) goes entirely to capital appropriation, that should only take capital to N20.08 trillion. There is still a gap of N3.88 trillion to take the capital budget to N23.96 trillion. Most likely the difference is from the reduction from other expenditure heads, and that may have negative implications somewhere. The full budget will address this mystery.
However, it is possible that this is part of the customary optical game: let it appear as if we are allocating a lot to capital expenditure as opposed to awkward/embarrassing budget heads like debt service. But trumpeting that capital has the highest allocation is a game of self-deceit. Budgets are traditionally broken into two components: recurrent and capital. If that metric is adopted, capital even at 44%
2027: Thoughts on Opposition Machinations
Opposition politicians have revved up their engine again ahead of the 2027 election. They are busy meeting, engaging in visitations, regrouping, and strategising under various platforms. And recently at a twoday event in Abuja themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” some of these opposition figures huffed and puffed, upbraiding the present government and disparaging President Bola Tinubu and the governing All Progressives Congress. Some of them, like the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have taken advantage of various public speaking opportunities to condemn the government’s policy options and decisions but offered little or no alternative course of action. This is dismaying. During the Second Republic when the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria leader, the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was the Leader of Opposition, he would dissect the policies of
the National Party of Nigeria government of President Shehu Shagari, cut it down into granular details and offer clear, convincing and actionable alternatives. Awolowo’s interventions provided useful solutions that would have bolstered Nigeria’s economy and enriched our democracy, but unfortunately, that era lasted only four years and three months as the military struck.
President Tinubu has barely spent two years in office. Yet, political opponents have upped the ante in a desperate move to grab power in 2027. The latest move in this direction was the visit last week of the defeated Peoples Democratic Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to former President Olusegun Obasanjo at his Abeokuta, Ogun State hilltop residence. Atiku was in company with former Sokoto State governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, former Cross River State governor Liyel Imoke and Senator Abdul Ningi from Bauchi State, all of the crisis-ridden PDP. The former vice president claimed the meeting had nothing to do with 2027. Anyone who
believes him on that will believe anything. There was also New Nigeria People’s Party leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwanso, who travelled all the way to Lagos from Kano to confer with former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola to discuss issues believed to be in connection with 2027. Ogbeni Aregbesola is leading the Omoluabi Group in Osun.
Three sets of opposition groups are discernible at the moment. One group comprises President Tinubu’s opponents in the 2023 election who have refused to see, and perhaps may never see, anything good in the present government, hard as the administration works to reverse the past mistakes and dwindling fortunes of the country. These men contested the last election with the President and were roundly defeated both at the ballot and in court. However, they have continued to carry on as if the 2023 election cycle has not ended. In this group are former VP Atiku and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. Their depleting rank of supporters, called the Atikulated and
Obidents, are in league with them in this cantankerous behaviour.
The second group is made up of some erstwhile APC chieftains who claim to still belong in the party but have constituted themselves into opposition elements within. Bitter and vicious, they include former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and some others who rightly or wrongly feel entitled to political appointmens and government patronage. Amaechi had detached himself from the APC since he lost out at the APC primaries in August 2022.
The last group is composed of former APC leaders who are completely out of the party but now vigorously working against the party’s interests. Ogbeni Aregbesola belongs in this group.
These three groups of opposition figures are working to take over power in 2027. They are aiming at forming a coalition to unseat APC. None has been consummated
