SUNDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2025

Kayode Tokede

South-east Must Connect to Central Govt Through

Kwankwaso, Aregbesola Hold ‘Strategic Meeting’ in Lagos Ahead of 2027

Ex-Kano governor’s faction remains expelled, says NNPP factional national chairman

The presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general election, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Minister of

Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, yesterday met in Lagos, to “strategise” ahead of the 2027 general election.

This is just as the National Chairman of the NNPP, Agbo Major, has stated that the faction of the party led by Kwankwaso remains expelled from the party. However,

CNS: Military Has No Excuse Not to Defeat Terrorism, Banditry, Oil Theft, Other Threats

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has stated that the Nigerian military has no excuse not to defeat terrorism, banditry, oil theft, kidnapping, secessionist agitations, and other emerging security threats in the country.

This is just as the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, disclosed that the Nigerian Navy would require about $11 million to overhaul each of its attack helicopters.

Also, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has accused the media of portraying the military in a bad light before the international community.

He, however, noted that the issue is gradually being addressed.

Speaking during the closing of the Chief of Defence Staff Joint Task Force Commanders Conference 2025, at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja, Ogalla said the nation is currently waging irregular warfare, which requires the whole-of-society approach to defeat.

"We must understand that these threats are evolving and have remained dynamic over the years.

L-R: Late Herbert Wigwe’s cousin and lawyer, Mr. Uche Wigwe; Son, David Wigwe; Daughters, Hannah Wigwe; Tochi Wiwge; Elder Sister to late

and Herbert

Chairman of Access Holdings

Aig-Imoukhuede; and a sister to Chizoba, at the family tomb where Herbert, Chizoba and Chizi Wigwe are buried at the Wigwe University, Isiokpo, Rivers State…yesterday

Chizoba Wigwe, Paulina Nwuba;

Plc

Wigwe’s partner, Aigboje

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

China Reaffirms Support for Palestinian Sovereignty, Calls for Gaza Reconstruction

South Africa condemns decision to freeze aid over land to white farmers

China has criticised the threat by United States President Donald Trump to clear out the people of Gaza from their native land.

This is just as South Africa also condemned Trump’s decision to freeze aid to the country over a law he alleged allows land to be seized from white farmers.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, said at a news conference that Trump was overreaching himself as Gaza is not part of the United States.

The Chinese spokesman reminded Trump that Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people and is not a political bargaining chip

He said: “Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people. It is an inalienable part of the territory of Palestine, not a bargaining chip for political games”.

Speaking further Jiakun said Palestine should not become a prey of the strong, noting that

the war has already left Gaza in devastation and suffering.

“The international community, major countries in particular, should join hands to make Gaza better, rather than worse, by providing humanitarian assistance and helping with its reconstruction.”

He stated the commitment of China to support the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people and believes that “the Palestinians governing Palestine” is an important principle that must be upheld in the post-conflict governance of Gaza and opposes the forced displacement of the people of Gaza.

China, he said, “stands ready to work with the rest of the world for the realisation of the two-state solution as the fundamental way forward, and for an early, just political settlement of the Palestinian question, namely, the establishment of an independent

RECAPITALISATION: ACCESS BANK, ZENITH, FIDELITY, FCMB REJECT N4.8BN SUBSCRIPTIONS IN COMPLIANCE WITH CBN’S GUIDELINES

billion subscriptions, while Zenith Bank successfully raised N350.46 billion via hybrid offers (rights issue and public offer) and rejected N1.04 billion subscriptions from investors.

Access Holdings, in its results, disclosed that “81 applications for 26,775,816 shares, valued at N528,822,366.00 were found to be invalid and were therefore rejected.

“Consequently, a total of 68,426,263 shares, valued at N1,351,418,694.25 were found to be invalid and therefore rejected having not complied with the terms of the Offer and/or being disqualified by the CBN following CVE.”

Zenith Bank in its public offer results announced that, “One application for 5,000,000 ordinary shares was disqualified following CBN’s CVE.

“Furthermore, a total of 111 applications for 12,076,837 ordinary shares were found not to be valid under the terms of the Offer and were therefore rejected. In addition, odd lots amounting to 87,140 ordinary shares were also rejected.”

Zenith Bank disclosed further in its rights issue of 5,232,748,964 Ordinary Shares at N36.00 per share based on 1 new Ordinary Share for every six ordinary shares, that “a total of 820 applications for 11,390,454 ordinary shares were rejected as follows: Two applications for 12,528 ordinary shares were rejected as multiple rights subscriptions and three applications for 18,000 ordinary shares were rejected as applications by non-qualified shareholders.”

The bank added that “811 applications for 9,418,080 ordinary shares were rejected as applications not cleared by CBN, and four applications for 1,941,846 ordinary shares were rejected as applications for rights already traded.”

FCMB Group and Fidelity Bank rejected N1.47 billion and N436.99 million from public offer and hybrid offers, respectively.

FCMB announced that “39 applications for 200,699,000 ordinary shares valued at N1,465,102,700.00 were rejected having not complied with the terms of the offer and/or being disqualified by the CBN following the completion of capital verification on December

10, 2024.”

For Fidelity Bank, it declared that “458 applications for 22,765,143 ordinary shares totaling N221,960,144.25 were found not to be valid under the terms of the Offer and were therefore rejected. In addition, 548 applications included odd lots amounting to 198,320 ordinary shares (i.e N1,933,620.00) which were also rejected.”

On the option of Rights Issue, the bank’s document stated that “No applications were rejected following the CBN’s Capital Verification Exercise, however, a total of 656 applications for 23,037,442 ordinary shares totaling N213,096,338.50 were found not to be valid based on the terms of the Rights Issue.”

Speaking with THISDAY on rejected subscriptions, Investment Banker & Stockbroker, Tajudeen Olayinka said, “Applications are normally rejected when they do not meet the prescribed standard of completeness.

“Rejection could come from CBN during capital verification when applicants are considered unfit to own a certain number of shares in banks or engage in suspicious transactions. It could also come in the process of allotment. It is a standard practice in the offer process, and the numbers are usually small or negligible.

“My only concern is the prolonged process in the allotment of shares and listing on the Exchange due to CBN capital verification that takes time to be concluded.

“I think CBN can complete capital verification in less than one week because they possess relevant data that could enable them to complete the process in a short period.”

On his part, MD/CEO of Globalview Capital Limited, Aruna Kebira, said: “The CBN subjected the funding for the operations through special verification. This was to avoid the influx of illicit funds into the system.

“One, the Registrar was to provide evidence of payment before the end of the offer. If not, such an application would be disqualified. Bank statements were to be supplied by the collecting agents to show funding,” he added.

State of Palestine that enjoys full sovereignty based on the 1967 border and with east Jerusalem as its capital.”

In a related development, the South African government has condemned Trump’s decision to freeze aid to the country over a law he alleged allows land to be seized from white farmers.

“We are concerned by what

seems to be a campaign of misinformation and propaganda aimed at misrepresenting our great nation,” it said.

“It is disappointing to observe that such narratives seem to have found favour among decisionmakers in the United States of America.”

The law would “enable the government of South Africa to

seize ethnic minority Afrikaners’ agricultural property without compensation”, Trump alleged in an executive order, which also noted foreign policy clashes between the two countries over the war in Gaza.

South Africa said it “has taken note” of Trump’s executive order, but added: “It is of great concern that the foundational premise of this order lacks factual accuracy and fails to recognise South Africa’s profound and painful history of colonialism and apartheid.” Land ownership is a contentious issue in South Africa, with most farmland still owned by white people three decades after the end of apartheid and the government under pressure to implement reforms.

UK, Nigeria Bilateral Trade Surpasses £7.5bn, Says British Envoy

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The United Kingdom Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, has stated that the bilateral trade between the UK and Nigeria has surpassed £7.5 billion “and continues to grow.”

Baxter revealed this in his welcome address at the launch of Westerfield College UK, hosted at the British Residence in Lagos.

The British envoy, according to an online news platform, emphasised that the trade between the two countries remains a cornerstone of their diplomatic and economic relations, fostering prosperity, innovation, and cooperation.

"I am happy to say that as these threats keep on developing, the armed forces and other security agencies have also been evolving in our counter-strategies.

"We know that our basic training, which was conventional warfare, has within the past decades changed because of the existing and emerging threats. This has necessitated a modification in our training to improve the skills required to counter these new threats.

"We all know that the threats we are facing today are different kinds of warfare which are not conventional.

“We can call it irregular warfare and of course, for us to counter irregular warfare, it requires the application of all the elements of national power".

He listed the elements of national power, including the military, economy, diplomacy, information, and several others, stressing that all these powers must be put in place to enable the military and

at Aregbesola’s Lagos residence could not be immediately ascertained.

THISDAY gathered that the two leaders 'held a marathon meeting in Lagos where they strategised on the 2027 election,” a party source told an online news platform.

The development comes days after Omoluabi Progressives, Aregbesola’s political group, left the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The spokesperson of the group, Abosede Oluwaseun, had said members resolved to quit APC because of “ostracisation from the party, suspension and expulsion of leaders without fair hearing, and continuous denigration of the structure”.

Days later, the APC in Osun expelled Aregbesola over alleged anti-party activities.

Aregbesola, who was the governor of Osun from 2010 to 2018 on the platform of the APC, also served as a minister during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2015 and 2023.

Ahead of the 2027 general election, discussions about forming

He noted that the UK is home to several Nigerian businesses, reinforcing the importance of “mutual trade benefits.”

“Trade is not just about UK businesses coming to Nigeria; it is also about Nigerian businesses establishing a presence in the UK. This is why today’s event is so exciting,” he said.

The deputy high commissioner described the college launch as an ‘exciting step’ for Nigeria in expanding its education offering internationally, particularly in the UK market.

Baxter highlighted the UK’s welcoming business environment, which makes it a prime destination for foreign investment.

“While foreign-owned businesses make up just four per cent of business units in the UK, they contribute nearly 40 per cent of UK business turnover and employ 4.9 million people,” he added.

He said this underscores the significance of international investments, including those from Nigeria.

He said: “For every country, including Nigeria, investment has a wide range of benefits, improving productivity by increasing competition, introducing new technology processes and management techniques, and often jobs in associated companies.

“So, this is just one of the reasons

OTHER THREATS

other security agencies to counter these kinds of threats known as irregular warfare.

Ogalla said that for the military to address these myriads of threats, there must be a whole-of-society approach, similar to the application of all elements of national power in defeating the threats.

He stressed that the key amongst these elements of national power required now is the military element.

"Another is the economic elements; these two go hand in hand because the economic component is required to create a powerful military force that will address the threats that we are facing.

"Again, the military elements are required to safeguard the economic component for us to have enough resources to fund the military.

"We cannot run away from this fact and there is no excuse for us not to defeat these identified threats," the CNS added.

Earlier, the COAS, Lieutenant General Oluyede said military

a coalition to challenge the APC have been gaining momentum.

Also, politicians across opposition parties have been holding “strategic meetings”.

In November, former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar hosted Peter Obi, a chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), to a breakfast meeting at his residence in Adamawa State.

In January, Nasir el-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna, Hamza AlMustapha, the ex-aide to the late Sani Abacha, and other politicians met in Abuja.

The meeting was convened by the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (PDP), Shehu Gabam.

Kwankwaso, who was a twotime governor of Kano State, was also the presidential candidate of the NNPP in the 2023 elections.

On Friday, the National Chairman of Kwankwaso’s faction of NNPP, Ajuji Ahmed, said while the party is not currently in coalition talks, it is not ruling out the possibility. Meanwhile, the factional National Chairman of the NNPP, Agbo Major, has stated that the faction of the party led by Kwankwaso remains

actions alone cannot achieve the desired end state of the counterinsurgency operations.

To this end, he stressed that commanders must continue to explore the non-kinetic approach by collaborating with traditional and religious leaders in every community within their area of responsibility to build trust.

He also cautioned the field commanders to be mindful of sabotage and subversion.

He however accused the media of portraying the military in a very bad light, stressing that such negative reportage of the military is counterproductive in the counter-insurgency effort.

The CAS, Air Marshal Abubakar, emphasised the need to respect the rights of citizens during operations.

Represented by the Chief of Training and Operations, Air

Vice Marshal Francis Edosa, the CAS decried the activities of some stakeholders who present the Nigerian military in a negative

expelled from the party.

The Kwankwaso’s faction had rejected Tuesday’s convention that led to Major’s election as the party’s new National Chairman.

The faction insisted that the convention held in Lagos State was illegitimate and that Dr Ajuji Ahmed remains the only recognised National Chairman of the party.

Speaking on behalf of the faction with journalists, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, had described Major’s faction as a renegade group.

But addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Major said Tuesday’s convention was legal and backed by a recent court judgment.

He said, “The recent judgement of the Abia High Court dated November 1, 2024 unequivocally compelled INEC to hand our party to its Board of Trustees led by Dr Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, pending the resolution of all issues in court(s). You also recall that the same judgement mandated the BOT to activate all other organs of the party as contained in the party’s constitution (2022 as amended) to

that we are so glad to welcome the launch of Westerfield, UK.” Baxter reiterated that the UK is committed to deepening economic ties with Nigeria, not only in education but also in energy, financial services, and infrastructure.

Representing the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ms. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the launch as a historic milestone for Nigeria’s education sector.

Salu-Hundeyin emphasised that the expansion of a Nigerian educational institution into the UK signals a shift in how Nigerian education is perceived globally.

light, leading to difficulty in procuring needed military armaments at the international market to continue to stay ahead of the insurgents.

He said, "I wish to make remarks on some of the recommendations made by some commanders, which centered around air assets.

"Enough is being done in this regard; we will all agree that running the air assets is capital intensive and that is why we are advocating for more funding for the Air Force.

"As we speak our attack helicopters that are due for overhaul may require about $11 million each to overhaul the attack helicopters. So, this is what we face. "In addition to that, even when you have this money you cannot easily get the spare parts. For instance, Mil Mi series, which is the major attack helicopter that we use, we cannot get the spare easily because of the international environment."

enable it to run seamlessly.

“In total compliance with this court judgement, all necessary correspondences were made with INEC and on the 13th of January 2024, the congresses commenced with Wards nationwide. It continued days after with the local government and states as well as the zones.

“However, the national convention, which was to be held on 22nd January 2025, was temporarily halted due to an interim order of an FCT High Court. It was, however, concluded on the 4th of February 2025 at the Rockview Hotel in Apapa Lagos after the life span of the interim order elapsed.”

Major said the high points of the convention included the ratification of all congresses held from ward to zonal, the ratification of the expulsion of Kwankwaso and the Kwankwassiya group from the party.

He added that other high points included the review of the party’s finances, rejection of the purported new logo and approval to revert to the old logo, amongst others.

HONOURING NEWEST COUPLE…

South-east Must Connect to Central Govt Through APC, I'll Connect Anambra in November, Says Ganduje

The National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdulahi Umar Ganduje, has urged the states in the South-east zone of the country to strive to be connected to the central government through the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ganduje stated this yesterday in Awka, the Anambra State during the inauguration of the state secretariat of the party, which was procured, equipped and furnished by two of its governorship aspirants - Mr. Paul Chukwuma and Prof. Obiora Okonkwo.

This is coming as the governorship aspirants of the party, including Chukwuma, Okonkwo, Nicholas Ukachukwu, Chukwuma Umeoji, and Johnbosco Onunkwo pledged to win the state governorship seat for the party in the November 8 election if given the ticket.

Ganduje who addressed party

faithful, described Igbo as the most nationalistic tribe in Nigeria, adding that there was a need for them to connect to the centre by keying into the APC, to properly gain the dividends inherent in the country as a reward for being nationalistic.

He said: "We're here to inaugurate the party secretariat and to hold a meeting with the stakeholders to discuss issues, obtain ideas, and make resolutions to ensure where we are going. Of course, you know where we are going, it is the Government House.

"We must be focused; we must have plans; we must have vision and I can see that the party in Anambra is fully aware of that.

You have five states; we pray for more states for you (South-east), but you must strive to connect to the centre.

"We want to connect you to the centre; we want to plug you into the national grid. Now, politically, you are under rural electrification; you are under generator and this is

Lagos, Firm Sign MoU for Lekki International Airport Construction

Segun James

The Lagos State Government has said it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Summa Group, an international construction company, for the development and construction of Lekki International Airport.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the agreement in a port on X yesterday, describing it as a major step towards enhancing connectivity, fostering economic growth, and attracting international investment to the state.

“We signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the internationally acclaimed construction company, Summa Group, to develop and construct the much awaited Lekki-Epe International Airport,” the post reads.

“This groundbreaking initiative is an essential part of our vision to improve connectivity in Lagos, stimulate economic growth, and draw in global investments.

The governor said the airport would ease travel, and create

new opportunities for residents and businesses across the state.

On October 7, 2022, the Lagos government announced plans to construct a new airport in the Lekki-Epe axis of the state.

The Senior Apecial Assistant (SSA) to the governor on New Media, Jubril Gawat, said the project is expected to begin in 2023 and would be constructed on 3,500 hectares of land.

He added that the master plan and aeronautical designs were in place, while studies were underway to determine strategies, funding, and other considerations, after which the project will be taken to the marketplace.

The special adviser also said the airport, which is expected to cater to a minimum of five million people yearly, will be constructed in partnership with local and foreign investors.

Sanwo-Olu, on January 25, 2024, said the state was preparing for the project’s groundbreaking.

He said the airline’s operating contingency and approval from the federal government were under consideration.

unacceptable; you need to connect to the national grid.

"You are the most nationalistic people one can find anywhere in Nigeria. Everywhere you go, you must see the Igbo doing one thing or another, and that is what being nationalistic means. Why then do you want to cocoon yourself in one corner?

"We want to take you back to the good old days of Ojukwu when he was pardoned to return to Nigeria in the interest of one Nigeria, the days of Nnamdi Azikiwe. I have resolved to do it and we have seen the vigour in you, the intention and we will

do it starting from Anambra," he explained.

Ganduje added that President Bola Tinubu remains articulate and believes in the unity and reforms of Nigeria.

"Some of the things that need to be reformed are being taken care of. That is the mark of a leader. A leader who can fix the broken; he does not talk anyhow, but talks with facts and figures; Tinubu is taking Nigeria to the next level.

"We have already started seeing the effect of the reforms; more oil is being produced; security is improving; refineries are working and our currency is improving.

So, you need to be connected. We are here to seek your cooperation and commitment so that we can capture this state," he said.

Meanwhile, the aspirants of the party used the opportunity of the inauguration to show their strengths, as they mobilised their supporters to the event in large numbers.

However, two of the aspirants - Chukwuma and Okonkwo stood out as both pledged to ensure victory for the party if handed the governorship ticket.

Chukwuma said: "We are here because we want to take Anambra and connect her to the centre. Today

marks the beginning of victory for APC in Anambra.

"Our national chairman promised to connect Anambra to the centre and we believe him. I'm happy for my brother contestants, we are happy they are in our party, but they should work with us to achieve victory. I'm the one who will give the party victory. Okonkwo on the other hand said: "I am happy the party in Anambra has changed. I will lead the best and strongest campaign that will produce an APC governor. If you give me the ticket I will give you the C of O of the Anambra Government House.”

PDP South-east Stakeholders Tackle BoT over Anyanwu, Udeh-Okoye's Feud

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A fierce internal battle now rages within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after Wednesday’s Board of Trustees (BOT) resolution seeking to unseat National Secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu.

A statement issued by the party’s South-east Zonal Legal Adviser, Ukpai Ukairo, condemned the BOT’s decision describing it as “porous, illegal and lacking foundation in law and morality.”

Also, members of the PDP Coalition of Youth for Good Governance have emphatically warned the BoT not to take a position that would undermine possibilities of a peaceful resolution

Ozekhome:

of the conflict by respecting the Court of Appeal in Enugu order which granted Anyanwu a stay of execution on the Court of Appeal judgment.

The group’s leader, Emmanuel Mba emphasised on Friday that the tenure of most of the BoT members had expired, in view of Section 32(4) of the party’s Constitution which states that “All members of the Board of Trustees shall serve a term of five years and no more.”

Ukairo argued that the mere act of taking the PDP BoT’s meeting to a hotel instead of the party’s national secretariat was enough to subject the BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara to serious disciplinary sanctions.

According to Ukairo, the purported resolution is ‘an accursed document’.

Ukairo said the BOT showed complete disrespect to the office of the National Legal Adviser, and to the offices of all Legal Advisers elected by the PDP at different levels by disregarding or ignoring their advice and functions as stated in Article 42(1)(a) of PDP Constitution, which stipulates that “unless there is a programme to foist lawlessness on and disrespect of the Constitution of PDP, the BOT communique must be thrown overboard.”

Ukairo said: “The BOT meeting held at a hotel was not an official meeting of the BOT of PDP, it was, rather, the gathering of like-minded

friends who are members of the BOT; I have initiated an immediate legal process under the Freedom of Information Act to compel the hotel to disclose who paid for that venue to demonstrate beyond doubt that what happened at the hotel was not a meeting of the BOT of PDP. “Let me stress that the letter/ report of the learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria (Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki) was addressed thus: Senator Adolphus Wabara, Chairman Board of Trustees of BOT, Peoples Democratic Party, National Headquarters, Wadata, Plaza; regrettably, we were not told why the Chairman took the official meeting of the BOT to a hotel.

House Members’ Proposal for 31 New States Act of Buffoonery, Needless Distraction

Says only South-east needs new state

Wale Igbintade

Prominent human rights lawyer, Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), has taken a swipe at those proposing the creation of 31 new states in addition to the present 36 states that the country currently has, describing those proposing the creation of 31 new states as jesters.

Ozekhome said Nigeria only needs one additional state in the South-east to correct the inherent injustices in the country’s “warped federalist system,” to move towards growth

and development and a “brand new Constitution that is legitimate, people-driven, autochthonous, credible and referendum-compliant.”

Recall that the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution announced on Thursday that it had received 31 proposals for the creation of new states across the six geopolitical zones.

A letter from the committee on the requests was read by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu during the plenary.

According to the letter, the proposals include five from the North-central, four from the Northeast, five from the North-west, five from the South-east, four from the South-south, and seven from the South-west.

But reacting in a statement yesterday, Ozekhome said the exercise was buffoonery and needless distraction from the existential crises that the country faces.

He wrote: “I am surprised and greatly disturbed to hear that members of the NASS are proposing 31

additional states to the present already behemoth, overbloated and unwieldy 36 state structure that Nigeria operates.

“I see this needless venture amid more critical national issues as nothing but jesters playing out Baba Sallah’s Alawada Kerikeri histrionics and buffoonery.

“How can they be talking about creating an additional 31 states when over 2/3 of the present states are unviable entities existing on life support and merely dependent on the centre for monthly oxygenation under section 162 of the 1999 Constitution?

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

L-R: Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; the Ovie of Uzere Kingdom, HRM, Isaac Udogri 1; and the immediate past Governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, during the wedding reception of Mr and Mrs Precious Askia in Uzere, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State…weekend

STRATEGISING AGAINST INSECURITY...

Okiro Backs Four Years Tenure for IG

A former Inspector General of Police (IG), Mike Okiro, has thrown his weight behind the four years tenure for the IG.

Speaking yesterday on ARISE NEWS Channel, Okiro said four years would give the occupant of the office enough time to make and execute a strategic plan for the Nigeria Police.

“When the IG has a period of four years, he will be able to settle down and do whatever he has for the police before he leaves. If his tenure is short, he cannot plan for

himself, let alone planning for the police,” he said.

Okiro recalled that when he was the IG, he recommended a tenure of four years for the IG to the President.

“I wrote a memo to the president. I gave these reasons, one, that the IG must have a definite term of four years so that he can plan his programme. I was there for two years. When I left, all the programmes I started were abandoned by my predecessors,” he said. Reacting to the claims in some quarters that the four years tenure for the IG could affect the career progression of other senior officers

and dampen their morale, Okiro debunked these claims.

“On the impact on the other ranks like the Deputy Inspectors General of police, this longevity issue would not have much impact on them. There’s only one person who can be IG. Meanwhile, we have like 30 people. Two people may come up as DIGs, and AIG. When it gets to their turn, they go but that should not stop the careers of officers in the police because the IG is given four years. If he is given two years, it is still the same thing and if it is one year, it is still the same thing. They have their career and when it

is time to retire, they retire,” Okiro explained.

Speaking on the accusation by the Police Service Commission (PSC) that some officers doctored their age, he stated that such offence should not be an issue because there are disciplinary processes for such offenders.

“If any officer reduces his age and tenders it to the Police Service Commission, that is a falsehood. He will be queried and dealt with. That should not be an issue. We have ways of handling such matters,” he added.

Okiro also reacted to the

Ogoni Congress Reaffirms Commitment to Ongoing Dialogue with FG, Demands Wider Consultations

Applauds

Tinubu, Fubara, Ribadu on peaceful engagement

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Congress of Ogoni People in Rivers State has reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement with the federal government and other stakeholders ahead of the planned oil resumption in the area.

It commended President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu for initiating the peaceful dialogue, which was aimed at ensuring that the Ogoni people’s aspirations for development, environmental justice, and economic empowerment are realised.

These were contained in a resolution adopted at the congress held yesterday, and led by its chairman, Prof. Don Baridam; Co-Chairman, Arch-Bishop Ignatius Kattey; and Secretary, Tom Orage.

The congress was attended by over 10,000 Ogoni people, held yesterday, at the Peace and

Freedom Centre, Bori, Khana Local Government Area of the state.

The congress which was also attended by Ogoni sons and daughters from across the four LGAs: Eleme, Gokana, Khana, and Tai, witnessed the presence of influential sons of the area, including Victor Giadom, Barry Mpigi, Fred Kpakol, Ledum Mitee, among others. Kattey, who presented the resolution on behalf of the congress, explained that the meeting was to brief the Ogoni people on the outcome of the recent stakeholders’ dialogue with President Tinubu and also plan how to achieve their demands from the government.

In the resolution, the Congress commended the President, for granting the Ogoni delegation the opportunity for dialogue, stressing that the meeting marks a significant step in addressing the concerns of the Ogoni people and fostering sustainable peace and development in our land.

"We also commend the National

Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for his steadfast leadership and commitment to the dialogue process as well as the Governor of Rivers State for his support in the process as well as other government officials who have contributed in making the process hitch-free."

They also recognised the government’s swift and positive response to the confidence-building requests by the delegation, which included siting of a university in the area, employment of Ogoni indigenes in strategic positions, fast-tracking of the completion of the Eleme-Onne Road construction, among others.

"We acknowledge with gratitude the prompt actions taken by the government in response to the requests for confidence-building measures presented by our delegation, as a precursor to the dialogue, particularly: The signing into law of the Federal University of Environmental Technology in Ogoni, a landmark achievement

that will contribute to educational and environmental advancement.

"The fast-tracking of the completion of the critical road project from Eleme junction to Onne junction, which will enhance connectivity and economic development. The implementation of affirmative action in the employment of Ogoni sons and daughters in key federal institutions ensures greater inclusion and representation.

“The intervention in infrastructural development through the inclusion of key Ogoni projects in the current national budget as well as interventions by the NNPCL, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing our developmental needs."

In their affirmation of support for the dialogue process, they stated "The Congress of Ogoni People fully supports the ongoing dialogue process between the Ogoni people and the Federal Government which has begun earnestly with the Ogoni-wide consultations.

Nigeria Reports 41,336 Diphtheria Cases, with Children Mostly Affected

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has said the country has continued to grapple with the diphtheria outbreak.

The NCDC, via its official website, said that a total of 41,336 suspected cases of diphtheria had been reported from 37 states.

It said the cases were reported from

350 local government areas between Epidemiological Week 19, 2022, and Epidemiological Week 4, 2025.

According to NCDC’s recent data, 24,846 (60.1 per cent) of the cases were confirmed, while 7,769 (18.8 per cent) were discarded.

The public health agency said that classification of 3,546 cases (8.6 per cent) was pending while the status of 5,175 cases (12.5 per cent) was unknown.

The agency said that the burden of the outbreak was concentrated in a few states, with Kano leading with 23,784 suspected cases, followed by Yobe (5,302), Katsina (3,708), Bauchi (3,066), Borno (2,902), Kaduna (777), and Jigawa (364).

It noted that the seven states accounted for 96.5 per cent of all suspected cases.

“Of the confirmed cases, the majority - 15,845 (63.9 per cent)occurred among children aged one to 14 years, highlighting the disease’s severe impact on younger populations.

“Alarmingly, only 4,963 (20 per cent) of the confirmed cases were fully vaccinated with a diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine, suggesting gaps in vaccination coverage,” it said.

suggestion by some people that the current IG should not have benefitted from the tenure elongation, saying that it is the responsibility of the government to fix the time the new tenure will take effect.

“It’s left for the government to choose to commence the implementation with someone in service or wait until a new IG comes with a new tenure of office. It’s left for the government to determine when to do it and when not to do it. There is no confusion at all. I wrote that memo to the President. I was not the IG then but I looked at the situation and said with two years, I can’t do much, and certain programmes I introduced were abandoned by my successors and it was not enough for anybody to do anything in the police force and moreso if an IG is not sure if the thing will be done or not then that is not the best.

“I put it there that if an IG would be removed it should be by two-third of the Senate; that will give him more stability to

do his job.

“A lot of things need to be done for the Nigerian police. The police have been maligned, maltreated, and pushed aside. I don’t know why.

“When I was at the Police Service Commission, I found that within a period of five years, police lost 69,634 people without replacement. Many police stations were closed down.

“In a situation where we have young men and women, who are not employed going into crime and the strength of the police going down, it is bad news for Nigeria. No attention is paid to security in Nigeria because no attention is paid to the police. The welfare is not good. The salary cannot enable them to go home and come back to work. What do you expect from them? Equipment is not there; so, we have to wake up. “If you want security to go out and come in, then you must equip the security, the police especially, who are on the frontline of the entire security.”

Abductors of Retired General Demand N250m Ransom

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The gunmen who abducted a former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga (rtd), have demanded a N250 million ransom for his release.

This is just as the Katsina State Police Command yesterday stated that it was on top of the situation with the relevant stakeholders and other security agencies in the state.

Tsiga was kidnapped alongside several other residents of Tsiga village in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

A source close to the family who preferred anonymity said the abductors contacted the family and requested the amount.

The incident occurred around midnight on Wednesday when over 100 gunmen surrounded the General’s residence and whisked him away.

Sources said that during the attack, which lasted for a few minutes, two residents were wounded and one of the hoodlums died after being mistakenly shot by his colleagues.

The member representing Bakori/ Danja federal constituency Katsina State, Abdullahi Balarabe Dabai, told journalists that the attackers, after surrounding the house, began to break doors, a situation that prompted the general to come out and ask them what they were looking for.

Meanwhile, the Katsina State Police Command yesterday confirmed the abduction of retired General Tsiga, stating that it was on top of the situation.

The police Public Relations Officer of the command, Abubakar Sadiq, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the command’s headquarters to review crime-fighting achievements recorded in the previous month of January 2025.

He announced that 45 suspects had been arrested in connection with various crimes within the period.

Abubakar recalled that on February 6, 2025 at about 0530 hours, information was received at the Bakori divisional police headquarters of the activities of some suspected armed bandits where they attacked Tsiga Village, and immediately, operatives responded to the scene to rescue the situation.

“Unfortunately, before the arrival of the operatives, the hoodlums already succeeded in their mission”, he added.

Katsina is one of several states in the North-western and North-Central that is terrorised by bandits who raid villages, kill and abduct residents as well as burn and loot homes.

The gangs, who maintain camps in a huge forest straddling Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, and Niger states, have earned notoriety for mass kidnappings of students from schools in recent years.

Festus Akanbi

L-R: (from 4th position) Representative of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj Gen Emmanuel Undiandeye, and Commanders of Joint Task Forces, during the closing of Chief of Defence Staff Joint Task Force Commanders Conference 2025, in Abuja…Friday

HUMANITY ON THEIR MINDS...

Bode George Laments Government’s Failure to Address Unemployment, Poverty, Demands Governance Overhaul

Wale Igbintade

A chieftain of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has condemned the widespread poverty, youth unemployment, and hopelessness currently plaguing Nigeria.

He blamed the federal government for failing to address Nigeria’s poverty and youth unemployment.

The PDP chieftain questioned the justification for the present state of despair faced by the Nigerian masses

and called for a complete overhaul of the country’s management and governance.

Speaking at a media event hosted by the Giant Women in Media, led by Clementina Olomu, in Lagos, the veteran politician stressed that Nigeria, which is blessed with abundant human and natural resources, has the potential to become one of the greatest nations globally.

However, he attributed the nation’s ongoing struggles to the mismanagement of these resources.

NCAA to Sanction Kenya Airways for Passenger’s Maltreatment, Rule Violations

Chinedu Eze

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has vowed to impose stiff sanctions against Kenya Airways for serially violating aviation rules in Nigeria.

The airline’s management had refused to apologise to a Nigeria passenger, Gloria Omisore, who was reportedly maltreated by the airline staff in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, recently.

The NCAA spokesman, Michael Achimugu, through a statement posted on his X handle yesterday, explained that the airline’s Country Manager, James Nganga, was at his office upon a summon to a meeting where he admitted that the airline erred in the handling of the issue.

Achimugu added that the meeting also faulted a statement issued by the airline to address the matter, describing the contents as false as against the true account of the matter.

The airline, however, agreed to amend it to accommodate the truth of the incident, a decision which the airline is yet to adhere to as of the time of filing this report.

According to the statement,

Enugu

Kenya Airways officials had admitted that boarding Omisore, who lacked a France transit visa, was a mistake.

“The passenger was flown from Lagos to Nairobi, where she endured a 17-hour layover. Omisore was later informed that she would face a 10-hour wait before being allowed to board a flight to the UK. She requested care during this period, citing her medical condition, but was met with poor treatment by airline staff. Kenya Airways acknowledged that Omisore was neither unruly nor rude during the Lagos-Nairobi flight.

“Following the incident, the NCAA disputed Kenya Airways’ initial statement regarding the matter, describing it as misleading. Despite efforts to get the airline to update its statement, the NCAA reports that the original statement has continued to circulate, including in a blog post that falsely claimed that Omisore refused an offer to fly to London.

“This misinformation persists despite Kenya Airways’ admission that Omisore’s frustration stemmed from the airline’s failure to provide accommodation during her extended layover.

Community

For Nigeria to realise its full potential, George emphasised the need for change in how the country is run.

He insisted: "We can't continue to live in denial and pretend that nothing is wrong."

He urged the current administration to listen to the cries of the people who voted them into office, lamenting that Nigerians are suffering despite the country's vast resources.

George called for the government to prioritise creating employment opportunities for the youth, lowering fuel prices, and addressing the adverse effects of the fuel subsidy removal, which he claimed has made life unbearable for millions.

The elder statesman also advocated for the establishment of skill acquisition centers to help young people acquire useful trades and become productive members of society.

In addition, George criticised Nigeria's current constitution, describing it as a relic of military rule that is fundamentally flawed.

He questioned state governors’ continued reliance on the federal government for financial support, likening it to running a unitary system of government rather than a federal one.

He stressed that resources in each region should be managed locally for more efficient governance.

He further pointed out that Nigeria is rich in minerals across its various regions but suffers from poor management and misapplication of these resources.

Speaking on the country’s deeprooted problems, George identified ethnicity and religious bigotry as major factors hindering Nigeria’s progress. These “twin evils,” he said, were inherited from colonialism and have overshadowed competence and promoted mediocrity.

On the matter of insecurity, George argued that the key to addressing the crisis lies in education, poverty reduction, and

the creation of state police. He believes that well-educated youth, with their basic needs met, are less likely to fall prey to insurgency and manipulation by malicious actors. Additionally, George made a compelling case for state police, explaining that Nigeria’s federal system, modeled after the US, should also embrace localised policing.

He argued that state police would provide jobs for youths, be more attuned to the local environment, and understand the culture of the people, thus making policing more effective and efficient.

Gaza Ceasefire: Hamas Hands over Three Israeli Hostages in Latest Swap

Netanyahu

vows to eliminate Hamas and return hostages

Hamas militants yesterday handed over three Israeli hostages as part of the fifth exchange under a fragile Gaza ceasefire, with 183 prisoners held by Israel due to be released later in the day.

The swap comes after US President Donald Trump proposed clearing out the Gaza Strip of its inhabitants and for the United States to take over the Palestinian territory — a plan that has sparked global uproar and been rejected by Hamas.

However, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has vowed to destroy Hamas and bring home all captives held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas following a fifth hostage-prisoner exchange under a ceasefire deal in Gaza.

“We will eliminate Hamas, and we will return our hostages,” Netanyahu said in a video statement, denouncing

Urges

the militants as “monsters” after the handover of three hostages in Gaza early yesterday during which they appeared emaciated and were compelled to speak on stage.

Jubilant crowds in Israel’s commercial hub Tel Aviv cheered as they watched live footage of the three hostages, flanked by masked gunmen, brought on stage in Deir el-Balah before being handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The stage was festooned with a banner bearing images of destroyed Israeli armoured vehicles and a dejected-looking Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister.

Dozens of armed Hamas fighters had formed a cordon around the open area where the release took place, apparently to control crowds of onlookers.

The three hostages were identified

Caution over Move to Acquire 7,221 Hectares of Land

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Stakeholders of the Nimbo community in Uzo Uwani Local Government of Enugu State have called for caution, transparency, and inclusivity in every process leading to the proposed acquisition of 7,221 hectares of their farmland by Fung Tai Engineering Limited through the state government. In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Concerned Nimbo Stakeholders, Ambrose Okey, and Okey Enechi respectively, the group said the general meeting of February 3, 2025, demonstrated Nimbo’s tradition of consultation, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of issues.

According to the statement, stakeholders of the community welcomed the resolutions reached at the Nimbo general meeting held on February 3, 2025, regarding the proposed acquisition of 7,221 hectares of farmland by Fung Tai Engineering Limited through the state government.

The Enugu State Government and Fung Tai Engineering Limited were said to have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), for the production of cash crops on 7,221 hectares of agricultural land at Ugwuijoro, Nimbo in line with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision to ramp up agriculture and agroindustrialisation, boost security, and create employment.

as Eli Sharabi, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami.

Sharabi, 52, was at his home in kibbutz Beeri with his British-born wife and their two daughters when militants stormed it.

The armed men shot their dog, before locking the family in their safe room and setting it on fire. The bodies of his wife and two daughters were later identified. Levy was abducted from the Nova music festival, where gunmen murdered his wife. Ben Ami, who has dual Israeli-German citizenship, turned 56 in captivity.

Former hostage, Yarden Bibas, who was freed last week by Hamas militants in Gaza, on Friday urged Netanyahu to help bring back his wife and two children from the Palestinian territory.

We’ll Toll Abuja-Kaduna- Kano Highway

When Completed, Says Umahi

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, yesterday disclosed that the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Highway would be tolled upon 100 per cent completion.

This, the minister said, would pave the way for the adequate maintenance of the road.

The federal government had commenced tolling operations on the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi expressway.

But Umahi, while addressing journalists during the inspection of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Highway, assured that work on the highway will be completed in 14 months as promised.

The minister said major roads within the six geopolitical zones and within the economic corridors will be tolled

when they are ‘perfected’.

To this end, he said, the federal government has an agreement with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) that before it tolled any roads, there would have been 100 per cent completed.

He said, “This road will be tolled; major roads within the six geopolitical zones and the economic corridors will be tolled, but we are not tolling any road we have not perfected.

“We have an agreement with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) that before we tolled any roads there would have been 100 per cent completion but where we have done road in the past 10 years and maybe it is still failing and we are still working in some sections, we will reach an agreement with the stakeholders because one of the key problems of our roads is lack of maintenance.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

L-R: President-elect, Rotary Club, Jabi Lakeside, Mrs. Caroline Morah; former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Austin Opara; Rotarian Pat Ofik; President of Rotary Club, Jabi Lakeside, Amobi Ogun; and Rotarian Kwaghdoo Enyi, during the Rotary Club of Jabi Lakeside Business Expo in Abuja…yesterday KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

Editor: Festus Akanbi

CBN: Tackling Inflation with New Policy Measures

The battle against spiralling inflation entered a new phase with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s plan to adopt an inflation targeting framework to price management. The framework, which is also being implemented by central banks of several African countries, is expected to strengthen Nigerians’ purchasing power, and disposable income, drive aggregate demand and stimulate production, writes Festus Akanbi

The effects of rising inflation are felt by households and businesses across the nooks and crannies of the country.

That is why price stability is one of the core mandates of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which is working on adopting and implementing an inflation targeting framework for the economy.

The framework, expected to replace the exchange rate targeting framework, will be implemented with the backing of the people.

In its efforts to tame inflation, the CBN recently hosted the Monetary Policy Forum 2025, featuring fiscal authorities, legislative, private sector, development partners, subjectmatter experts, and scholars with the theme: “Managing the Disinflation Process”.

The forum is a major push to improve monetary policy communication, foster dialogue, and collaborate on critical issues shaping monetary policy.

During the event, CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso explained that the apex bank’s focus is to sustain price stability, the planned transition to an inflation-targeting framework, and strategies to restore purchasing power and ease economic hardship.

He said the apex bank is continuing its disciplined approach to monetary policy, aimed at curbing inflation and stabilising the economy.

“These actions have yielded measurable progress: relative stability in the FX market, narrowing exchange rate disparities, and a rise in external reserves to over $40 billion as of December 2024.”

Cardoso reiterated that the goal of the CBN is to ensure that monetary policy remains forward-looking, adaptive, and resilient.

In addressing our economic challenges, collaboration is key: “Managing disinflation amidst persistent shocks requires not only robust policies but also coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities to anchor expectations and maintain investor confidence,” Cardoso said.

“Our focus must remain on price stability, the planned transition to an inflation-targeting framework, and strategies to restore purchasing power and ease economic hardship,” he added.

Last week, the CBN launched the Nigeria Foreign Exchange Code, marking a decisive step forward for integrity, fairness, transparency and efficiency in our FX market. Built on six core principles, it represents a binding commitment from the financial community to rebuild trust and inspire confidence.

According to the CBN, financial inclusion also remains a priority. The Women Entrepreneurs Finance (We-FI) initiative under the National

Financial Inclusion Strategy is bridging the gender gap, ensuring more women have access to financial services and digital tools.

Remittances through IMTOs rose 79.4 per cent to US$4.18 billion in the first three quarters of 2024, demonstrating the positive impact of FX reforms.

Additionally, the CBN lifted the 2015 restriction barring 41 items from accessing FX at the official market to enhance trade and investment.

These reforms and developments reflect the bank’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for inclusive economic development.

However, achieving macroeconomic stability requires sustained vigilance and a proactive monetary policy stance.

“As we shift from unorthodox to orthodox monetary policy, the CBN remains committed to restoring confidence, strengthening policy credibility, and staying focused on its core mandate of price stability,” Cardoso stated.

He said moving from the exchange rate targeting framework to the inflation targeting framework aligned with the apex bank’s determination to bring inflation upsurge under control in line with its price stability mandate.

Inflation uptick has remained a major concern to the CBN and is time to use monetary policy tools to control it.

Already, the data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that the Inflation Rate in Nigeria increased to 34.80 per cent in December from 34.60 per cent in November of 2024.

The inflation rate in Nigeria is expected to be 32.00 per cent by the end of this quarter, according to Trading Economics global macro models and analysts’ expectations.

Market data showed that the various oil price shocks, the Covid-19 pandemic, and most recently, the war between Russia and Ukraine, have resulted in various shocks to the global economy, requiring changing responses to subdue the monetary and fiscal authorities in the advanced and emerging market economies.

To address these shocks, the CBN plans to migrate from an exchange rate targeting framework to a phased migration and now inflation targeting

framework.

The CBN has been controlling the growth of the money supply to achieve price stability but is seeking a change of strategy to achieve better results.

Despite Inflation Spike, Economy Remains Attractive to Investors

A member of the CBN-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), Bala Bello, listed key indicators that have over time, kept domestic and domestic investors attracted to the domestic economy.

In his personal statement during the last MPC meeting held in Abuja, he said the external reserves position have grown remarkably to $40.88 billion as of November 21, 2024 from $40.06 billion at end-October 2024.

The upsurge in reserves levels, he said strengthens the needed buffer to mitigate unforeseen risks and reinforces the importance of ongoing efforts at sustaining improved foreign exchange supply.

Significant credit was extended to growthenhancing sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and general commerce, as well as individuals and households,” he said.

According to the MPC member, this credit played a crucial role in stimulating economic activities and supporting output performance, emphasising the role of financial institutions in the economy.

He added that everyone has a role to play in this, and our collective vigilance is crucial for the stability of our financial system.

“This growth, driven by both the oil and non-oil sectors, with a notable contribution from the Services sector, is a testament to the resilience of our economy. The non-oil sector grew by 3.37 per cent in the third quarter, compared with 2.80 per cent in the second quarter, while the oil sector grew by 5.17 per cent (year-on-year), compared with 10.15 per cent in the preceding quarter. The positive growth 12 momentum, shown by leading indicators and staff forecasts, is expected to persist, providing a sense of stability and progress,” he said.

Another MPC member, Aloysius Ordu, said CBN staff presentations show noteworthy green shoots since the era of tight money began.

“First, there has been a marked improvement in the current account balance. Q3 2024 data shows a surplus of US$6.29 billion vis-à-vis US$5.14 billion in Q2 2024, and the overall balance of payment position recorded a surplus of US$3.79 billion,” he said.

“Second, the external reserves stood at

US$40.88 billion at the end of October 2024, a remarkable 16.9 months of import cover. The exchange rate remained relatively stable for most of the second half of 2024, reflecting increased capital inflows on account of attractive yields,” he added.

On his part, another member of MPC, Bandele Amoo, said Nigeria’s Balance of Payments (BOP) position remained stable to support our external sector stability.

The BOP provisionally recorded a surplus in the third Quarter of 2024 driven by positive balances in the current account and net asset acquisition positions.

The overall account positively stood at US$3.79 billion as at Q3 of 2024. Meanwhile, portfolio inflows remain high, recording a net inflow of US$0.59 billion as of November 2024.

“The total foreign exchange flows through the economy stood at US$6,175 billion in September 2024 compared with $2,570.6 billion in August 2024. Furthermore, foreign reserves at the end of October 2024 stood at $39.68 billion, equivalent to several months of import cover”.

“External reserves are projected to further increase by year-end due to expected reduction in import demand pressures arising from the full deregulation of the downstream oil sector, reduced petroleum products importation regime, increased inflows, and other process management by the CBN,” he said.

Global Inflation Statistics

Earlier, Cardoso said the global inflation is projected to decline to 3.5 per cent in 2025, down from its peak of 9.4 per cent in 2022.

Speaking during the last Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) Bankers Dinner in Lagos, he said major central banks are gradually easing their monetary conditions. This shift is slowly reopening access to international capital markets for emerging economies. However, global growth remains subdued at 2.6 per cent, hindered by geopolitical tensions, China’s economic slowdown, and growing trade fragmentation.

The committee was optimistic that fully deregulating the petroleum industry’s downstream subsector would eliminate scarcity and stabilise price levels in the short to medium term.

Thus, members of the MPC reiterated the need to strongly forge ahead with the deepening collaboration between the monetary and fiscal authorities to ensure the achievement of our synchronised objectives of price stability and sustainable growth.

Cardoso

CBN’S FX COde: A BOLd SteP tOWArd MArket INtegrIty, eCONOMIC StABILIty

IFeANyI

ONUBA argues that the CBN’s FX Code is a fundamental reset to paves the way for a more efficient, investor-friendly, and stable economy

Last week, the Central Bank of Nigeria under the leadership of the Governor, Olayemi Cardoso took a decisive step toward restoring sanity to the foreign exchange (FX) market with the introduction of its new FX Code. The policy is not just another regulatory framework, it is a much-needed reform to eliminate the distortions, unethical practices, and systemic abuses that have long plagued Nigeria’s foreign exchange ecosystem.

For too long, Nigeria’s foreign exchange market operated in a manner that benefited a privileged few at the expense of the larger economy. The multiple exchange rate regime allowed arbitrage opportunities, where some entities gained unfair access to cheaper dollars, creating artificial scarcity and distorting price discovery.

This led to a huge $7bn foreign exchange backlog—an unacceptable burden that slowed economic growth and weakened the naira.

The $7bn of FX backlogs that have taken over 12 months to verify has led to the discovery of multiple unethical and even illegal practices that Nigeria should not be proud of as a nation.

With the launch of the FX Code, the CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso has sent a clear message: those days are over. Cardoso assumed the leadership of the CBN at a time when key economic indicators were pointing southwards. The economy faced a stockpile of debts of more than $108.2bn, maturing obligations, misaligned currency with over N22tn printed bank notes stoking inflation, high interest rates, foreign direct investment draught, and an acute dollar shortage.

Revamping the economy and turning the above negative economic indicators around within his first year in office was by no means a simple task.

Against all odds, Cardoso courageously started a series of bold reforms, many considered long overdue. The reforms were unveiled, and their implementation took off immediately, including exchange rate unification.

The exchange rate reforms directed by President Bola Tinubu saw Cardoso unifying all multiple rates into the Investors’ and Exporters’ Forex Window. That policy required that all applications for medicals, school fees, business travel allowance/personal travel allowance, and SMEs would continue to be processed through the I&E window. The operational changes to the foreign exchange market also include the re-introduction of the “Willing Buyer, Willing Seller” model at the I&E Window

The newly launched FX Code introduces six core principles—Ethics, Governance, Execution, Information Sharing, Risk Management and Compliance, and Confirmation and Settlement Process— all aligned with global best practices.

These principles will ensure that Nigeria’s foreign exchange market operates transparently, fairly, and in a way that supports sustainable economic growth.

The FX Code is not just about punishing past offenders; it is about building a system that works for everyone. By mandating strict compliance and regular reporting, the CBN is ensuring that all market participants—banks, financial institutions, and businesses—adhere to ethical and transparent practices. This will boost investor confidence, attract foreign direct investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s external reserves,

which have already grown by 12.74 per cent to $40.68bn.

Furthermore, the CBN’s recent reforms, including the unification of exchange rate windows and the introduction of the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System, have already yielded positive results. The naira’s appreciation from N1,663.90 in early December 2024 to N1,536.72 is proof that these policies are working. Stability in the FX market will further reduce inflationary pressures, enhance price stability, and improve the purchasing power of Nigerians.

One of the biggest game changers of this new FX Code would be its firm stance against unethical and illegal practices. The forensic audit of FX backlogs has exposed multiple irregularities, highlighting the need for strict regulation. The commitment to sanctioning violators ensures that financial institutions and individuals who engage in malpractice will face consequences. This level of accountability is essential for a fair and efficient FX market.

Additionally, experts say the discontinuation of quasi-fiscal interventions—where the CBN previously engaged in off-budget financing—has restored credibility to monetary policy. By focusing on its core mandate, the CBN is now creating a more predictable and market-driven FX environment, which is crucial for long-term economic growth. But, the success of the FX Code will depend on full compliance from market participants. The requirement for institutions to submit self-assessments, detailed implementation plans, and quarterly reports ensures continuous monitoring and enforcement. This proactive approach will help prevent future distortions and create a more resilient financial system.

While some may argue that regulation alone cannot fix all of Nigeria’s FX challenges, the truth is that without a well-structured and transparent market, sustainable solutions will remain elusive. The FX Code is not just another policy— it is a fundamental reset that paves the way for a more efficient, investorfriendly, and stable economy.

The CBN deserves commendation for this bold initiative. Now, it is up to financial institutions, businesses, and stakeholders to embrace these reforms and work toward a more transparent and robust FX market that benefits all Nigerians.

Akwa Ibom State government is giving significant attention to the care of the old, writes ANIetIe USeN

COMPASSION AS A LAW

One of my best known mentors is Ray Ekpu, the renowned international journalist and 1987 World Editor of the Year. He is 76 years old now but still flourish with the memory of an elephant.

I honour this man and his legendary friends, Dele Giwa, Dan Agbese and Yakubu Mohammed, who left indelible marks in the sands of global journalism. I have written quite a bit about them in my book AUDACIOUS JOURNALISM (2018, 706 pages) which is my definition of the brand of journalism that the rare quartet introduced in Nigeria with their iconic Newswatch Magazine.

Recently, Ray Ekpu returned to Nigeria from Canada where, like most elite senior citizens, he went to rest his head at the insistence of his children. A natural storyteller, he told me a particularly heart warming story of his encounter in Canada that stirred my emotions.

According to Ray, as he is fondly called by many, he felt ill in Canada and had to visit a hospital. On arrival, looking frail, he was asked how old he is and he said 76. To his surprise, he was told he did not have to pay a dime for medical consultations. For his age, medical consultation, whether you are a citizen or not, is free of charge. His mind raced back to Akwa Ibom, his home State in Nigeria, where Governor Umo Eno, has demonstrated an unNigerian passion for the care of the aged, sick and weak senior citizens.

Ray Ekpu himself had experienced this Governor’s passion for compassion first hand in 2023. He had been ill for a while that year.

One day, he had a phone call from a strange caller. The caller said his name was Dr. Ekemini John. Next he said he is the Personal Physician to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State. The next information amazed the legendary editor. The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, the caller said, heard somewhere that the editor was ill and had directed him, the Personal Physician, to fly to Lagos to see him and evaluate the state of health of the man who once made Nigerians proud with his pen.

Said Ray Ekpu to me on that gesture: “This is a man that I had never met. He had never seen me but had compassion on me as an elderly man who had contributed a bit to our country and sent his Personal Physician to me. Oh My God. I fought back tears without success”. The incident left a lingering impression on the iconic editor. “Why this governor has impressed me endlessly is that he approaches development issues so differently in a humane way that is very unusual in our climate”.

Ray Ekpu is not alone in his perception and impressions about Governor Eno. Last week Nigeria’s No.1 Media empire, owners of THISDAY Newspaper and ARISE TV, crowned Governor Eno as Nigeria’s Governor of the Year. The event was the forth similar awards within a few weeks from various nationally respected media authorities including the Leadership Newspaper, the New Telegraph Newspaper and the National Office of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos.

It all boiled down to Governor Eno’s trademark empathy and compassion for the weak and poor; and his deep connection to the plight of the long suffering rural folks that bear the brunt of chronic leadership failure in Nigeria. He is, by any stretch of imagination, a Governor unusual, a creative leader, thinker and doer, whose innovative ideas, unique problem-solving skills has inspired the oil rich State on the Atlantic shores of Nigeria.

In only 20 months as Governor, Pastor Eno has raised the issue of care for the aged, weak and poor to a height unheard of in Nigeria. He inherited N90 Billion of unpaid gratuities owed to aged, retired government workers. He hit his table and said the last person that should be owed due entitlements is a retiree. To date, he has paid out N47 Billion of gratuities, pension arrears and leave grants to retired primary

school teachers, retired local government workers and retired state civil servants.

In line with his economic blueprint known as ARISE Agenda, Governor Eno has undertaken to construct 400 homes for the homeless senior citizens in their respective villages. Nseabasi Umoekpo, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Humanitarian Affairs has already showcased to journalists 174 such homes, known as ARISE Compassionate Homes (ACH).

The ACH consists of two furnished bedroom apartments, equipped with solarpowered electricity and boreholes for clean, steady and constant water supply. Ekerete Udoh, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said each Compassionate Home is constructed at the “gross cost of 25 million, which includes VAT at 7.5% and WHT at 3.5%”. Hitherto homeless beneficiaries are further given N500,000 as seed funds to start petty trading in their rural communities, Udoh said.

One of the beneficiaries of the Compassionate Homes is Bernard Asuquo, a 62- year- old, rural farmer with a festering leg injury. He was so poor, he was living in the village church with his four malnourished children in Atan Nto Abodom village, Mbiaso in Ikot Ekpene LGA. His wife had deserted him and he was practically at the edge of giving up on life. Then stepped Governor Eno into the scene during one of his trips into the hinterland.

“I was heartbroken when I saw that man…I couldn’t just leave him in that same condition that I met him… I believe I was sent by God to the rural and weak people in this State”, the Governor told me. For Bernard Asuquo, the beneficiary, his rapid transformation was a miracle he had never dreamed of. “Sometimes I close my eyes and open it again to be sure I am not dreaming of this house… What did Akwa Ibom do to deserve this rare type of Governor?” he asked rhetorically.

There is also a monthly Arise Elderly Party where 600 senior citizens drawn from all the 31 LGAs of the State are feted in the Banquet Hall of the Government House, given some basic health checks and N50, 000 allowance each. Governor Eno’s campaign to show compassion is waged on multiple fronts, for indigenes and non-indigenes alike, across political party lines. Youths, market women, street traders, disabled and the handicapped are all targets and beneficiaries of Governor Eno’s compassion.

Two weeks ago, the Governor upped the ante on the care for the elderly. He laid the foundation for the ARISE SENIOR CITIZEN CENTRE, an ultra modern complex located on the State’s new Medical Corridor and designed as a recreation spot for senior citizens to mingle, enjoy, laugh, and thrive. The Centre comprises of 13 sections and a serene, picturesque landscape.

Usen is a multiple award winning journalist and author

Onuba is a chattered accountant, and he writes from Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

NO TO GAZA DISPLACEMENT

Trump’s plan for a permanent relocation of the Gaza population is insensitive

In his first meeting with a foreign leader after returning to power as President of the United States, Mr Donald Trump has left the diplomatic world in a bit of a shock. His suggestion for a permanent solution to the Israel-Hamas crisis is the relocation of the displaced and wounded Palestinian population of Gaza to the neighbouring states of Egypt and Jordan while the devastated strip is reconstructed into a new ‘Riviera of the Middle East’. The naïvely idyllic picture of a new Gaza which Trump painted to visiting Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu of Israel in Washington, DC, does not alleviate the historical injustice of the suggestion that also poses danger to world peace.

Admittedly, months of Israeli bombardment has left the Gaza strip almost completely destroyed and demolished. Residential and public buildings have nearly all been laid waste. Schools, hospitals and commercial precincts have been similarly devastated. The little infrastructure available in the city–roads, water supplies and power systems have been knocked out and left in ruins as well. Nearly everything that should support the normal living of the population of over two million has been overturned and destroyed. Given the long standing and historical strategic partnership between the United States and Israel, the views of Trump on the way forward for Gaza and the Palestinian question carry significant weight.

reconstruction of Gaza. Therefore, Trump’s suggestion for a permanent relocation of the population of Gaza is not only disingenuous and insensitive, but it also ignores the historical origin of the Palestinian struggle which is at the heart of the Middle East crisis. Palestinian land and its forceful occupation by Israel with American connivance is at the heart of the perennial crisis in the region. Any solution that faintly suggests a further dispossession of the Palestinians of any stretch of their homeland can only be seen as an extension of the occupation principle by other means. This is why it has been condemned globally and vehemently rejected first by countries like Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Qatar. Major nations in other regions have similarly joined in this condemnation and rejection.

What is at stake in Gaza and the rest of the occupied territories of Palestine is not real estate value enhancement and landscape decoration… The inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to a place they can proudly call home are the real issues at stake

As the operating base of the resistance movement Hamas, Gaza was a highly militarised strip of Palestinian territory. It has a complex network of underground tunnels through which Hamas ferried weapons and ammunition over the years. These tunnels housed training facilities, armouries and logistical coordination centres for Hamas commanders and foot soldiers. This uncanny ingenuity of Hamas also made civilian infrastructure ready military targets during the Israeli reprisal invasion. But even then, the nature of Gaza heightened the casualty to an unprecedented number that is nearly genocidal in proportion, and for which the Israeli leadership has many questions pending at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Considering the current pause in military operations, diplomatic efforts ought to lead from ceasefire to a permanent halt to hostilities, followed by the

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What is at stake in Gaza and the rest of the occupied territories of Palestine is not real estate value enhancement and landscape decoration. The phantom reconstruction and redecoration of Gaza is not nearly the issue. The inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to a place they can proudly call home are the real issues at stake. Unfortunately, the attachment of people to their homeland cannot nearly be understood by those obsessed with real estate and land valuation. Yes, Gaza should be reconstructed from the damage of an unnecessary conflict. That reconstruction should include the restoration of basic essential services to support normal living. It should also include a demilitarisation of the infrastructure through the removal of tunnels for armed trouble making. A peaceful Gaza in an independent Palestinian state has no need for tunnels. This reconstruction can be planned in phases to accommodate the returning population while the rebuilding proceeds. But on no account must the reconstruction and restoration of Gaza or any of the other occupied territories entail the relocation or dislocation of the Palestinian population. The injuries in the hearts and minds of the Palestinian people are deep and must not be further deepened.

The opportunity offered by the present pause in hostilities is one to seek permanent peace and a comprehensive solution to the Palestinian problem. That should be the preoccupation of all critical stakeholders in the region, including President Trump!

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

NAPTIP AND NIGERIA’S POROUS BORDERS

Just how porous are Nigeria’s borders? The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) appears to have the answer that continues to elude Nigeria’s ministry of interior and immigration authorities. According to the agency, each of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas has been infiltrated by illegal migrants.

Given that Nigeria’s paucity of data makes the exact number of legal migrants in Nigeria difficult to keep up with, it is impossible to know just how many illegal migrants are in Nigeria.

The revelation by NAPTIP paints a harrowing picture of a country whose borders are breached at will; one that cannot account for all those who have set up camp within it, and one who

cannot make demands of all those within its borders because it does not even know who they are or where exactly they are.

No country can survive or grow when it cannot regulate the number of people who come and go out of it. No country can guarantee the security and welfare of its citizens when it can neither keep a lid on those who come and go from the country or the distribution of very scarce resources. Resources are indeed very scarce in Nigeria. With more than 200 million people distributed into families of different sizes, multiple security challenges, a fumbling economy, directionless leadership and absence of strategic national planning, even those that are recognized as citizens of

the country cannot get enough to lead quality lives.

This spectre of irregular migration that is now endemic across all 774 local government areas of Nigeria also feeds and flows from human trafficking which the agency is legally equipped to deal with.

While human trafficking and irregular migration do everything within their power to reduce Nigeria’s security architecture to dust, they also do a lot to strip Nigerians of their dignity. Women and children who remain extremely vulnerable remain its biggest victims.

While NAPTIP may be taking its mandate seriously, the problem of human trafficking and irregular

migration appears to be growing more serious by the day.

The grave challenges confronting many Nigerians make it easy for human traffickers and irregular migrants to operate in the country, watering the grounds for many crimes that erode human life and dignify.

Experience has shown that human trafficking is usually fueled by ruthless syndicates whose insatiable quest for money make them care nothing for human life or dignity.

To break them up, to end the hideous spectacle of human trafficking, Nigeria has to do better. It has become an emergency.

Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com

KAyOde FAyemI:

At 60, I Can’t Take Unbridled Risks Any Longer,

I Believe Our Nation will Surely Rise Again

Sixty years old today, former ekiti State governor and one time Minister of Steel and Solid Minerals Development, Dr. John ‘Kayode Fayemi, has paid his dues. Whether in the academia, politics, journalism, civil society or activism, he has his imprints across the stretch of the enduring human endeavours. In this commemoration interview with Olawale Olaleye, Fayemi went back in time, and relived his reminiscences with a glimpse of what his life looks now. excerpts:

You’resixtyyearsoldtoday. Whathaschangedwiththe manJohn‘KayodeFayemi?

There’s no question that age and experience mellow every person over time. But I’d like to think my core essence and values have remained the same, shaped by fate, time and experience. As Alfred Tennyson reminds us in that timeless poem, Ulysses, it is still a case of “one equal temper of heroic hearts, made weak by time and fate, but strong in will.”

I may no longer be in a position to do what I used to do in my age of innocence or in my 20s or 30s, run around continents, take unbridled risks challenging authorities and attempting to change the world around me for the better. What

is important is to state that I’ve been blessed in all ways by God Almighty and have a lot to be grateful for at 60.

Inwhatwaysdidyourchildhood and upbringing shape whatever you’vebecometoday?

My childhood was a normal, nuclear family type. My father was a civil servant by the time I was born but started his professional life as a teacher. My mum was a trader. They are both deceased now. I leave you to imagine how teachers behaved in those days. Although the last born in my family, my disciplinarian parents did not spare the rod. I must say that the values instilled

in me have consistently shaped my character. I also grew up as a Mass server, an altar boy in the Catholic church. It’s a position of early responsibility and discipline as well. When you combine home training with religious teachings and standard school direction, you get the picture of my upbringing.

Somepeopleoftenspeakabouttheroles theirparentsoreitherofthemplayedintheir lives.Whatwouldyousayofyours?

Both my parents had an impact on my life growing up. And my siblings too. They were both very present and monitored my upbringing closely. I wrote in my exile memoirs, Out of the Shadows, that my early obsession with reading newspapers was picked from my Dad, who was an information officer with the Western

region and later Western State government. And that must have contributed to my early consciousness and interest in what goes on in my environment. So, my career trajectory as a journalist, academic, activist and politician could not be disconnected from this upbringing.

Lookingback,whichofyourchildhood memoriesdoyoustillreckonwithtodayas arelevantfactor?

As I said, it was a normal childhood, not a pampered childhood. So many memories flood my mind but I’m not sure any of them is extra ordinary. It was a very routine, loving childhood.

Since you left office as governor in 2022, you’ve been up to different things including lecturing at the King’s College in London. But

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... I Do Not Live My Now Life Thinking and Breathing Partisan Politics Anymore

there’sababyofyoursthatisyettocome on stream: Amandla Institute. How is that comingon?

yes, I went back to my alma mater, King’s College, London, after my tour of duty as governor. although that may not be common in our climes, but it is not uncommon in other places. In fact, it’s the norm and it’s usually a revolving door between academia and public office.

I have been back at King’s for almost two years and being at King’s has helped me to conduct personal research, mentor students and operate in an environment that has enabled serious reflection. In fact, the book I’m releasing to mark my birthday, ‘If This Giant Must rise,’ is a product of the last two years.

I have also been busy as the pioneer President of the Forum of regions in africa (FOraF). This is an association of sub-National governments, who are closest to citizens on the continent working just below the sovereigns to improve livelihoods and development at the subnational level.

and you’re right, The amandla Institute, has been in gestation since I left office two years ago. but it’s being formally inaugurated on Thursday, February 6. It is a pan african “think and do tank“ which seeks to drive bold initiatives in harnessing leadership acumen and policy frameworks for the transformation of the african continent and the progress of global africa.

Whatgaverisetotheideaoftheinstitute inthefirstplaceordidyouconceiveitasa gifttoyourselfonyour60th?

The Institute is a product of my experience in public office. Before I went into public office, I was involved in building an institution, which is thriving very well in the civic space. everyone knows the work the Centre for Democracy and Development that I founded in 1997 but I’m no longer involved in the day to day running of that organisation.

The context of its founding was also different. That was a context of the post Cold War struggle for democratisation in the continent. In this instance, and having served at the subnational and national offices for almost two decades, I have seen the practical challenges leaders face in office even when they are well meaning. amandla Institute is my own contribution in helping to address and mitigate such challenges by providing young public sector actors with the resources and the tools to function in public office. The assumption that undergirds the work of the Institute is that leadership and policy matter each on their own, but it’s when both work together seamlessly that we can begin to change the narratives, lives and livelihoods for the better.

So,what’stheoverridingvisionatAmandla?

Our overriding vision is to offer a fresh approach that is anchored on the central importance of interfacing advanced leadership vision with a forward looking long term policy framework that is aligned with the aspirations of africans for a comprehensive transformation of our world and our story.

Ifyoudon’tmind,it’stimetodelvebriefly intopolitics.Afterall,that’sapartofyouthat youcan’trunawayfrom.Yournamealongside someofyourfriends,hasbeentrendinglately asconstitutingyourselfintoanewblocof opposition.Doyouwanttobehonestabout that,andwhy?

Of course, I’m a politician and a proud one at that, in spite of the low level of trust that we enjoy these days from the public. but politics is my vocation, not my profession. I don’t live my life thinking and breathing partisan politics daily.

yes, I have also read all manner of speculations on account of a conference I attended a week ago on strengthening democracy in Nigeria. For your information, that conference was jointly organised by some civil society organisations and they invited active politicians, both in and out of government, civil society leaders, academics and other critical stakeholders. It was not a gathering or a coalition of people constituting themselves into an opposition bloc as you claim. but I guess it’s the silly season and tittle-tattle and fiction graduate to facts. It’s unfortunate.

Butisittruethatsomepoliticiansarecomingtogethertoformanewoppositiontothe governmentinpower?

Politicians are always getting together. It is in the nature of politicians to get together. and when they do, they talk about the state of the nation and the state of their parties. Such conversations need not be about forming a new opposition coalition to the government in power. I’m not aware of any opposition party being formed.

Doyouasapersonhaveaproblemorany concernwiththecurrentstateofplay?

Of course, any serious minded politician who has ears to the ground must be concerned about what’s happening around you. That’s not tantamount to having a problem. Concern? yes. Problem? No.

Youhavebeenwiththecurrentpresidentfor awhileandhaddonemanythingstogether. Inorderwords,youareexpectedtoknowhim wellenough.Doyouthinkheisthesortof personthatcanbechallengedinthisgame, knowing now that he wields humongous power?

yes, I’ve known and worked with the President closely since 1994, after the annulled 1993 election. Precisely from the time he joined us in exile. and yes, we’ve done many things together and I have been a beneficiary of his support in my quest for elective office. I have found him to be incisive and daring in his approach. I know him to be instinctively opposed to any authoritarian, dictatorial tendencies. I know him to be a democrat, who is always open to contending ideas. He’s however not the asiwaju of that time. but none of us is what we used to be. age is a mediating factor. also, the nature of power may sometimes diminish such qualities, especially when you’re overwhelmed by the alleluia chorus that is always a clear and present danger around power. There is, however, nothing illegitimate about challenging him, as long as that is within the confines of the law and the constitution.

Almosttwoyearsinofficeandgiventhe challengesthatthePresidentBolaTinubu administrationconfrontedonassumptionof office,doyouthinkthetimeisrighttostart seekingaccountabilityofhim? accountability is naturally what any leader should expect from Day one. and these days where the bulk of the citizenry is impatient, they want to hold their government and leaders’ feet to fire from get go. So, it’s not really what I think. It’s what the reality imposes on us in a democracy.

Acertainrumourhasitthatyouandsome othermembersoftheAPClikeMalamNasir El-Rufai,wereangrybecauseyouhadwanted tobeinthecabinetandthepresidentrefused tolookyourway.Nooneexpectsyoutoadmit thisbytheway.Butisthereanelementof truthhere?

either at the national or state levels. I reach them occasionally on my own and some of them also ask my opinion on pertinent issues. The president also has access to me if he needs my views on anything. So, I have not complained to anyone that my private musings with men and women of power are ignored. What I have had cause to complain about to the party is that party structures and organs are not functioning effectively at the national level since we won elections in 2023 and this is not good for the deepening of our democracy and functioning of our government.

Itistruethatthepartyleadershiphasnot hadanymeaningfulmeetingsinceTinubu assumedoffice,andMalamNasirEl-Rufai alludedtothisrecently.Towhatextentdo youthinkthisisresponsiblefortheswirlingconfusionallegedtobepervadingthe governmentandparty?

When I joined partisan politics, one constant refrain I hear from the grassroots politicians is that meetings represent the heartbeat of politics. a party whose organs do not meet is as good as comatose, if not completely dead.

It also breeds a rumour mill in which many leaders are disgruntled and ill informed about even the good deeds of government. regular meetings will provide regular feedback and reduce if not completely eliminate mischief.

It is the prerogative of the president to select his cabinet members. Service for me is duty and not an ambition. but as you know, I just finished my tour of duty as governor in October 2022 and I have had the opportunity to serve as minister in the past too.

as part of my contribution to the party, I helped our candidate, now president, shape his foreign policy agenda because he requested me to help with that. apart from helping with his foreign policy briefs during our electioneering campaign, you would have also seen me organise his engagement at Chatham House in London and his pre-inauguration meetings with many foreign leaders.

It’s his right to choose his team. I’m glad I contributed my own quota to the victory of my party and as I’m sure you know, I’m not a jobless politician. I have a primary address outside of politics and wish our president well in his endeavours.

Wasthatwhyyouweresaidtohave evenbeguntoannounceyourselfasthe prospective Foreign Affairs Minister beforethegovernmentsetforth.Did youactuallyhavetheseconversations oranythingclosetoitwithanyone? as I indicated in my previous answer, the candidate of my party who is now the president asked me to assist him with his foreign policy agenda which I did. It is not unexpected that you will have some who expected that such an unofficial responsibility ought to automatically translate to a substantive position.

but I’m not the type who counts my chickens before they are hatched. The president knew what he and I discussed but that shall remain between the two of us until, maybe, we both decide to say that in our memoirs in future. We should leave that to posterity.

InyourlastinterviewwithTHISDAY, youclaimedtohavebeencontributingto thisgovernmentfromthebackground. Isitthatyourpiecesofadvicehavenot beendeployedtogooduseortheywere alsonotsoundtobeconsideredforwhat theyareworth?

I wouldn’t say so. as a politician, especially from the ruling party, there are several ways to contribute behind the scenes. It needs not be to the president directly. I can do so through the party organs. For example, when the South-west wing of our party asked me to give a keynote address to party leaders last October on the state of the party and the state of the nation, I spoke to them with candour. I also know many leading figures in government,

When Chief bisi akande was our Chairman in aCN and aPC, the Caucus and the NeC of the Party met on a monthly basis, if not more. He didn’t wait for president or candidate buhari to be available before convening meetings. also, we met fairly regularly, when Chief John Odigie-Oyegun was party chairman. So, I don’t accept the excuse that meetings have not held because the president is not available.

In our party constitution, these organs are supposed to meet at least quarterly, but none has met in the last two years. Our party needs to move from being an election winning machine to an organic entity, responsible for shaping what we do in government and hold our feet to fire on behalf of the general membership.

Giventhecurrentstateofthenation,do yousharetheviewsofthosewhoallegestate capture,andwhatexactlydoesitevenmean orportendfordemocracy?

I really do not know what they mean by state capture but that terminology gained currency on the continent during the era of President Jacob Zuma of South africa, when he was accused of working with the Gupta brothers, a prominent business family in the country to control all the levers of state power, in abeyance of the constitution and laws of the land.

I don’t think we have such a situation yet in Nigeria. yes, our institutions may not be living up to expectations in upholding the rule of law, but that’s not just about the president imposing his views on such institutions, but their own lack of courage of conviction to do that which is right.

and the weakening of institutions has occurred cumulatively, not just under this administration. What we should focus on is how to build a democracy that works for all our citizens, not just the elite and applying the rule of law across the board is the bedrock of that.

The battle for the 2027 elections is fast buildingup.Whatdoyouseehappening, knowingthatthepresidentisnotonetogive upeasily?

There’s nothing happening that we haven’t seen before. Politicians will always jostle for preferment but what should be paramount in our minds is the unity and prosperity of our people. We are the ruling party and we are the ones who have to win the hearts and minds of the voting public.

We must do everything to win their hearts by communicating in an effective manner, those things we are doing for the people, and then address issues that pose existential threat to the citizens’ livelihoods and the corporate integrity of Nigeria. That, in my view, should be the focus of our government, not the machinations of the opposition.

Lastly,doyouthinkNigeriacansurvivethe stormthatisgraduallybuildingupaheadof thenextgeneralelection?

Nigeria is bigger than all of us. Nigeria will always survive the machinations of contenders, pretenders and offenders. Maybe I’m an incurable optimist but I know Nigeria will rise again.

He may not have won the Lagos State governorship election in 2023, but it hasn’t deterred Funso Doherty, an indigene of the state, from continuing his push for good governance. In a recent encounter with Vanessa Obioha, he shares his thoughts on why responsible leadership should be a top priority for leaders

Governance and Leadership Have Actually Been Our Weakest Link as a Nation

Stowering presence can be intimidating. The moment he steps into a room, his height and physique draw immediate attention. His athletic build- one you’d expect from a basketball player or any sportsman- had served other interests outside of basketball. In his younger years, he played cricket and squash, and he used to run quite a lot. To this day, he runs between five and six kilometres, four times a week.

Music was also a pastime. In his secondary school days, he played the guitar in a band. That’s as far as his hobbies and sporting activities go.

However, what many find even more commanding is his unflinching quest for good governance. He may not have won the Lagos governorship election in 2023, but it hasn’t deterred Doherty, a Lagos native, from continuing his push for good governance. He told me on a sunny Tuesday morning at his Surulere home in Lagos, that the way the country is governed has been weighing on his mind a lot lately.

“There is a huge gap between where we are as a nation in terms of development and where we could be, and where we should be given our natural

who is issuing contracts. The public procurement law is meant to guide the activities of the government. If the government flouts it, the government is not going to take the government to court. Somebody has to challenge them, to say: “You did the wrong thing.”

Doherty is careful not to attribute bad governance solely to poor economic policies. For him, it is a range of different things because economic policies are transient. Sometimes they are good; sometimes, they are bad. He cited the recent period that we went through in the management of the economy. What is more critical, in his view, is ensuring that “people who are in government are in government to govern for the benefit of the people, and not in government to control the system and the use of the resources of the system for their own benefit.”

Even though the wheels of democracy may grind slowly, Doherty is optimistic about Nigeria’s future. That confidence stems from the active civic engagement about the country’s leadership, a trait he attributes to social media which has allowed citizens to voice out their concerns about the country’s leadership.

“We’re seeing more of that, and these are the things that would ultimately drive behaviour and move the system in the direction that we want. And you need people working on the inside who also have a similar idea. Those would be what I would call the progressive politicians who need to be making their own inroads in the political space so that it is this interaction between those efforts and the growth of the people on the outside that can come together to ensure that people who end up occupying offices are those that actually are deserving of those offices.

career in accounting practice, he left the firm in 1994, after successfully completing the qualifying examinations of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

The politician would go on to work for other companies including Asset & Resource Management Company, Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co., PNC Advisors, the investment management business of the PNC Banking group where he served as a Vice President at its Head Office in Pennsylvania, USA, and upon returning in 2005 to Nigeria, he served as the Pioneer Managing Director/CEO of ARM Pension Managers. He also served as the Managing Director/CEO of PAL Pensions.

He is a charter holder and co-founding Trustee of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society Nigeria and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

In 2022, Doherty announced his plans to contest for the governorship seat in Lagos on the platform of Action Democratic Congress (ADM). However, he lost the 2023 election to the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Last year, he defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Given the internal crisis weathering the PDP, Doherty believes that the party can do more to put up a stronger opposition to the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I think we could do better in terms of uniting internally and coming together in a strong way against the incumbent. We can do better but there’s ongoing efforts to improve and move in that direction so that we can be a united force against the opposition.”

He is not blind to the fact the instability rocking the party can be influenced by outside forces. However, he chose to align himself with those working for the unity of the party.

Unlike many politicians who use combative ways to challenge opponents or express their concerns, Doherty chooses the gentlemanly way.

“You know they say that the stealth of a lion should not be confused with cowardice. It’s not necessarily being combative, abusive or garrulous. Actions speak louder than words. What is most important is that people are effective, have conviction and are persistent.”

“While my approach is not built on being disagreeable or insulting, it is very firm. And I’m very clear; I will say things that others will not say but not in a rude way,” he added.

There are many things about Lagos that Doherty believes are underappreciated. One of them is the state’s heritage.

people,” he began. “And that distance that exists between where we are and where we ought to be, clearly, is not because of a lack of resources. It is really about the question of the management of those resources.

“Governance and leadership have actually been our weakest link as a nation, and there’s no sustainable development that will come without addressing the governance and leadership question. With the right governance and leadership, in a span of 20 years, Nigeria could be unrecognisable in terms of progress. So that quest to governance, I think, is something that should be a priority for everybody who is in the public space.”

It is this need for transparency in governance that made him file a lawsuit against the federal government over the awarding of contracts for the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway. In his suit, Doherty alleged that the Federal Ministry of Works violated the Public Procurement Act 2007 by awarding the first two phases of the highway to HiTech Construction through a singlesource procurement process, bypassing the required open competitive bidding.

“That law was not made for the citizens. It was made for the person

“It’s not something that will happen overnight. So, you know, I ran for the governorship in the last election. You can say that we didn’t get the outcome that we wanted, but we laid the foundation, which we are building on now as we speak. There will be another election, and we will continue the work.”

But does he intend to run for governorship again?

“By the grace of God, I have every intention to run, but man proposes, God disposes. I have no reason to not carry on the work that we started.”

Born on June 16, 1968, Doherty grew up in the Yaba area of Lagos on Wakeman Street (now Borno Way). He gained his primary education at Corona School, Victoria Island, attended Kings College for his secondary school education, and University of Lagos (UNILAG) for his tertiary education where he studied Accounting. He also attended Harvard Business School for an MBA programme.

Doherty’s career began in the Lagos office of Arthur Andersen & Co. (now KPMG) in 1991. He spent three years at the firm, being trained locally and internationally and rising quickly to the position of Senior. Not wanting to make a

“The history of Lagos Island for example, you will find an incredible proportion of Nigeria’s history that is rooted there; the storey buildings, the heritage sites, etc.”

Another concern of his is that Lagos is capable of far more than we see today.

“Because we compare Lagos to other states, there is a tendency to feel that we are doing well because you have more than these states but in reality, the assessment should be how much have you done with what you have been given,” he queried, arguing that Lagos has always been endowed compared to other states.

“I don’t think people sufficiently understand that the things that we count as Lagos’ successes, while they are good, are actually things that we have been entrusted with, and we could do so much more. We should be asking ourselves what we are doing with it and what we have done with them, not to pat ourselves on the back that we have them.”

The young population, according to Dorhety, is the biggest investment of any society as they will drive prosperity, and failure to do so will make them a hurdle.

“Every society that has become a prosperous society has done so because they were inclusive in the way that they empowered people to become productive.”

To achieve this, he proposed early childhood education, addressing the menace of out-of-school children as well as providing healthcare services.

Doherty

HighLife

with KAYoDe ALFreD 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com

...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous

Arunma Oteh at 60: Woman at the Top

Arunma Oteh’s journey has been, without a doubt, one of brilliance, resilience, and service. From a young woman with a hunger for knowledge to a towering figure in global finance, unwavering dedication has been the grand theme of her narrative. As she turns 60, she stands as a symbol of integrity, vision, and excellence.

Born in Abia State, Oteh’s intellect shone early. She earned a first-class degree in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, before advancing to Harvard Business School for her MBA. This foundation equipped her to break barriers in a field where precision, discipline, and innovation define success.

Her career took off at the African Development Bank (AfDB), where she played a pivotal role in managing investments and raising capital. At a time when Africa’s financial structures needed reinforcement, Oteh was among those who steered them towards strength and credibility, steadying sustainability and economic progress.

Adesola Adeduntan refuses to fade into quiet retirement. Where many former bank CEOs retreat into advisory roles or occasional board memberships, he has taken the reins of destiny once more, launching Sequoia Financial Services Limited.

Adeduntan’s new move is far from ceremonial. Sequoia steps into Nigeria’s competitive financial landscape with an air of exclusivity, targeting high-net-worth

When she took the helm as Director-General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 2010, the capital market was in turmoil. Investor confidence was shaky, and regulatory frameworks needed urgent reform. Oteh tackled these challenges with boldness, implementing policies that restored trust, strengthened oversight,

and modernized Nigeria’s financial sector.

Her brilliance did not go unnoticed. In 2015, she was appointed Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank, overseeing a $200 billion debt portfolio and managing assets of equal value. This role placed her at the heart of global financial stability, ensuring that resources were efficiently allocated to nations striving for economic growth.

Even after stepping away from frontline financial leadership, Oteh’s influence has remained strong. As an academic scholar at Oxford University and a non-executive board member at Ecobank, she continues to shape the future of finance. Her wealth of experience now serves as a guide for emerging leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of global markets.

At 60, Oteh is more than a celebrated economist; she is a role model, an advocate for ethical leadership, and a woman who has left an indelible mark on finance, governance, and development. Her legacy is one of courage, intelligence, and an unshakable commitment to progress—one that will inspire generations to come.

Former First Bank CEO Adesola Adeduntan Makes Bold Moves Again

individuals and businesses hungry for elite financial advisory and investment solutions. With decades of experience in banking and risk management, Adeduntan has built not just a name, but an arsenal of expertise.

The man’s past at FirstBank was anything but insignificant. Nine years at the helm saw him champion digital transformation, expand international footprints, and steady the bank’s balance sheets. Yet, his departure in April 2024, under a cloud of strategic disagreements, left an unfinished conversation. Sequoia is his answer—it is forward momentum, not nostalgia.

Peers in similar positions often slip into the background, content with accolades and quiet influence. But Adeduntan has chosen to create rather than reminisce. This is why Sequoia matters—it is a fresh canvas, untouched by boardroom battles and institutional politics, shaped only by his singular vision for financial excellence.

What is Bayo Adelabu Doing about ‘Epileptic’ Electricity?

Electricity remains one of Nigeria’s most frustrating challenges, and Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, is at the centre of public scrutiny. From persistent blackouts to skyrocketing energy costs, the situation has hardly improved under his leadership. Many Nigerians believe his tenure has yielded little progress, with power outages remaining a daily struggle.

Adelabu has defended his administration’s approach, emphasizing plans like the Siemens project and a 36 billion investment in transformers. But these initiatives have yet to produce visible relief. With 2025 still in its infancy, the national grid continues to collapse, with millions left in the heat and in darkness.

Moreover, one of the government’s most controversial budget allocations is the 8 billion set aside for advocacy against vandalism. While protecting power infrastructure is crucial, critics argue that these funds should be directed toward fixing transmission failures instead of media campaigns and town hall meetings. Nigerians want power, not another round of public

awareness programs.

The excuse of vandalism, while valid, does not fully explain the sector’s failures. Meanwhile, outdated infrastructure and poor maintenance continue to cripple electricity distribution. Nigerians wonder why these fundamental problems remain unsolved.

Adelabu has admitted that frequent grid collapses are inevitable due to the system’s fragility. His promise to reduce restoration times rather than prevent collapses altogether raises concerns about the government’s priorities. Instead of tackling the root cause, the focus appears to be on damage control, leaving citizens with unreliable power.

Beyond infrastructure, the power sector suffers from financial instability. DisCos operate under massive debts, while millions of consumers face estimated billing. Calls for restructuring and increased capital investment have not translated into meaningful action. The cycle of inefficiency continues, with ordinary Nigerians bearing the brunt of the crisis.

What is coming next is not guesswork.

Adeduntan’s history with Citibank, Africa Finance Corporation, and FirstBank proves that he understands the art of structuring capital, managing risk, and unlocking financial potential. Sequoia’s future clients will not just receive advisory services; they will gain the insights of a strategist who has played on the highest stage.

Timing, they say, is everything. In Nigeria where financial institutions are recalibrating for economic shifts, Sequoia enters the arena when businesses need sophisticated guidance. Adeduntan, no longer constrained by institutional red tape, is poised to craft bespoke solutions, making his presence impossible to ignore.

For a man who once controlled one of Africa’s largest banking groups, the past is already written. What matters now is the story unfolding before us—one where retirement is a myth, reinvention is reality, and those who once watched from the sidelines now find themselves watching in envy.

Pastor ID: Why His Name is Everywhere Again

Pastor Idowu Iluyomade was once at the centre of a storm that many believed would mark the end of his influence. His suspension from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) over a controversial celebration seemed like the final chapter. But today, his name is back in public discourse.

The uproar began when his wife’s 60th birthday party took place just days after the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe, a major benefactor of the church. Many saw the lavish event as insensitive. The backlash was swift, leading to his suspension and reassignment to a less prominent RCCG branch.

Rather than accept his new posting, Iluyomade walked away. His silence in the months that followed fuelled speculation, with many assuming he had faded into obscurity. However, behind the scenes, he was apparently laying the foundation for a new chapter, one that would soon take shape in an unexpected way.

What started as small gatherings at his law firm soon became something bigger. The Family Fellowship was born, and its first public service at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island was a bold statement. It was clear that Iluyomade was not done with ministry, despite the circumstances of his departure from RCCG.

There are whispers that his new ministry may have received quiet approval from RCCG’s General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. While nothing is confirmed, his recent appearance at an RCCG Holy Communion service suggests that his relationship with the church’s top leadership is not entirely severed.

For his followers, The Family Fellowship represents a fresh start. The controversy surrounding his exit from RCCG remains, but Iluyomade has chosen to focus on the future. His ability to regroup and reestablish himself so quickly raises questions about how much influence he still holds.

With his new platform gaining attention, many are watching to see what happens next. Will The Family Fellowship grow into a fullfledged church? Will Iluyomade continue to maintain ties with RCCG leadership? His story is still unfolding, and for now, people are paying attention.

Why Tunji Alausa May Be Lagos’ Next Governor

In Lagos politics, power rarely follows the obvious path. The loudest contenders may fade into the background, while those once overlooked may emerge victorious. Dr. Tunji Alausa, a technocrat with no grassroots political base, is fast becoming the name to watch for in Lagos’ 2027 gubernatorial race.

Alausa is not a career politician. His background is in medicine, where he built a successful career in nephrology before being appointed Minister of State for Health. His transition to Minister of Education was unexpected, but it positioned him closer to the corridors of power, increasing his visibility in national politics.

The League of Concerned Lagosians

(LCL), a formidable political pressure group, recently endorsed him. This was not an isolated event. It was a signal—one that many within the All Progressives Congress (APC) now recognize. The Lagos political elite rarely make public moves without a calculated plan

Lagos has a history of electing governors who were once political outsiders. Babatunde Fashola was a Chief of Staff before he became governor. Akinwunmi Ambode was an accountant. Babajide Sanwo-Olu was a bureaucrat. Alausa fits this pattern—a candidate chosen by kingmakers, not by populist demand.

Some might question whether a technocrat like Alausa can navigate Lagos’ complex political terrain. But governance in Lagos has never been

about popularity alone. It is about securing the trust of those who hold the levers of power. So far, Alausa appears to have their backing.

If his candidacy gains further momentum, it will reshape the political landscape. Other aspirants may find themselves sidelined as the APC machine quietly aligns itself behind him. If history is a guide, endorsements like these often precede formal party nominations.

The 2027 race is still in its early stages, but Lagosians should pay attention. Alausa may not be the name most expected, but in Lagos politics, the unexpected often becomes inevitable. Whether he succeeds or not, his rise may be signalling a shift in the state’s political calculations.

Iluyomade

Adeduntan

Adelabu

Arunma

Alausa

Naja’atu Mohammed’s Commendable Courage

IbrAHIM bAbANgIDA, I AM CoMINg

Finally, his book launch has been announced. This is a launch Nigerians have been waiting for. Even the promotional message came with the teaser that Oga will speak very openly about the June 12 debacle. Expectedly, this has generated tremendous interest amongst Nigerians. We all know of the story of June 12 and how it has led us to where we are today as a nation. A lot has been said about it and a lot will still be said about it. Some have used it to catapult themselves to the highest office in the land. Others have used it to catapult themselves to eternal ignominy.

So when the chief architect says that he wants to say all that there is to it plus more, then we must sit up.

For me, I remain a strong fan of Oga and despite the blemish that was that misstep, I still remain enamoured by him. His story is compelling, his charisma, few will forget and the other things that he did, showed a vision that was hitherto unprecedented.

So, I reached out to my big Aunty, Lami Tumaka and indicated my interest to attend the book launch. “I want to see and speak with Oga, can you kindly assist?” Pronto, I received a signal that I may have secured an invite to this very epochal national event. Not only me o, but also with my sister Tosin Adefeko who is the producer of that podcast – I won’t mention the name.

I am so looking forward to this event and if God stands by me and Hajiya Tumaka grants me a private audience with the man fondly called IBB, the questions I will ask, Nigerians will be so proud of me.

Oya pray that it is not cane they will use to flog me out of the place, but anyways, fingers crossed because I am ready. Watch out for this space for my report when I come back. I cannot wait.

ISHAq AkINTolA IS SpoT oN egbeTokUN’S reTIreMeNT

In my whole 55 years of age, I never believe that me and MURIC will one day stand on the same side in a fight. This has gone to further confirm the saying that in politics, there are no permanent friends but permanent interest. On this matter of IG Egbetokun’s tenure in the police, I stand very firmly with MURIC.

MURIC, through their Oga Professor, stated that they do not support the continued stay of the Inspector General of Police in office according to a report that we have seen and read very carefully like three times.

I took my time to read the report very well, saved it on a hard disk and also printed like four copies and sent them to four different people including Dele Farotimi for safe keeping, in case I am “Sowored.”

The point that MURIC made as per the effect of the continued stay in power of the IG and its effect on morale, cohesion and the rest within the force is very valid.

Let us state the fact at this juncture, that I also agree with the authorities’ position that his extension is legal having conformed with all statutory requirements, including an amendment that has passed through the House, it still looks one kind.

It amounts to a shifting of the goal post which would inadvertently really impact negatively on institutionalisation, processes and structure of the system if we have to extend the tenure for one-man every time we find a “good” man.

I think going forward, once we find such a perfect IG like this present one and he has to retire, we set up a council of state-like structure that he will go and sit down there and be performing advisory functions instead of amending stuff each time. My two pence. Thanks.

For NASIr el rUFAI, NollYwooD beCkoNS Egbon don yab actors o. In response to an attack from born again Bwala, he has been quoted as saying that he cannot now turn to an actor at his age to be doing chameleon things because he has suddenly found himself in government, and I believe him.

The way people, even his accusers, turn into chameleons once they are given a government position even if it is gateman by the Ministry of Defence is quite amazing.

This is why, in response to the attack, that Mallam was being verbally violent against the government because he was not part of it made him drag Nollywood into the matter.

My thoughts: Mallam, although has his own “scion scion” (scion-scion in Shomolu is a person that has one or two bolts kinda missing in the brain. Lol!), comparatively he is more principled

She is not like me and certainly not like millions of Nigerians who in the face of a confrontation with her present foe, will quickly recant and even offer that one a chieftaincy title.

You even see that me sef as I am writing, I am not mentioning that person’s name. It is Chief Femi Fani-Kayode who once told me, “Edgar, do everything within your powers to avoid being carried to that place.” The one that starts with a D and ends with double S. He went further to say that the place is not a police station o.

So, I have been guided ever since. But this matter where one person has developed sudden amnesia like my elder brother El-Rufai has labelled it, is worrisome.

In a past life, statements were said and even up to the Senate and in this present re-incarnation, we are refuting instead of tendering an apology or even saying “then I was blind but now I see.” Rather, you are saying you were misquoted or that you didn’t even say it, when the video is allegedly still on YouTube.

Well, today is for Madam. I must hail her courage and boldness, a virtue she had quickly shown during the elections and beyond. My prayer is for her to stand firm, not quiver and if anything happens, I am here with prayers and supplication. Well done ma.

than over 90% of our politicians and leaders. He has over the years shown some level of consistency and principles in his public utterances and gestures to the point that he has won the admiration of others like me who have major “scion scion.”

So, in this matter, I agree with him that no matter where Mallam finds himself in this divide, he would say his mind and this is not a light position considering that his state government is on his tail with a sharp razor, looking to chop it off. A politician in his shoes will today cross carpet to the ruling party, form movement to fight for third term for Baba, become extremely close to the First Lady, and form a highlife band that will be singing at every point the president visits, just to get a soft-landing.

Mallam is doing none of these but instead speaking his mind very loudly on national issues and even joining the fight against Mr. Ribadu as reported. For this, I say Mallam is a man. Well done sir.

roTIMI AMAeCHI: CroCoDIle TeArS oF A FAlleN Hero

When I saw this gentleman at the posh Wheatbaker Hotel staring at the breakfast table and carefully picking the food, probably with the bill in mind, I knew he would soon make the statement he made on video recently. Life outside power is not easy, especially for a man who for all intent and purposes has been a career politician. I could be wrong but immediately he left the university, he got a job as a SA to Peter Odili, then as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and from then, it has been one elective position or appointment till date, I do not think this Baba has done any other thing but be part of a rent system that has rewarded him with so much power, fame and wealth.

But today it appears the music has stopped and he is now singing a new redemption song. That speech he gave which has drawn the ire of Matawalle to say the least is disappointing. It was so blatantly crude and disjointed, what my former boss, Dr Chukwujama used to call “Crap.” Maim, kill and do what to retain power? Poverty has kept him in politics? What was all of that? Is it frustration? Is it joblessness? Has his wife left him? If he is looking for

relevance and he can’t find it? Can’t he go and join Nollywood or even apply to coach Super eagles?

Amaechi needs to be sequestered o. He needs to be examined, I tell you. He is not taking this forceful retirement very well oo. Please, his people should watch him very closely otherwise Baba can run the length and breadth of the Third Mainland Bridge oo. Kai!

MUYIwA Ige: DICTIoN IN DeATH

I recently watched the podcast of this gentleman, Muyiwa Ige, the son of the late Cicero of Nigerian politics, Chief Bola Ige as he described the last minutes of his father’s life.

I must say that his diction and clarity took away from me the kernel and substance of his rendition. The way the man was speaking this same English we all speak and the mannerisms all made me not really get the import of what he was saying.

The spoken English was too good. The punctuations, the modulating voice, the aristocratic gesticulations. My people, if you closed your eyes and listened to Muyiwa in that podcast, you would think it was Prince Harry speaking. This man go school o. See me, yeye man wey I be, the man was narrating the abysmal failure of the state to protect one of its gems and here I was looking at the English his loving son was speaking. Am I a serious person? That incident remains one of the watersheds of this nation’s failing system and the fact that till date, nobody has been brought to book despite all the glaring tell-tale signs of “whodunnit” continues to show the disgrace and shame that is embedded in our ethos as a people who have failed very woefully in running a civilised nation.

Muyiwa, please do not mind me o. That interview was excellent. I am sure it would once again bring Nigerians back to the very gruesome nature of that episode and its impact on our national psyche with the futile hope that it just may spark a national reordering. I promise to watch it again and this time, I would try to listen very carefully to what was said and not to how it was said, or better still, could you do it again but preferably in pidgin or Yoruba? Kai.

Chief Bola Ige? They have stopped making Nigerians like that, I swear.

Amaechi

el rufai

babangida

Akintola

Mohammed

Mojisola Meranda as History Maker

“Royalty is completely different from celebrity. Royalty has a magic all its own.”

This beautiful quote by Philip Treacy, an Irish haute couture milliner, captures the story of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mojisola Meranda.

Sophisticated and classy, Meranda exudes the characteristics of a true and well-brought-up royal.

Meranda literally broke the jinx attached to the leadership of the state assembly when she emerged as the first female speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly. Her choice as speaker in a House dominated by men has led political writers to dust their pads to put the story in the record book.

Critics have argued that Meranda’s very rich résumé and background as a royal princess of the Iru kingdom have combined to prepare her for the role of leading the Lagos Assembly.

Though born with a silver spoon, there is evidence that Madam Speaker truly earned her new portfolio by dint of hard work and determination.

A progressive political force, Meranda’s career began in Lagos State’s Ministry of Science and Technology under the administration of Bola Tinubu, where she served as a Personal Assistant on Information Technology.

Her professional journey also includes leadership roles in the private sector, notably as the founder and MD/CEO of Worthline International Services Limited.

Also, not many are aware that she has been instrumental in the evolution of Nigeria’s political landscape, from the Alliance for Democracy (AD) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her impactful public service includes roles such as Senior Special Assistant on InterGovernmental Relations and Supervisor for Health in Apapa Local Government, where she spearheaded key healthcare initiatives.

Her success as a lawmaker is a testament to her dedication and vision. From serving as Chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) in the 8th Assembly to being the Chief Whip in the 9th Assembly, she has championed policies that promote equity, empowerment, and development.

Today, as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly in the 10th Assembly, she continues to break barriers and inspire generations.

Is Obiora Okonkwo Dissipating e nergy on a Fruitless Venture?

Professor Obiora Okonkwo, an accomplished entrepreneur, belongs to the notable class of great achievers in Nigeria. His inspiring grass-to-grace story would surely make a compelling and interesting read to many.

The businessman started his trade on a shoestring budget which has today grown in leaps and bounds. Through his entrepreneurial skills and of course, a full dose of providence, he turned the small business into a multi-million-dollar investment and a world-class brand. His business interests have metamorphosed over the years, from engineering to security, hospitality and now airlines with United Nigeria Airlines.

Despite his numerous achievements, it seems Okonkwo is unfulfilled.

Ask the serial entrepreneur to spell out his most cherished ambition, he will probably tell you that he wants to be governor of his state, Anambra, a long-time dream of his.

Now, he has finally made his intention known. The business mogul is coming out on the platform

of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the November 8, 2025 governorship election in the state. However, Society Watch gathered that his recent declaration has generated public discourse in the state.

While some hail him for his political interest, many have sneered at him. Some have even argued that he would have done better as a businessman than a politician.

A source revealed to us that Okonkwo was advised that Nigeria’s political climate is full of sharks and not meant for someone like him.

This group of people were said to have also vowed that it would be easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for him to become the number one citizen of the state. They are of the opinion that even if he was able to surmount the huge mountain in the APC to get the party’s ticket, it would be tough for him to defeat the incumbent governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo.

So, his effort has been likened to someone dissipating energy on a fruitless venture.

Biola Okoya, daughter of billionaire businessman Razak Okoya, rocked the social scene to the envy of many a few years ago. Indeed, for the mother of two, life must be enjoyed to the hilt.

Given her privileged background, Okoya, a party freak, has everything at her beck and call. No party was worth its salt if Biola was not in attendance. But things got to a head following an anti-climactic twist to the tale of this beautiful daughter of the Aare of Lagos. She fizzled out of the social radar, thus setting many tongues wagging.

While she recoiled into her cocoon, many claimed that she was ill, others rumoured that she had relocated abroad, while some

Seyi Tinubu’s e ffectual Self-sacrifice

The Latin origin of ‘integrity’ means whole, and when it comes to being a good guy, wholesome is sexy. One of such figures who fits this description of wholesome is Seyi Tinubu.

As a successful entrepreneur, vibrant socialite, sports enthusiast, humanist and now the son of Nigeria’s President, Seyi is still on the stock. As the Chief Executive Officer of Loatsad Promomedia, a full-fledged digital out-of-home advertising company, he has acted as an innovative disruptor with an unprecedented inventory of specialised outdoor and digital products ranging from giantsized billboards to automated standalone boards.

His works have had a tremendous impact on the concept of goods and services promotion. Yet, profiling the philanthropic focus of the man — who has in the last few years busied himself with the issues that bother the masses most— is not a demanding task.

Over the years, he has solidified his reputation as a philanthropist dedicated to transforming lives through the Noella Foundation —a non-profit private sector he co-founded with his wife, Layal Jade Tinubu, to scale talents and improve Nigeria’s economy via entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainable ideas and plans. His impactful

contributions, dating back to 2018, continue to serve as a reference point for his unwavering commitment to social change.

The younger Tinubu believes in service —service to the people, service to the nation and service to God. The 39-year-old fella does good in the most clear-sighted, ambitious, and unsentimental way possible that will yield a measurable impact on problems. He focuses on maximizing the impact of charitable giving..

From setting up monthly community kitchens in partnership with Food Clique Support to launching the Seyi Tinubu Empowerment Project, STEP, an initiative aimed at empowering millennial tech entrepreneurs in Nigeria, Seyi’s impact continues to resonate with more expansive programs designed to create long-term social and economic transformation.

As an entrepreneur, rather than fund a lavish lifestyle, he wants to make as much as possible to do as much good as he can. He has embraced an effective altruistic non-profit to create a positive social impact and maximise charitable giving. With an ever-growing portfolio of communityfocused initiatives, he continues to redefine philanthropy in Nigeria, ensuring that his legacy

maintained that she was only trying to kick some old habits.

It was, however, gathered that she was forced out of the social scene when her billionaire father allegedly threatened to disown her due to her weird lifestyle. As part of an effort to put her in check, her father reportedly rendered her literally ‘incapacitated’, as he deprived her of funds. This reportedly forced her to slow down, until recently when she started partying again.

It was gathered that the daughter of the billionaire has gotten back her groove as she has recently been sighted at some parties and events, doing what she knows bestgrooving, dancing and having fun.

of impact, compassion and empowerment endures for generations to come.

Families, Friends, Honour Late Herbert w igwe

and

resources to the service of humanity. He also gave much attention to social interventions, especially healthcare and education which he believed would impact people the most.

His gallantry was priceless, like the proverbial titan who walks across his century and leaves the marks of his feet all over it.

The banking guru and Group Chief Executive of Access Holdings, through his HOW Foundation, adopted so many primary healthcare centres in Rivers State. The philanthropist was so passionate about service to humankind that he committed billions of naira to this purpose.

Wigwe was not just a leader; he was a guiding light of hope and inspiration. He dedicated his life to uplifting communities and empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential. His approach was characterised by an unwavering belief in the human spirit; an ethos that encouraged many to dream bigger and strive harder.

Unfortunately, exactly one year ago today, Nigeria was thrown into mourning that fateful morning, February 9, 2024. That ill-fated day would definitely remain indelible in the history of the nation. It was the day the Grim Reaper took away one of the brightest bankers the

country has ever produced. He, alongside his wife and first son, was involved in a helicopter crash in the US.

Although he may be gone, his legacy remains etched in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.

Just as it is written in the Bible, Proverbs 10:7, “Sweet is the memory of the righteous.” Though gone, his memory and legacy have continued to reverberate as his good deeds have continued to be recognised and rewarded.

Today, his families, friends as well as close business associates will gather to honour the man whose impact has made an indelible impression on his immediate society.

Society Watch gathered that the families of the late banker invited wellwishers to his one-year remembrance ceremony in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State.

In an emotional-laden letter, they wrote: ‘’It has been a year of emotional trauma and mourning since we lost our precious Herbert, Chizoba and Wizzy. We miss them every day and would love for you to join us for an intimate Sunday service to remember and honour them.’’

Okonkwo

Okoya

Tinubu

wigwe

Meranda

In his lifetime, the late banking titan Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe dedicated his time

ARTS & REVIEW ARTS & REVIEW

A publicAtion

LIMCAF and the Art of Inspiring Hope

with innovative prizes and expanded participation on offer, the Life in My city art Festival (LIMcaF) poses a bold challenge to emerging artists to capture the zeitgeist and direct the audience’s gaze towards better times. okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

Deep within the collective consciousness, the theme of this year’s Life in My City Art Festival—“Can We Breathe?”—resonates as a haunting cry against the suffocating grip of economic injustice and systemic oppression. Few, recalling the tragic fate of Eric Garner and George Floyd, two African Americans whose earthly lives were brutally cut short by the very hands of those who swore to protect them, can fail to recognise its source of inspiration from the repository of recent memories.

A token fee of N5000 is all that is required from interested contestants, who are invited to submit works in a variety of media in response to this rallying cry. In its expanded scope, the annual youth-focused art festival—which is more often known by its acronym, LIMCAF— now welcomes foreign artists who have been residing in Nigeria for at least five years, tapping into a richer vein of creativity. Meanwhile, in addition to these changes, the upper age limit of 35 years and the May 31 deadline remain unchanged.

With over 60 million naira in prizes across various categories up for grabs, this 18th edition of the event promises aspiring young artists something to drool over. But then, it is to the festival’s organisers’ unwavering commitment to this art meet since 2007—a hallmark of their unshakeable resolve—that they owe this annual treat. Indeed, the organisers have, despite the fluctuations in sponsorship that have often threatened to derail their efforts, persevered, egged on by their passion for nurturing emerging talents and fostering a vibrant artistic community.

Nurturing artistic excellence has consistently driven LIMCAF’s mission, and this year’s festival takes a bold leap forward in that pursuit. As an eloquent affirmation of this commitment, the LIMCAF overall prize has undergone a substantial transformation, rechristened the Elder Kalu Young Artist of the Year Prize, and been significantly enhanced to the naira equivalent of USD 2,000. This generous move, sponsored by the family of the late Elder Kalu Uke Kalu, a visual arts aficionado who once chaired LIMCAF, stands as a lasting tribute to his enduring legacy, inspiring a new generation of artists to strive for excellence.

Embracing a wide range of creative expres-

sions, the festival also offers a diverse array of category prizes for exceptional entries in various visual arts disciplines, including photography, drawing, digital art, and more. With values ranging from N500,000 to N1million, these prizes not only recognise outstanding talent but also offer opportunities for sponsorship. The Chinelo Chime Prize for Best in Photography leads the pack, boasting a value of N1 million. This is complemented by category prizes in painting, sculpture, drawing, and ceramics, each worth N500,000.

Driven by its passion for artistic innovation and inclusivity, LIMCAF’s latest edition boasts an array of new category prizes, each celebrating unique aspects of artistic expression. The Armstrong Agoreyo prize, awarded to the best artwork crafted from waste paper, exemplifies the festival’s commitment to innovation and

sustainability. Another notable addition is the Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo prize, which honours outstanding artwork created by individuals living with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and diversity. Beyond these categories, LIMCAF offers bespoke prizes that enable individuals, families, and organisations to pay tribute to remarkable individuals, institutions, or achievements. Current endowments include the Justice Anthony Aniagolu Prize for Originality and the Dr. Pius Okigbo Prize for Technical Proficiency. Regional prizes, generously endowed by individuals, nurture young artistic talents in specific geographic areas, fostering a sense of community and creative growth. Examples include the Mfon Usoro Prize for Best Entry from Uyo Centre and the VinMartins Ilo Prize for Best Entry from Enugu.

Alongside its monetary awards, LIMCAF provides a nurturing environment that extends beyond financial support, offering transforma-

tive training opportunities designed to foster artistic growth. Through residencies and boot camps, young artists are empowered to navigate the national and international art landscape with confidence. These initiatives equip emerging talents with the essential tools, resources, and expertise necessary to thrive in the competitive art world, unlocking their full creative potential.

Consistent with its quest for continuous renewal, LIMCAF has welcomed distinguished new members to its Board of Trustees, bolstering its capacity for innovation and growth. The esteemed recent appointees are Barbara Kalu, Executive Vice President at Argus Media, who brings extensive expertise in global markets; Sandra Mbanefo Obiago, a multifaceted artist, curator, and award-winning filmmaker, whose diverse experience spans local and international realms; and Professor Jerry Buhari, a renowned scholar, curator, and professor of fine art at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. These strategic additions are poised to drive LIMCAF’s expansion, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures and empowers aspiring young artists.

Keeping faith with its inclusive mission, LIMCAF proudly fosters a culture of diversity, providing equal participation opportunities for emerging male and female talents nationwide. Additionally, the festival offers special prize categories exclusively for female artists, further empowering their creative voices. Extending its impact to the next generation, LIMCAF conducts workshops for primary and secondary school children, with a special focus on those living with disabilities. These initiatives have borne fruit in successful workshops held in Abuja and Enugu over the past few years.

Spurred by the looming submission deadline, intending participants are deeply engrossed in their creative quest, driven by a fervent passion to kindle a beacon of hope in these tempestuous times. Hopefully, with visions born of inspiration, aficionados can anticipate entries that will revitalise a world gasping for air beneath the ominous shadow of environmental and societal crises, a world yearning for liberation from the eerie gloom that shrouds the earth, spawning anguish and despair that imperil all.

A recent LIMCAF grand finale exhibition

Another view of the exhibition hall

IN THE ARENA

All Eyes on Edo Tribunal

As the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which relocated to Abuja

penultmate week

continues to sit, the people of the state are hoping that it will maintain impartiality and independence, as well as upholds the rule of law and the principles of democracy, Davidson Iriekpen writes

The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal began sitting last week in Abuja. As the legal process proceeds, everyone is watching and waiting to see how the judges will respond to the challenge of justice in the electoral matter.

The tribunal, which had been sitting in Benin City, the Edo State capital, recently announced its relocation to Abuja for the continuation of the hearing.

It was gathered that the relocation to Abuja was at the instance of President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem.

She was said to have become uncomfortable with an allegedly toxic atmosphere in which the tribunal conducted its affairs in Benin City.

A source close to the electoral court claimed that the movement was due to insecurity at the premises of the tribunal in Benin City. The lives of the judges, counsel, witnesses, and others were believed to be at risk each time the tribunal sat.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the September 21, 2024 governorship election in the state with a total of 291,667 votes. His closest rival, Mr. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), got a total of 247,655 votes.

But dissatisfied with the outcome of the poll, the PDP and Ighodalo approached the tribunal, praying it to nullify INEC’s declaration of APC and Okpebholo as winners of the contest.

The petitioners, among other things, alleged non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

They equally argued in the petition, marked EPT/ED/GOV/02/2024, that Okpebholo did not secure the highest number of lawful votes cast at the election.

Before the relocation of the tribunal to Abuja, the petitioners had opened their case by tendering over 1,000 documents before the tribunal in their efforts to prove their case that Ighodalo truly won the poll.

Last week, the petitioners, satisfied with the evidence of 19 witnesses they produced to testify before the tribunal, closed their case.

However, since the tribunal relocated to Abuja, there have been rumours that the decision was actually a ploy to facilitate undue pressure and influence on the court and induce its members by one of the parties.

Lovers of democracy are worried by this allegation. They only hope the change of venue will not

affect justice or encourage interference by the powers that be in the nation’s capital.

Before the governorship election, all the odds were stacked against Ighodalo and PDP, as many questioned the neutrality of the police and INEC. The concerns followed allegations that the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Anugbum Onuoha, and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Nemi Edwin-

Iwo, were allies of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

While the REC was alleged to be Wike’s cousin, who had also served as his Special Adviser on Lands when he was the governor of Rivers State, the police commissioner, who was said to be an indigene of Rivers State, was alleged to be an associate of Wike, a known political enemy of the then Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Despite the objections raised by the PDP that the posting of the police commissioner and the REC to the state could not have been a coincidence, but a deliberate plot to deliver Edo State to the APC, INEC and the police au-

thorities ignored the objections.

But the reports of the various election observers on the collation of the results suggested that the pre-election fears were not baseless. The manner of collation of the results tainted the credibility of the poll, as voiced out by local and international observers.

Interestingly, the same INEC which declared Okpebholo and APC winners of the election, could not defend what it did last week. The commission which had said it had a line-up of five witnesses that would give evidence to support its results, failed to field any witness to defend its action.

The electoral umpire had persuaded the tribunal to adjourn the case till Thursday, stressing that the witnesses would come to Abuja from BeninCity.

But to the surprise of everyone in the courtroom, its team of lawyers led by a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Kanu Agabi (SAN), told the tribunal that it would not produce any witness to testify on its behalf.

He said his team shelved the idea of bringing witnesses after it reviewed the case.

Following the absence of INEC witnesses and

p OLITICAL NOT e S

Buhari:

FormerPresidentMuhammaduBuharirecentlyrevealed

that he relies on rental income from one of his houses in KadunaStatetosupporthislivingexpensesafterserving two terms as Nigeria’s president.

Buhari, who made the comments while speaking at an All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting in Katsina, said Nigeria is a difficult country to govern, but most Nigerians are unaware.

ManyNigerianshaveexpresseddoubtsoverhisclaim, given the fact that as a retired general, he is entitled to a monthly pension, coupled with the generous life pension provided to former presidents and heads of state.

Buhari served as the military head of state from 1983 to 1985, taking over from Shehu Shagari after the 1983 coup d’état. He also served as president from 2015 to

closure of their case, counsel to Governor Okpebholo, Onyechi Ikpeazu, and D. C. Dewigwe, who represented the APC, pleaded for an adjournment to enable them to gather their witnesses and open their cases respectively.

The proceedings so far have shift attention to the judiciary to right the wrongs of the democratic process using the instrumentality of justice. Analysts and lovers of democracy are demanding absolute impartiality and independence from the tribunal.

Some of the analysts who spoke to THISDAY on condition of anonymity said the outcome of the current electoral litigation will send out a powerful message about Nigeria’s commitment to democracy.

They hope the tribunal will not repeat the judicial shenanigans in Plateau State, where judgments in cases that were filed after the 2023 general election were allegedly delivered based on influence peddling and the bidding of a political party.

The alleged miscarriage of justice had led to the sacking of 23 members of PDP from the states and National Assemblies, and Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

Were it not for the public outcry, the mission of infamy would have also succeeded in Kano State.

Considering the fact that the President of the Court of Appeal appoints judges on the panels of election petition tribunals in the country and the Court of Appeal, there are concerns as to whether the Edo State governorship election tribunal will do justice in the electoral dispute.

Before President Bola Tinubu assumed office in 2023, many Nigerians had criticised the judiciary for delivering questionable judgements, but the situation has refused to change. The all-important third arm of government is widely seen as being captured.

Nigerians believe any attempt to influence the tribunal’s proceedings or outcome would be a betrayal of public trust in the democratic institutions.

One analyst, who craved anonymity, stated, “We appeal to President Bola Tinubu and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, as custodians of what guides us as a people; we urge you to ensure that the tribunal is free from any form of negative interference from any quarters.” He added: “We call upon the tribunal to remain impartial and independent, upholding the rule of law and the principles of democracy. The people of Edo State and, indeed, all Nigerians, deserve nothing less.”

Whether the system would uphold democracy of the Edo State election tribunal, and guarantee equal justice for all at the end, only time can tell.

Something Not Adding up

2023, running on the platform of the APC.

Accordingtoafact-checkconductedbythePRNigeria team, showed that in 2016, Buhari stated that he did not receive the pensions due to him as a retired military officer, unlike many of his contemporaries.

Also, the federal government annually allocates funds in the budgets for former leaders. For instance, during his tenure, his administration allocated N7.8 billion for entitlements to former presidents, deputies, and others in 2021.

The 2021 allocation was the second-lowest amount designated for retired top government officials since 2017,whenN5.9billionwasbudgetedfortheirgratuities.

Of the N7.8 billion allocated in 2021, former heads of state, presidents, and their deputies were set to receive

a combined entitlement of N2.3 billion.

Similarly, asstipulatedbytheRevenueMobilisationand FiscalAllocationCommission(RMFAC),aformerpresident is entitled to a severance pay of N10.54 million, which is 300per cent of his annual basic salary, while a former vice president is entitled to N9.09 million.

Recently, the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government earmarked a total of N13,805,814,220 for the upkeep of former presidents, vice-presidents, heads of state, Chiefs of General Staff, retired heads of service, permanent secretaries, as well as retired heads of government agencies and parastatals in the 2024 fiscal year.

Is it that Buhari does not receive these entitlements? This issue is something he needs to clarify to Nigerians.

Justice Kekere-ekun

Buhari

BRIEFING NOTES

The Massacre of Villagers in Ebonyi

e jiofor Alike writes that with the obvious ineffectiveness of the Ebonyi State Police Command and other federal security operatives in protecting lives and property in the state, which led to the recent massacre of no fewer than 15 people in Ishielu Local Government Area of the state by suspected herdsmen, Governor Francis Nwifuru should establish a local security outfit to protect the people from senseless killings

For the umpteenth time, suspected herdsmen struck in Ebonyi State on Sunday, February 2, 2025, killing 15 people and destroying several property worth millions of naira in Nkalaha community in Ishielu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

Many residents of Ebonyi State had blamed the previous administration in the state for encouraging the influx of criminal herdsmen into the state.

Last Sunday’s attack swelled the list of atrocities being committed against the residents of the state by herdsmen without any challenge by the security agencies.

For instance, herdsmen had killed the Assistant Electoral Officer with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Afikpo LGA of the state, Emmanuel Igwe and Ajah Okafor, father of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth wing chieftain, Damian Okafor in Ishiagu community in Ivo LGA of the state on Sunday, June 18, 2023.

Igwe’s wife was also kidnapped by the herders who intercepted their car along the Ishiagu-Mpu road.

In November last year, the herders attacked Amaeze in Ishiagu community, killing a farmer and his two sons working on their farmland.

Just like the previous attacks, last Sunday’s attack was carried out unchallenged by the state police command and soldiers stationed in the state.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, some of the survivors said the attack lasted for several hours without intervention from the police or military.

“They (police and military) assured us that we were safe and should not leave. The next morning, armed men surrounded the village, shooting and burning houses,” said a community leader, Simon Idenyi.

“We counted 16 dead bodies, including a retired police officer and two pastors. Some were shot, others had their throats slit,” said another resident, Edeze Ogbu.

Residents claimed that security forces arrived hours after the attack, but instead of making arrests, they allegedly confiscated phones from those recording the destruction.

“The soldiers took our phones, saying we should not spread images of the killings. Later, they returned them and left,” Ogbu added.

The revelation by the traditional ruler of Nkalaha community, Igwe Thompson Ebe, that he had written a report on the situation in his community to Governor Francis Nwifuru and the security agencies confirmed their obvious failure to protect the people.

“I had written a report to the governor and copied

security agencies, because the problem started on January 20, up till January 31, 2025.

“We have continued to mediate between the Agila in Benue State and the Fulani herdsmen. I even invited them to my house in Abakaliki to talk to them about their cows that were allegedly killed. We have even made some arrests to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended. As we are still talking, this ugly incident of killings took place on Sunday.

“The herdsmen attacked a total of three villages - Amagu, Amaokwe and Umunesha. We are still recovering the bodies of the casualties. Now, the number has increased to 15, and we are looking for two others,” the traditional ruler narrated.

Governor Nwifuru had in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, on Monday, condemned the massacre of the people by those he described as strangers.

“This attack, which is not the first in the

area, is worrisome and a source of concern to the government and people of the state,” Nwifuru said.

“Our people are very accommodating, but strangers should not take advantage of their calmness to unleash terror on them,” the governor warned.

On her part, the state deputy governor, Princess Patricia Obila, who visited the community on Tuesday, gave a 24-hour ultimatum to security agencies in the state to fish out the suspected attackers of the three villages.

Princess Obila, who represented Governor Nwifuru, said: “The killers must be brought to book. I order you to fish them (the killers) out within 24 hours.”

In what the residents of the communities described as a case of administering medicine after death, the state Commissioner of Police (CP) Anthonia Uche-Anya, told journalists in Abakaliki that a special squad was on the trail of the suspected attackers.

Though she could not categorically state the cause of the violent attack, she however recalled the incident that happened in December 2024 where herders’ cattle were killed, indicating that security agencies might be looking in that direction.

But in a strange twist, CP Uche-Anya, on

Notes for file

Wednesday told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki that the police operatives had arrested one of the perpetrators.

“The officers and men had raided the hideout of the suspected gang and recovered different exhibits linked to the attack.

“During their operations, one of the suspects, Maduabuchi Ebeh ‘M’, was apprehended with the assistance of members of the Nkalaha community at the border of Nkalaha and Eha-Amufu and handed over to Isi-Uzo Division in the area.

“Upon interrogation, the suspect provided the names of others involved in the attack. Based on the information gathered, operatives from the command stormed the hideout of the suspected hoodlums.

“When the operatives raided the criminal hideout, other assailants fled the scene.

“However, the following items were recovered: three locally made single-barrelled guns, one police uniform, a pair of jungle boots, a pair of army camouflage shorts, and a pair of combat trousers,” she added.

However, the identity of the arrested suspect has raised suspicion as many residents believed that the suspect could be among the unknown gunmen terrorising the state and not one of the killers of the 15 people in the state, who were said to be herdsmen.

The CP’s claim that the suspect was handed over to the Isi- Uzo Police Division in Enugu State when his alleged offence was committed in Ebonyi State, also fuelled suspicions.

With the obvious failure of the state police command to provide security in the state, Governor Nwifuru should adopt the local security model in Anambra State to secure the people of the state.

Since Governor Charles Soludo established Agu Na Eche Mba to secure the people of the state, the group has recorded enormous success in tackling insecurity in the state.

Last Wednesday’s removal of the Anambra State Police Commissioner, Nnaghe Obono Itam, barely nine months after assuming office, and his replacement by Livingston Ikioye Urutuku, was believed to be linked to his failure to address the rising insecurity in the state.

Since Itam assumed office, following the retirement of CP Aderemi Adesoye, he could not contain the rising rate of kidnapping, cultism, and senseless killings.

Governor Nwifuru should disband the existing Ebubeagu security outfit, whose activities have been politicised and set up a new local outfit to protect the residents of the state from the rampaging herdsmen.

A Sigh of r elief for Fani-Kayode

Former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, is perhaps one of the most prosecuted former public servants in Nigeria, having faced criminal prosecution and trials in four major cases and one appeal by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He is also one of the most discharged and acquitted fellows.

For over the last 18 years, he was in court for charges of corruption and has won every case with his last - at least for now - held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

The prosecution of the former minister started in 2008 by the antigraft commission at the Federal High Court in Lagos before Justice Ahmad,

Justice Binta Nyako and finally Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia.

He was discharged and acquitted on July 1, 2015 by Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia.

He was again prosecuted from 2016 to 2023 in Lagos before Justice M.S. Hassan, Justice Aikawa and Justice Oziagor but the charges preferred against him were quashed by the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos on April 21, 2023.

While that was ongoing, he was in court again from 2016 to 2025 before Justice John Tsoho at the Federal High Court in Abuja and was discharged on all counts on January 15, 2025.

Fani-Kayode was also in court from 2021 to 2025 for allegedly forging medical reports before Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe of the Lagos State High

Court who last Tuesday discharged and acquitted him on all counts after holding that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against him.

The journey was not a funny one for the former minister in terms of finances to defend himself and other personal discomforts including frequent travels to and from courts.

Speaking to journalists after last Tuesday’s discharge, he expressed gratitude to God over the verdict, vindication and great relief, stating that he now feels overjoyed that he is finally free.

The lesson here is for the EFCC to always conduct investigation diligently before going after their suspects. It is left to imagination how much the commission would have wasted on the needless journey due to not properly doing their homework well.

Fani-Kayode

Nwifuru

Scenarios of ECOWAS-AES Relationships: Nigeria’s Strategic Autonomy as a Major Dynamic

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is currently pained by the establishment of the Alliance des États du Sahel (AES: Alliance of Sahel States, ASS). The pain is unfortunate because it prompted the withdrawal of the AES Member States from the ECOWAS. For Nigeria, the withdrawal is more painful for many reasons. For instance, it was Nigeria that initiated, and in collaboration with the Republic of Togo, paved the way for the establishment of the ECOWAS on 28 May, 1975 in Lagos. It was then an ECOWAS of 15 original Members, and then 16 with the accession of Cape Verde in 1977. The objective is to promote economic integration. Consequently, it cannot be in Nigeria’s interest to build a house and see it destroyed. Mauritania’s withdrawal, in December 2000, from the ECOWAS was not in Nigeria’s interest despite the disagreement between the ECOWAS and Mauritania over the mistreatment of African Malians to the advantage of Arab Malians in Mauritania.

Mauritania is essentially more affiliated to the Arab world than to black Africa politically and culturally. She is a member of the Arab League and has Arabic as its official language. Mauritania considered ECOWAS’ condemnation of its political governance as an unnecessary interference in its domestic affairs. Besides, Mauritania also considered that the Arab Maghreb Union in North Africa was better than the ECOWAS, and, therefore, opted to join the Maghrebin Union after withdrawing from the ECOWAS. This new partnership did not work well as expected and Mauritania returned to the ECOWAS by joining as an Associate Member in August 2017. Nigeria’s interest as a founding initiator is to ensure the survival of the ECOWAS by enabling the return of the AES countries under different status.

Secondly, it cannot but be difficult to explain why it is under Nigeria as a founding initiator and again as Chairman of the ECOWAS that three Member States withdrew from the organization. Indeed, it is more painful. It is against this background that we conjecturally discuss the likely patterns of relationships between the ECOWAS and the AES and also explicate the implications for Nigeria’s strategic autonomy as propounded by Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.

Likely Scenarios of the Relationship

The first likely scenario is the failure of ECOWAS diplomacy in bringing back the AES countries by the end of July 2025. As such, international power rivalry should be expected. For instance, in the event of Western conspiracy to remove the various military junta in the AES countries, will the people, Malians, Burkinabé, and Nigériens, go along with the conspiracy? The military juntas derive their strength from the unflinching support from their people. In terms of strategic calculations, the challenge for Nigeria is how to relate more with the people directly. This is where the deployment of citizen diplomacy is necessary.

A second likely scenario is the coming back of the French by whatever means. If they come back, will the returning be France as an African Power or Power in Africa? France is generally considered as an African power because of her military influence, because of her capacity to influence political, economic and cultural developments in the various Francophone countries in Africa. Now that this influence is being neutralized, with the introduction of local languages to replace French as lingua franca and with historical ties being made a nonsense of, the likelihood of France coming back to be an African power is remote. As a great power in Africa is more likely, and in this case, rivalry with other great powers cannot be ruled out. As a power in Africa, France is likely to engage in an indirect use of diplomacy of soft power in which case Nigeria must be more cautious in not being seen as a

tool as we have once advised. Nigeria is rightly or wrongly perceived as a collaborating with France to undermine the sovereignty of the AES countries.

Thirdly, in this regard, there is the likelihood of the AES countries still developing hostility via-a-vis Nigeria because of their perception of the ECOWAS and Nigeria under PBAT as aiding France and other foreign powers in the prolongation of their domestic problems: foreign exploitation of their natural resources, terrorism-driven insecurity, foreign destabilization of their countries, democracy-driven poor governance, etc. Put differently, how does Nigeria reshape this perception of Nigeria being considered a stooge and unfriendly? Again, the resort to the adoption of citizen diplomacy has become a desideratum.

A fourth likely scenario is intensification of terrorist threats at both the levels of the AES and European Union countries. It is useful to recall here that European support for the Sahel countries in their war against terror is not à priori because of altruism. The support is indeed in protection of European national interests. The European Union wants to contain terrorism in faraway Africa, and by so doing, preventing it from being brought closer to Europe. Destroying terrorism in Africa necessarily weakens and incapacitates the exportation of terror to Europe. Consequently, now that the European Union cannot fight the use of terror in the AES countries, the challenge of how not to allow terrorism being brought to

The AES as a body can become an Associate Corporate Member of the ECOWAS. This means that the ECOWAS must begin to look at three categories of membership: original membership, associate individual membership as it is the case with Mauritania, and associate corporate membership to accommodate the AES. The border of political differences must still accommodate the border of cooperation. This is a major challenge for Nigeria. First, efforts should be made to investigate how the 4-Ds can assist strategic autonomy as a foreign policy objective. For instance, democracy can be an asset and also a liability. How can democracy in Nigeria foster further democratization in the region or help consolidate democracy where it already exists? How can Nigeria provide electoral assistance? Can Nigeria promote electoral democracy when it does not exist in Nigeria? Even though President Donald Trump is not only a problem to America, but also to the whole world with his Trumpism, his suggestion that Nigerian professionals should stay at home to help nation-building is a welcome development. But the environment must not be inclement. The NIDCOM under Honourable Abike Dabiri-Erewa should be specially strengthened to assist in ensuring that the Nigerian Diaspora plays greater part in the political governance of the country. Development and Demography are two sides of the same coin but have no meaning without the people. Life is meaningless for the people without development. Development is an objective of every living human being. Thus the diplomacy of 4-Ds is very critical in achieving strategic autonomy.

the doorsteps of EU countries is what should be addressed. This challenge also remains the same for Nigeria as the Boko Haram is affiliated to the Al Qaeda.

Fifthly, with or without any quarrel, Niger Republic cannot but permanently remain a geo-political neighbor of Nigeria. This simply means that whatever differences that may arise in their bilateral relationships must still be resolved. Any intensification of terrorism in Niger cannot but have implications for Nigeria. Nigeria cannot therefore afford the luxury of being lonely or alone in the anti-terror war. This scenario cannot be set aside. There is the need for collaboration at the Nigerian sub-regional level (Nigerian and all the immediate neighbours). The issue in this case is that the AES countries are more interested in the protection of their national sovereignty and Nigeria’s protection of her own sovereignty cannot be detrimental to the protection of the AES sovereignty. The Francophone countries are fed up with French interferences in their electoral politics. Nigeria cannot be against AES complaints about electoral interferences and be expecting friendliness from them. Nigeria therefore has to pursue a diplomacy of compromise as a strategy.

A sixth likely scenario is if the French do return, how will the current Russianisation be contained? If it is not contained, how does Nigeria intend to deal with the use of West Africa as a new battle ground for a likely French- or Russo-American proxy war? In this regard, many are the foreseeable challenges. For instance, the likelihood of total French divorce is not foreseeable for the time being. It will take time before French can be easily replaced as a lingua franca. France is still the depository for the foreign exchange earnings of Francophone Africa in general. 50% of the 300 million speakers of French language are in Africa. In fact, Cameroun is bilingual and a new FrenchEnglish pidgin language is unconsciously is in the making in the country. In fact, it will take time before French impact can be done away with. French language is still the medium for educational training. Even if French language is no longer the lingua franca at the national level, the AES countries cannot do away with French language at the international level because it is one of the two official languages of the United Nations. It is the first international diplomatic language. Consequently, for Nigeria, the challenge is how to reconcile ‘what is’ with ‘what ought to be.’ In other words, the redefinition of the 4-Ds to respond to these challenges has become another top priority. Seventhly, there is the challenge of continuity of regional insecurity. One of the major complaints of the AES against the ECOWAS was its inability to do something meaningful to assist in the war on terror. And true, no single country can successfully contain terrorism. Even the United States, as powerful as it is, has to seek the understanding of many stakeholders to help. Airlines do control passengers going to the US from their point of embarkation. Efforts are made to ensure that visas are legally issued. Consequently, Nigeria must admit that its national security is intertwined with that of the whole of the West Africa region.

This means that regional security must be a top priority of Nigeria’s 4-Ds and strategic autonomy. The challenge is to look at the ECOWAS Protocol on Mutual Assistance in Defence, done on May 29, 1981 in Freetown. The Protocol is a regional mechanism that required Member Signatories to provide troops in the event of an external aggression: it is considered that any armed threat or aggression against any Member is also a threat and aggression against the entire community. Will ECOWAS without the AES countries still be the same community?

In the same vein, the 1978 Protocol on Aggression requires all Member States to refrain from the threat or use of force or aggression… against the territorial integrity and political independence of other sovereign states. External aggression is not defined in the context of an aggression coming from within Africa. Will any extra-African threats from the AES sub-region be considered a threat on the entire ECOWAS region? If yes, how will regional and continental integration be affected? Will the international community not be compelled to raise the issue of IR2P if the region becomes disorderly? Will the ECOWAS region, not to say the West Africa region, not become another Somalia or the Congo? These questions require further explications at the level of Nigeria’s strategic autonomy.

Nigeria’s Strategic Autonomy as Major Dynamic

The conduct and management of Nigeria’s foreign policy before the advent of Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) has been largely done at five different, but still complementary levels: bilateral diplomatic missions; establishment of Joint Commissions; Strategic Cooperation; Strategic Partnerships; and through Bi-national Commissions. These levels are generally done at the bilateral level, rather than at the plurilateral and multilateral levels. It is the emphasis on the mania of the relationship that largely explains the nuances. While cooperation has a general scope in terms of areas to be covered, partnership underscores the extent of commitment defined by parity. Joint Commissions are about institutionalization of the relationship, while the factor of ‘bi-national’ explains the highest level of involvement and the high level of importance of the relationship.

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Tinubu

ENGAGEMENTS

Courting Global Anti-Americanism

An unwritten paradox has defined the United States up to this moment. It is the only country loved by most of those who have never set foot on its soil. It is also the one nation most despised by many who have not visited it. Loved and hated in nearly equal measure by people across the world. The return of Donald Trump to the White House is about to change all that for the worse. There is a growing wave of people around the world who are beginning to hate America with passion because of the actions of Mr. Trump. It is not hatred for Americans as a people but for the actions of its new government.

The day after Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on imports from Canada, spontaneous boos greeted the playing of the American national anthem at most sporting venues across Canada. Previously, Canadians used to hail at the Star Spangled Banner. Similarly, hostile street marches in Mexico and other Latin American countries greeted the arrival of planes bringing home deportees from the United States. Most of those Latin Americans who went to America as illegal immigrants went there in quest of the American dream, in search of a better life for themselves and their children in a land that had been historically touted as God’s Own Country, a place of gold and goodness.

Many of them may not even have paid attention to the fine points of migrant documentation as a condition for embracing the good life promised by the lure of America. Now they are being hoarded home in plane loads of unfulfilled cargo and broken dreams. Some are returning home in manacles and leg iron, humiliated for the crime of dreaming. Worse still, even the innocent are being mass branded as criminals and gangsters, carriers of poison in their blood with which they went to poison the perfect American stock.

This is not the moment to dispute the rhetoric of the new old man in the White House. Nor is it a time or even proper to query the right of sovereign states to protect their borders or define their national interests. It is only a moment to contemplate what damage Mr. Trump’s actions are likely to do to the image and conception of America in the minds of the peoples and nations of the world.

Tariffs have been slammed on many significant nations. China, Mexico, Canada. The European union countries have been threatened with tariffs and other hostile acts of American economic nastiness. For instance, a purely domestic land legislation matter in South Africa has been greeted by indecent hectoring and bad language from the White House. South African leadership has responded in kind, indicating that bad manners is not the exclusive preserve of any nation irrespective of its gravity and the reach of its guns.

Plane loads of angry deportees have been delivered to Mexico, Guatemala, Columbia, Venezuela and other Latin American nations. Mr. Marco Rubio, the new Secretary of State has travelled round to places like Panama to warn them of the bad days coming. Going round the world with a single message of threats to sovereign nations seems to be the new diplomacy from Washington.

Mr. Trump had earlier pulled the United States out of the World Health Organization thereby shrinking the volume of resources available to the poorer nations of the world for medicine and primary healthcare. Without any notice, the poor of the world have been rudely told to “look out for yourselves”. In the same vein, Mr. Trump, in the pretext to cut the costs of American government, has sent out his new billionaire friend. Elon Musk, to physically shut down the long standing department of USAID –United States Agency for International Development. Its work force of over 10,000 is being reduced to an inhuman 250. An agency established more than 40 years ago by late President John F. Kennedy as a bearer of development assistance for the poorer segments of the world

is being shut down without notice or a humane programme. Its American and international work force is being suddenly laid off work while its worldwide stretch of humanitarian programmes is being shut down. The millions of mouths it previously fed will now go without food. The sick that depended on USAID medical outreach to continue living are being left to die slow avoidable deaths. An epidemic of deprivation is being deliberately unleashed on the most vulnerable segments of our global humanity.

For President Kennedy and those who came after him and maintained the tradition of United States assistance to the poor and vulnerable, agencies like USAID were agencies of soft power, instruments for the projection of American power as a force for good and an instrument to help heal a world damaged and injured by the Second World War and the injustice of global inequity. But suddenly, these agencies of good are now being terminated crudely and rudely by a leadership propped up by democracy itself in a place of hope and original goodness.

Add to this potential well of international anti-Americanism, the groundswell of domestic ill will that is already being bred by the tsunami of firings and layoffs in many government departments in America itself- environmental activity departments, the FBI, the military, the DEI departments and those whose employment they facilitated. Not to talk of the hundreds of thousands through the value chain of agricultural and industrial production and those whose employment depended on the work of the illegal immigrants – farm hands, food processors, grocery shop packers and loaders etc.

This groundswell of brewing antiAmericanism is of course in addition to long standing and existing antiAmerican feelings around the world.

In the Muslim word, that negativity towards the United States and its foreign policies and shows of power around the world over time is axiomatic. In Iran and Yemen, in Iraq and Lebanon, in Syria and a good number of the new Middle East states, America is merely tolerated because of its economic aggression and cultural omnipresence.

This fertile ground of anti-Americanism in the Arab world is only being fertilized by recent US policy overtures. Take the latest proposal of Mr. Trump to purge the disputed Gaza strip of its indigenous Palestinian population by relocating them to other Arab countries. This disguised land grab and ethnic cleansing is being greeted globally by the international community as a further deepening of the injustice against the Palestinians. It is also seen as an unjust strengthening of the colonialist oppression of the Palestinians by the Israeli occupation.

Even in the best of times, Arab fundamentalist anti-Americanism is both cultural and historically unavoidable. America as an efflorescent outgrowth of Western civilization. It is therefore essentially a Judeo-Christian manifestation of human civilization. To that extent, it remains antithetical to the values espoused and long cherished and pursued by the contrary Islamic civilization.

Similarly, Chinese anti-Americanism remains a latent force. Chinese do not need to make any special effort to cultivate an anti-American attitude. The Confucian ethos is inherently in competition with the classic Western ethos most lavishly displayed by the United States as a global power. It is a power with a civilizational muscle and undisguised global dominating aspirations. To the Chinese state and public psychology, then, America is and has always been a competing power for world domination.

To the Chinese, anti-Americanism is part and parcel of a long standing global competition. For Mr. Trump to fire up that perennially latent sentiment with a 10% tariff on Chinese imports into the United States is to further weaponize a pre-existing sentiment. This is the reason why the retaliatory

Anti-Americanism in Russia is alive and recent. In the aftermath of the Cold War, successive administrations in Moscow have carried on with the anti-American mindset except for the brief spell under Mikhail Gorbachev which was essentially a transitional regime. Vladimir has no problem with being inherently anti-American. He can operate a pseudo-capitalist economy for purposes of trading with the rest of the world. But in terms of values and global power competition, Russia is unashamedly anti- American and anti Western for reasons of power competition and ideology. An inherently authoritarian ethos on the basis of which Russian power is being groomed cannot but be counter democratic. Even Mr. Trump’s inherently authoritarian manners do not impress the Russians as anything approaching the existent of the Russian establishment.

To carry his untidy trade war of tariffs to Europe will tempt to export antiAmericanism to an unlikely destination. Europe’s link to the United States is both ideological and strategic. In terms of global security the United States is joined to Europe at the hips. The trans Atlantic corridor has historically served as both a cultural and common defense bond. More importantly, the economic link between the US and continental Europe is also a cultural bond. A tariff war may breed antiAmericanism in Europe but will hurt both sides deeply.

For us in Africa, the Trump stampede could be damaging from the perspective of the little trade that has been thriving between some African countries and the United States since the passage of Bill Clinton’s AGOA trade agreement encouraging the export of African goods to the United States. The fear here is that though the volume of trade between the US and Africa remains negligible, Mr. Trump’s primordial racism might tempt him to want to punish some “s-hole” counties with punitive trade measures.

tariff regime by Xi Jinping was greeted with universal applause by a cross section of the Chinese public.

• Trump

Is El-Rufai Feeling Dwarfed by Uba Sani?

Jamil Idris

It is amazing the length the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, would usually go to wreck maximum havoc. Perhaps the greatest weapon in el-Rufai’s arsenal is his uncanny ability to deploy warped logic to obfuscate raw and irrefutable facts. Using what he assumes to be sophistry, el-Rufai at all times seeks to sow the seed of discord and pitches leaders against the led. Even as an influential Minster of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) during the Obasanjo administration, el-Rufai perpetually pitched that government against the people and brought so much opprobrium to that government in spite of the best efforts of the legendary Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

Similarly, as Governor of Kaduna State for eight years, he unconscionably reaped unmerited political dividends by pitting unsuspecting groups and persons against each other. He left the state soaked in tension, insecurity and huge debt. Thank God for the phenomenal leadership qualities of his young successor, Senator Uba Sani, who has since assumption of office in May 2023, been busy cleaning up the huge mess el-Rufai left behind. Governor Sani, who was recently named Nigeria’s Governor of The Year (2024), has been doing an exceedingly great job uniting the people and opening up rural communities across Kaduna State irrespective of the ethnic or religious inclinations of the good people residing in the 23 local government areas of the state. No wonder that for the first time in decades, Kaduna has been enjoying relative peace, safety, security and sustainable development. May the beautiful state never again be governed by a divisive and mischievous leader like Mallam el-Rufai.

El-Rufai is at it again. He has returned to a familiar path: a foolish mission to destabilise and possibly bring down the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at all costs. El-Rufai, typically is bent on sacrificing any and everything on sight to achieve this. He knows that to get to Tinubu, he would need to contend with staunch supporters of the President. So, it comes to no one as a surprise that he has been concocting and spreading childish and unfounded lies against Governor Sani, a known ally of President Tinubu.

Speaking of the mess el-Rufai left behind in Kaduna. It is public knowledge that Governor Sani inherited a staggering debt burden of $587million, N85 billion and N115 billion contractual liabilities from Nasir el-Rufai. And that is even putting it mildly. Governor Uba Sani also inherited hundreds of abandoned projects that had already guzzled huge sums of money, allegedly paid out

to faceless contractors and ‘Consultants’. I will not even dwell on this since many of the persons involved in this possible heist are currently being prosecuted by anti-corruption agencies in competent courts.

Typically, deploying subterfuge, fallacy, and deliberate falsification of facts, el-Rufai was at his destructive best at a recent gathering of fellow disgruntled politicians in Abuja, mischievously dubbed a “National Conference”. It was not a conference of any sort; it was just a gathering of power mongers who are obviously united by their anger and distraught for being left out of the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu. Most miserable of the lot at the ‘Conference’ were known members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who for selfish reasons, want the Tinubu administration ousted at all costs. They do not even care if the nation’s hard-won democracy is endangered in the process. El Rufai at the sordid event sought to incite the populace against not just the President but against the ruling APC at large.

According to him, “I no longer recognise the APC. No party organ has met in two years; no caucus, no NEC, nothing. You don’t even know if it is a one-man show; it’s a zero-man show.

The problems that led to the creation of the APC remain unresolved, but I no longer believe the APC is interested in addressing them. The distance between me and the party is widening.” The very loquacious former Governor el-Rufai, echoed the earlier position of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that the APC and President Tinubu were bribing persons in opposition parties in order to destroy their respective parties.

“The way and manner opposition political parties are being targeted for destruction, and the style and quality of governance in this country today are a national emergency. It should concern everyone. And I think this is a problem for all of us to think about and play a role in changing because, as His Excellency (Atiku) said, we stand the risk of losing democracy itself,” el-Rufai said.

Recall also that the same El Rufai had earlier dismissed the Tinubu government as one being run by illiterates. “You cannot afford to have illiterates, semi-illiterates, and cunning people as your leaders. This is why we end up with the poor leadership we have today,” he said.

Apparently amused by the hypocrisy of several of the politicians who attended and spoke at this “National Conference”, persons familiar with their antecedents have been reacting. On his part, Governor Sani, in his usual intelligent but blunt manner, dismissed them as persons merely scheming to grab power at all costs and not that they genuinely mean well for the people.

“Most of these politicians that came out and say they are forming a coalition or something like that and were at that gathering, are politicians that were in government only less than two years ago. What did they do when they were in government? They are only fighting to grab power, not because they could do anything better,” Governor Sani said. Dismissing the wild allegations, the politicians heaped on President Tinubu and the APC, Governor Uba Sani insisted that no President in Nigeria’s contemporary history had ever practiced democracy like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Governor Sani cited the example of the very cordial working relationship between the federal government and the sub-nationals. “The President treats all the States and governors equally irrespective of region or political parties.

For the first time, we have a true democrat who actively fought for democracy as the President of Nigeria and it is not a surprise that finally we are now practicing true democracy in the country,” Uba Sani enthused.

Reeling out other achievements of the Tinubu administration, Governor Uba Sani particularly contended that States in Nigeria are now earning more money because of President Tinubu’s bold decision to withdraw subsidy on petroleum products. “But for the bold step the President took to withdraw subsidy on petroleum products, most States in the country would not have been able to pay salaries to workers not to talk of executing projects that would impact positively on the lives of the people that voted for us.”

Given the huge debt burden he inherited in Kaduna State, Governor Uba Sani said the State would have been very badly impacted given that nearly N5 Billion is deducted every month at source from statutory allocations to the State to service the debt.

Moments after Governor Sani made this comment, El Rufai who has been craving even the flimsiest of opportunities to lash out at his high-achieving successor in office, simply went bonkers. The cheeky man accused Governor Sani of being “bribed” by President Bola Tinubu to defend his administration.

“Every day I see this governor embarrassingly and sycophantically rambling, I used to wonder why? However, confirming that Federal Government ‘reimbursements, interventions and grants’ in excess of N150bn have been given selectively to Kaduna by Tinubu, in the last 18 months, now explains everything. By all means, defend Asiwaju for the conditional cash transfer. Asiwaju has earned it, coming from you. The people of Kaduna State will judge at the right time and place. Have a nice day,” el-Rufai twitted

via his verified X account.

This, of course is el-Rufai at his devious, divisive and mischievous best. For a man who has previously served as a Minister and only just left office as a two-term governor, el-Rufai is well aware that the federal government occasionally approves the release of statutory grants to all (or any) qualified states of the federation. Same applies to due reimbursements and such other interventions. He also knows all too well that no state in the country, no matter how close the governor of the state is to the president, gets any of these funds if it is not due or qualified for any. More importantly, el-Rufai knows that the processes of releasing funds to states follow laid down procedures that involve a plethora of agencies of the federal government. However, it is very convenient for el-Rufai to glibly twit that Governor Sani is defending the President of his country and the Leader of his party because Mr. President is “dashing” his state money. Haba Mallam!

Truth is that, unlike el-Rufai, Governor Sani has lived his entire adult life fighting for the wellbeing and welfare of the people, particularly the downtrodden and underserved – the likes El Rufai abandoned in rural communities across Kaduna State. Unlike El Rufai, Uba Sani is not a power monger who grabs power for the heck of it. Governor Uba Sani is an empathetic transformational leader who deploys political power to free the people from the grip of poverty, illiteracy, insecurity and under-development. As FCT Minister, Mallam el-Rufai was one of the most vociferous defenders of his boss and party leader, President Olusegun Obasanjo. Similarly, as Governor of Kaduna State, el-Rufai was even ready to die defending the President at the time and the leader of his party, President Muhammadu Buhari. Nobody queried his motive or dubiously alleged that he was defending his leaders because they were ‘dashing’ him (or his state) money. So, why is Governor Sani’s stout defence and support for President Tinubu any different or suddenly induced by so-called ‘reimbursements, interventions and grants to Kaduna State.’

Clearly, el-Rufai’s legendary failings can no longer be hidden. Neither should it be ignored by any right-thinking people. Worse still, el-Rufai is shameless. He may well be overrated given that he ought to be familiar with the inimitable assertion of Karl Marx that shame is a revolutionary sentiment. In other words, all normal persons need to feel shame, occasionally, in order to grow to higher and better heights. Grow up Mallam.

Dr.IdrisresidesinBarnawa,Kaduna

El-Rufai Sani

“APC NWC has taken an understanding that it will no longer be business-as-usual in Anambra State. That era has gone for good” – National Chairman of APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje issuing a quit notice the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anambra State Ganduje to

SIMO N KOLAWOLE

How Many States Do We Need?

The House of Reps has received proposals to create 31 new states across the country. Amazing. If every proposal sails through (which I doubt), that means we will end up with 67 states since we currently have 36 of them. That would mean 67 state governors, 67 state cabinets (with thousands of commissioners, special advisers and special assistants), 67 houses of assembly (with thousands of lawmakers and their aides) and, how do I say this… 67 motorcades full of the latest models of bullet-proof SUVs. With almost every state trying to build a “cargo” airport, we could end up with more. On a different note, someone said with 31 new state capitals, grassroots development will be faster.

At this point, let us take a short journey into history. Nigeria started out in 1914 as an amalgamation of two units: the Northern Protectorate and the Southern Protectorate. Each protectorate was made up of provinces — which are mostly states today — and native authorities — which we now call councils. Nigeria practically ran a unitary system for decades, with the colonial government devolving certain powers to the native authorities for administrative purposes. As nationalism grew and Nigerians became more politically active, internal fault lines also became obvious as politics was played largely along narrow geographic and ethnic lines. There was no Nigeria as a constituency.

By 1946, Sir Arthur Richards, the governor-general, decided that Nigeria was essentially a country of three ethnic groups, so he created three regions: Northern (Hausa/Fulani), Western (Yoruba) and Eastern (Igbo). Every region had vast minorities, but the political construct was that Nigeria was built on a tripod: Hausa/Fulani, Igbo and Yoruba. In 1947, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the sage, wrote ‘Path to Nigerian Freedom’, famously saying Nigeria was “a mere geographical expression”. Awo basically argued for stronger regions to make the federation work and to build a stronger entity from the geography. He criticised Sir Arthur for not consulting Nigerians before producing the constitution.

Nonetheless, Richards’ attempt at federalism started an evolution. With the criticisms and comments by Nigerians, his successor produced a more broadly accepted constitution, the MacPherson Constitution, in 1951. Nigerians were widely consulted and the constitution led to limited self-rule in the 1950s, when Awo became premier of the Western Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello premier of the Northern Region, and Prof Eyo Eta premier of the Eastern Region. Lagos retained its independent status as the federal capital. We maintained this three-region federation until after independence. It was in 1963 that Western Region minorities got what they agitated for: the Midwestern Region.

Indeed, the minorities in the regions wanted their own administrative units. The Henry Willinks Commission, set up in 1957 by the colonial government to look into the demands of the minority ethnic groups, harvested these sentiments nationwide. One thing that has been clear in Nigeria’s history is that the minority ethnic groups have always expressed misgivings about being subsumed and subjugated by the larger groups — particularly the tripod. When the Gowon administration created 12 states from the four regions in 1967, it killed two birds with one stone: fulfilling the desires of minorities to have their own states as well as weakening the breakaway Eastern Region.

In 1976, the 12 states became 19 under Gen Murtala Muhammed. We did not create more until 11 years later. That was in 1987 when Gen Ibrahim Babangida added two. As we prepared to transit to democracy, he added another nine states in 1991, taking the total to 30. And in 1996, they became 36 states under Gen Sani Abacha. Regardless, the agitation for more states has been non-stop. Those who had initially rejoiced soon started feeling marginalised in their new states. Today, we have

Tajudden Abbas, Speaker of the House of Reps

31 proposals on the table of the House of Reps. If the proposals succeed, maybe we would be thinking of 774 states in the distant future. It appears every local government would fancy becoming a state.

Why this unending clamour for new states? I’ve already mentioned the major reason: people feel marginalised in their current homes and would prefer a state where they would dominate. They don’t say the second part openly, but that is a driving force. I have looked at the list several times and I can see no other reason for some people to be clamouring for a state other than the desire to be a big fish in a small ocean rather than a small fish in a big ocean. There is a feeling that if they have their own state, they will no longer play second fiddle. However, the clamour is usually officially anchored on the need for “grassroots” development — which is a legitimate objective, in any case. Will new states address complaints of marginalisation? That is not a sure thing. Even in states that look homogenous, there are internal divisions. In Ogun state, for instance, the Yewa subgroup of Yoruba complain that they have not produced a governor. If you go ahead and create Yewa state (it was not proposed, by the way), there will still be some tendencies there that will feel marginalised in another eight years. We will start to see divisions along the lines of Ado-Odo/Ota, Ipokia, Yewa South, Yewa North and Imeko Afon. The more you atomise a society, the more you magnify latent differences that were previously not so obvious. They could be religious, historical or lingual.

Will the creation of new states solve development problems? There can’t be a straight answer to that. Some states may prosper and become viable, but others may struggle. As things stand today, many states are not a going concern. If they were businesses, they would have been shut down long ago. Internally generated revenue (IGR) in many states is mainly from government contracts and personal income taxes of civil servants. The IGR cannot pay the bills. The federation allocation — which deploys a formular to make sure no state is fiscally left behind — is the saving grace. The irony, though, is that every proposal for a new state comes with lofty claims of potential self-sufficiency!

Will the creation of new states satisfy those clamouring for the restructuring of Nigeria? This is a question I cannot answer if I am asked. I have been listening to the proponents of restructuring and what I think

I hear them say all the time is that we should go back to regions which, by the current configuration, would mean the six geo-political zones. One faction of the restructuring movement wants us to do away with the 36 states so that we would have only six houses of assembly, six governors, six cabinets — and six convoys of the latest bullet-proof SUVs. I do not believe this faction will accept state creation as it may end up defeating the purpose and practice of ethnic nationalism.

Under their restructuring model, the entire Yoruba ethnic group, for instance, will come under one governor. That means the people of Egba, Awori, Ekiti, Ife, Ijesha, Ijebu, Igbomina, Oyo, Ondo, Owo, Ikale, Eko and Oke-Ogun (some will even include Okun) will now have one governor and they will be happy ever after. It is a bit complicated. Oke-Ogun people are already complaining that they are being marginalised in Oyo state and that they have not been allowed to produce a governor. When will it reach their turn if the entire Yoruba groups come under one governor? From their proposal, it seems to me that the Oke-Ogun people actually want more states. I could well be very wrong.

And now to the most important question: will new states be created? Maybe that is where we should have started the discussion from. If you noticed, only military governments have been able to create states — and by fiat. Yet, the Midwestern was created in 1963 under the Tafawa Balewa administration but that is a topic for another day. However, under the 1999 Constitution (as the case was under the 1979 Constitution), it would be easier for Manchester United to win the 2024/2025 English Premier League than to create a new state in Nigeria. The conditions are so stringent that it will take an unusual cooperation and self-sacrifice of the political elite nationwide to make it happen.

Section 8 (1) says: “An Act of the National Assembly for the purpose of creating a new State shall only be passed if - (a) a request, supported by at least two-thirds majority of members (representing the area demanding the creation of the new State) in each of the following, namely - (i) the Senate and the House of Representatives, (ii) the House of Assembly in respect of the area, and (iii) the local government councils in respect of the area, is received by the National Assembly; (b) a proposal for the creation of the State is thereafter approved in a referendum by at least two-thirds majority of the people of the area where the demand for creation of the State originated.” Let us take a pause.

Now, in the event that the process gets there, we will go into a very costly and cumbersome stage as required by Section 8 (1) (c) which says “the result of the referendum is then approved by a simple majority of all the States of the Federation supported by a simple majority of members of the Houses of Assembly”. Please read again. That means a referendum held in 36 states! Also, a simple majority of 36 houses of assembly must support it. We can then finally move to Section 8 (1) (d) which says “the proposal is approved by a resolution passed by two-thirds majority of members of each House of the National Assembly”. The framers should have simply told us not to bother with state creation!

Don’t take my word for it, but I do not know of any governor that would, with his eyes open, allow his state to be divided under him. If the proposals were to improbably pass the early stages, the critical approval by 36 houses of assembly will be difficult to come by. I would rather propose that an extra state is created in the south-east as a political consensus to address the imbalance. We can also create more LGAs across the federation if we are truly interested in grassroots development. Finally, it is important for every state to consciously promote justice, equity, accommodation and peace as we continue this tedious nation-building process. Atomising Nigeria is definitely not the solution.

And Four Other Things…

BASIC EDUCATION

The federal government is considering making 12 years the basic education in Nigeria. In case this sounds Greek to you, it means before you can get a school certificate, you must have finished senior secondary school. If I understand it well, that means we will now have Year 1 to Year 12. Rather the 6-3-3-4 (four years for tertiary education), it will now be 12-4. I think I get the idea. Nobody uses primary school leaving certificate anymore, so terminating your education after six years does not serve any purpose. Maybe it will make you go further. However, stakeholders must buy into this. There will be trade-offs, so we must not rush except the pros outweigh the cons. Homework. .

SPEED AND SENSE

It has finally happened. The Lagos state ministry of transportation has installed cameras to monitor speeding and manage traffic flows in some parts of Lagos. For now, Alapere and Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way will be monitored by speed cameras with a fine of N50,000 hanging over whoever speeds above 80km/h and 60km/h respectively. E-police will catch red light violators at Nurudeen Olowopopo Road, Alausa, with a fine of N20,000. I knew it would come to this one day. I can assure you that Lagos state will make billions of naira from this. But I am curious: will the cameras and e-police also catch government vehicles and security agencies? They break the law the most. Watching..

TO BE FRANK

I was very worried recently when some people started a social media campaign purporting to promote Mr Frank Mba, a deputy inspector general of police (DIG), for the position of inspector general of police (IGP) which is not vacant as Mr Kayode Egbetokun is in situ. I happen to know Mba very well. I know he is very close to the IGP, so this media campaign must be hurting him badly. Unfortunately for those promoting a certain narrative about him, IGPs are not appointed on the basis of posts and reposts. It is a political appointment. There is no waiting list. The political authorities can choose as they like. If these internet warriors truly love Mba, they should stop hurting him. Wisdom.

NO COMMENT

Mr Kabiru Turaki, former minister of special duties and inter-governmental affairs, has been arraigned in court on false marriage, adultery, and other offences. He denies all counts. He is accused of deceitfully inducing a belief of lawful marriage, adultery and criminal intimidation “contrary to sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code.” He allegedly cohabited with Ms Hadiza Musa Bafta in Abuja. He was accused of renting a place for her at Guzape and making her believe he was married to her and continuously having sex with her which produced a beautiful baby girl. Turaki allegedly threatened to use his influence and position to terminate the lives of mother and child. Wonderful.