NBS: GDP, CPI Rebasing Will Reflect Current Economic Reality, Boost
Unveiling of indicators scheduled for Friday
James
Emejo in Abuja Statistician-General of the Federation (SGF)/Chief Executive, National
Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Adeyemi Adeniran, yesterday, clarified that the rationale for the proposed rebasing of the country's Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) was to ensure that economic indicators accurately reflected the current
structure
I'm Not Interested in Any Coalition Just to Grab Power in 2027 Elections... Page 10
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At 30th Commemoration Awards, THISDAY
Celebrates Class, Glamour, Grit, Resilience
Sanwo-Olu, Oborevwori, Sani, Eno emerge gov of the year, Wike wins minister’s category Zenith, Access, Providus banks, BoI win big Oshiomhole, Akpoti-Uduaghan, Asuquo, Benson clinch their categories Anyaoku, Agbaje, Aig-Imoukhuede laud Obaigbena for his foresight, doggedness
singer, Diana Ross
PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA
L-R: Chairman/ Editor-in-Chief, THISDAY/Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris; former Commonwealth Secretary-General. Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Winners of Governors of the year, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Governor of Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and Governor of Kaduna, Uba Sani at THISDAY 30th Anniversary/ Arise News at 12, where the four governors won Governor of the Year at Eko Hotel… yesterday
PHOTO: KUNLE OGUNFUYI
ICAN GOVERNING COUNCIL MEMBERS VISIT NDIC MANAGEMENT...
L-R: Member of Governing Council, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria
AVM
Energy Alliance, Rockefeller to Support 23 Power Projects in Nigeria, Tanzania, Others
Back
W’Bank, AfDB’s plan to provide electricity access to 300m Africans
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) and The Rockefeller Foundation have introduced 23 new energy access projects in 11 African countries and across the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
This was disclosed by the organisations during the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, taking place in Tanzania, which seeks to supply power to about 300 million Africans by 2030.
The beneficiary countries include: Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Chad, Tanzania and Cote d'Ivoire. Others are: Liberia, Mozambique, Madagascar, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and Malawi.
The projects are funded through an initial $10 million commitment by the two organisations to the Mission 300 Technical Assistance Facility, which was launched in September 2024 to provide more flexible, short- and medium-term technical assistance.
Besides, the collaboration is in support of the World Bank Group and African Development Bank (AfDB) initiative to provide improved electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030.
“The Rockefeller Foundation created the Mission 300 Accelerator to demonstrate how philanthropy can break through bureaucratic obstacles to jumpstart World Bank and African Development Bank energy projects.
“In just a few short months, we have worked with the GEAPP, Sustainable Energy for All and the banks to advance two dozen projects, putting us on track to bring reliable electricity to 300 million people across Africa at unprecedented speed,” said Andrew Herscowitz, Chief Executive of the Mission 300 Accelerator.
"We are delighted to have made significant strides on a series of impactful projects that GEAPP and The Rockefeller Foundation are developing with strategic partners across Africa. The design and preparation of these initiatives is advancing an Africa-led mission that unlocks power where it is needed most,” he added.
Chief Executive, GEAPP, Woochong Um, stated that by improving local skills, capacity, and implementation efforts, the organisation supports African governments, institutional partners, and businesses with new financial tools.
In addition he stated that they are bankable projects that boost cooperation and innovation and fuel sustainable growth for communities across the continent, with more than 50 per cent of its current portfolio by value invested in Africa.
In addition to GEAPP’s support for the Accelerator’s new investments, the Alliance, which has 63 projects in more than 20 African countries, the group said, is already working intensively with the AfDB and World Bank to design and accelerate electrification efforts in several African markets.
Currently, Africa has an average electrification rate of 50 per cent and is home to approximately 600 million without access to reliable electricity. Co-housed within GEAPP and RF Catalytic Capital (RFCC), The Rockefeller Foundation’s public charity launched in 2020 to pool and align resources.
The Accelerator is designed to swiftly deploy philanthropic capital for TA across sub-Saharan Africa. In
support of African governments’ and the two multilateral development banks’ efforts to accelerate the pace and efficiency of electricity access projects across the continent, the Facility’s first projects are expected to include the listed countries.
In Nigeria, it will be supporting the Distributed Renewable Energy Enhancement Facility (DREEF), which seeks to provide project preparation and sponsor support to pathfinder
DRE developers including interconnected mini-grid projects, mini-grid projects, and standalone solar system as a service business model.
It will also support project preparation for transmission and projects under the AfDB’s Desert to Power programme in the country, where the rate of population growth has outpaced the increase in electrification (World Bank).
The support will also provide
technical and quality review of projects under the Desert to Power programme and provide a project coordination office for all electrification projects.
The GEAPP is an alliance of philanthropy, governments, technology, policy, and financing partners, while The Rockefeller Foundation is a pioneering philanthropy built on collaborative partnerships at the frontiers of science, technology, and innovation.
Oiwoh: Nigeria's Global Leading Light in Digital Payment Innovation
Explains NIBBS role in NIMC multi-purpose card
James Emejo in Abuja
Managing Director/Chief Executive, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), Mr. Premier Oiwoh, said the country was a global leader in digital payment innovation, a feat he said deserved to be celebrated.
Speaking at a media parley and information session on the General NIMC Multi-Purpose Card in Abuja, Oiwoh said the digital innovation delivered by AfriGo Financial Services Limited was one among several other achievements by NIBBS in recent times.
AfriGo card scheme is owned 100 per cent by NIBSS on behalf of commercial banks, while Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) also partners with NIBSS to manage the card company.
Oiwoh told THISDAY on the side-lines of the meeting that other countries, including the United States, were currently trying to play catch up in replicating some of the digital payment innovations in Nigeria delivered by NIMC, in collaboration with Afrigo, which implemented the domestic card scheme.
Oiwoh said Nigeria was the first
Agama: Violators of Capital Markets Rules Risk Sanctions, Prosecution
Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, yesterday, warned that anyone who violated the capital market regulations will be brought to justice.
Speaking to journalists at the official launch of the Norrenberger Asset Management Limited and 2025 Capital Market Outlook, in Abuja, Agama stated that there would be sanctions, "no matter whose ox is gored", as the commission strives to "create an investment climate that will encourage everyone to be part of it".
He said the Investments and Securities Bill (ISB) 2024, which had been passed by the National
Assembly and currently awaiting the president's assent, was everything needed to restore sanity and ensure that operators played by the rules in the capital market. He said SEC was committed to building an investment climate that will encourage trust, confidence, and transparency, stressing that this does not come in a day but through dint of hard work and commitment.
Agama said, "As much as we educate people to know, we also will not tolerate any form of infraction or violation of the rules and regulations that govern those markets.
"We believe strongly that the market has so much to give. It is the salt of the Nigerian economy. And so it is very important to know
that for us to achieve the $1 trillion economy, as promised by President Bola Tinubu, we must do our work at the SEC and with every other agency."
He said there will no longer be issues of arbitrage, adding that SEC will prioritise risk-based supervision in 2025.
Agama said, "We're going to get to every capital market operator, watching them like an eagle, making sure that they're doing just the right thing.
"We want to be sure that Nigerians that are here and abroad, and even foreigners, believe in our market, trust in our market, trust in our system, without necessarily going to ask for anybody. They will see it.
"The taste of the pudding is in its eating. And so for us, we are ever ready, just and tough, to do what is right, to follow what is right, and to act rightly.
"And when we do that, we expect the market also to do so. So, 2025 is going to be one year in history that people will never forget. We want Nigerians to believe in us, as we'll do our best to make them believe in us."
Group Managing Director (GMD)/ Chief Executive, Norrenberger, Mr. Tony Edeh, said the company will introduce innovation and excitement, which were lacking in the asset management space.
Edeh said the company will also revolutionise the market.
country in the world to launch the Instant Payment rail in 2010, adding that other countries in the world, including the U.S., were currently trying to deploy the instant payment.
He pointed out that the multipurpose card was also an innovation in the world among a lot of "firsts and something we should be proud of as Nigerians".
He said the AfriGo card product remained 100 per cent Nigerian, domestically owned, with a lot of its features being first in the world.
The NIBBS boss said, "There's something we often don't talk about.
Nigeria was the first country in the world in 2010 to launch the instant payment rail.
"Right now, the countries in the world, even the U.S., is trying to launch instant payment. So, in 2010, Nigeria went live as the first country in the world. That was not celebrated.
"I also want to specifically mention that with AfriGo, we've also achieved a lot of firsts.
"For instance, the best card in the whole world that gives you instant credits on the PoS machine. It has never happened anywhere in the world. But Nigeria has done it again for the world to follow."
Commenting on the contribution of NIBBS in the new national card scheme, Oiwoh said, "You know, at NIBBS, we have the interoperability arrangement. We have a lot of financial data in terms of payment.
"And so, where we come in here is that since Afrigo is owned by NIBBS 100 per cent, on behalf of all the commercial banks and the central bank, who are the owners of Afrigo.
"We felt it was necessary that as
a Nigerian company that has been there for over 32 years, we are now birthing a card payment rail that will work proudly with NIBBS to provide those rails through Afrigo and other payment schemes."
He added, "For instance, the NQR, which is on the card, is also riding on the NIBBS rail to ensure, because a lot of Nigerians cannot read or write, you don't want to take them out or make them scared.
"Despite the fact that the product itself is so uniquely designed, with your fingerprints, you can authenticate transactions.
"If you don't remember your account number, just present the card, and then you can scan the QR code and do whatever you want to do, by just talking to whoever has scanned your card, and then you can also authenticate that.
"So, those are the areas that NIBBS advises in terms of payment detail and guides to ensure that Nigerians derive the full benefit and are excited. And I'm very proud as a Nigerian to see this day and to see things happening."
AfriGo card scheme is a domestic card scheme that allows for online and offline transactions in Nigeria. NIMC, NIBSS, and CBN work together to deliver the card scheme
While NIMC issues the National Identity Number (NIN) and General Multipurpose Cards (GMCs), the AfriGo card scheme is used in the Government-to-People (G2P) programme, which includes a farmer digital ID registry. The AfriGo card scheme is intended to promote financial inclusion, reduce the demand for foreign exchange, and improve transactional security.
James Emejo in Abuja
(ICAN),
Abubakar Idris Adamu, Managing Director/Chuef Executive, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Bello Hassan, the 60th President of ICAN, Chief Davidson Chizuoke S. Alaribe and ICAN Registrar/Chief Executive, Lanre Olasunkanmi, during the ICAN Governing Council Members’ visit to the NDIC Management in Abuja ... yesterday
PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
SWITZERLAND FEDERAL LAWMAKERS VISIT AKPABIO...
L-R: Senators Carlo Sommarugo; Elizabeth Schneider-Schneiter; Leader of Delegation, Thomas Aeschi, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Ambassador of Switzerland to Nigeria Nicolas Land; Senators Jimoh Ibrahim, Barinada Mpigi, and Cyril Fasuyi, when the EFTA, delegation from Switzerland Federal Assembly to the Senate President... yesterday.
Afe Babalola Drops Suit against Dele Farotimi after Ooni, Others’ Intervention
Afenifere lauds nonagenarian lawyer for heeding monarchs’ plea
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Following the intervention of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, and other prominent traditional rulers, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Afe Babalola (SAN), has dropped his criminal suits against human rights activist, Dele Farotimi.
Babalola disclosed this at a press conference jointly addressed by himself and Ogunwusi on behalf of other prominent Yoruba traditional rulers in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday evening.
The other prominent Yoruba traditional rulers at the conference were the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Adejugbe; Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, Oba Ilori Faboro; the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Alagbado, and the Oloye of Oye-Ekiti, Oba Michael Ademolaju.
The legal luminary said he decided to drop the criminal defamation charges against the Lagos-based activist following the intervention of the Ooni of Ife, and other prominent traditional rulers in the country.
Farotimi had published a book titled: "Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” where he alleged that the elder statesman corrupted the judiciary.
Babalola said he had ignored interventions from different monarchs and personalities within and outside the country, but had to yield to the appeals of the traditional institutions, adding that the statement of an Oba in Yoruba tradition from time immemorial was a command.
He said: "I rejected an oil block and defended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) law and also rejected ministerial nominees twice, wondering why anyone would
just wake up and try to rubbish all he had laboured for. I have nothing to gain from his imprisonment, I am happy each time I give”.
Also addressing journalists, the Ooni of Ife appealed to Babalola to consider the various forces and personalities that had intervened in the matter.
The monarch who led the other prominent Ekiti traditional rulers to ABUAD, praised Babalola after the meeting with him, commending his contribution to the development of the Yoruba race and the world at large.
"We all came together to discuss the matter with him and he gave all the full respect to the Obas and agreed to drop the charges," the monarch said. He added that the Obas can attest to the hard work of Babalola and how he has invested so hard to build his name and that it cannot be tarnished and rubbished by anyone.
"Dele Farotimi is your son. We gave birth to different children in this world and as elders when our children offend us as Yoruba we spank and we also pardon such a child," the Ife monarch stressed.
Meanwhile, the pan-Yoruba sociocultural and socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has commended the legal luminary for demonstrating some ethos of Omoluabi by respecting the wishes of foremost Yoruba kings in respect of the defamation case he filed against Farotimi.
Afenifere, in a statement yesterday by its factional National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi said the coming of the Ile Ife monarch, in company with other prominent Yoruba Obas, however, left Babalola with no choice than to succumb to the appeal by the royal fathers.
Afenifere noted: "By so doing, Aare Afe Babalola has demonstrated, as a
Akpabio: Nigeria to Partner Switzerland on Innovation, Economic Diversification
President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio said yesterday that Nigeria would partner with Switzerland to ignite innovation, economic diversification and job opportunities for future generations.
Akpabio stated this when he received the chairman and members of the Swiss European Free Trade Association (EFTA) who paid him a courtesy call at the National Assembly.
Akpabio said Nigeria, being the largest economy in Africa and a proud member of the African Continental Free Trade Area, was ready to engage with EFTA in ways that would transcend mere trade.
He said: "We envision partnerships that will ignite innovation, diversify our economy and create opportunities for generations to come.
"Switzerland and indeed the European Free Trade Association, has long been a beacon of ingenuity and perseverance.
"Your work in advancing free trade and fostering economic cooperation has set a standard for what nations can achieve when they focus not on their divisions but on their commonalities.
"Our two nations, Nigeria and Switzerland, have already shared moments of profound partnership.
"One such moment was the historic agreement in 2017, when Switzerland returned $321 million
in recovered funds to Nigeria".
Akpabio said that the gesture not only strengthened the bonds of trust between the two countries but also set a global example of accountability and mutual respect.
He said: "It was proof that when nations act with integrity and in the spirit of justice, the world becomes a better place.
"Now, we have before us the opportunity to write the next chapter of our shared history.
"Nigeria, as the largest economy in Africa and a proud member of the African Continental Free Trade Area, stands ready to engage with EFTA in ways that will transcend mere trade".
He further said that Nigeria’s economy was on a transformative journey under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu with bold reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the naira exchange rate.
"These measures are laying the foundation for sustainable growth, with projections indicating a promising GDP growth rate of 4.17 per cent in 2025," he added.
The leader of the delegation and a member of the House of Representatives of Switzerland, Mr. Thomas Aeschi, said that it was a privilege to be in Nigeria.
He said: "A country of immense potential and an indispensable partner for Switzerland in Western Africa".
Aeschi said that EFTA is an
intergovernmental organisation that brings together four member states; Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.
"It is dedicated to promoting free trade and fostering economic cooperation with countries outside the European Union," he said.
He said the delegation was at the national assembly to explore ways to deepen "our economic partnership with Nigeria and to identify new areas of collaboration.”
He added: "As I said, the potential of this country is huge, just looking at its population size. I am convinced that parliamentary diplomacy can help to strengthen ties and re-launch processes for our governments.
"While EFTA, the European Free Trade Association does not yet have a formal trade negotiation process with Nigeria in place, we are here to lay the groundwork for future possibilities.”
true Yoruba son, certain core ethos of being an Omoluabi. He came to defend his reputation and when he was appealed to by our foremost traditional institutions, he dropped the (case). This is highly commendable. “
It said the action of Babalola has further demonstrated the valuable roles that our Obas, who are the custodians of culture and tradition can play in the society, if given the chance.
Sanwo-Olu Applauds Osakwe on Nomination for Cyber Personality Award
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has applauded Dr. Fene Osakwe, Chairman of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Board, for becoming the First African to be nominated for the Cyber Personality of the Year award in the United Kingdom.
The Cyber Security Awards, established in 2014, recognises outstanding individuals, teams, and organisations within the global cybersecurity space. The independent event operates without affiliations to any magazines, organisations, or products, thus allowing judges to base their decisions solely on merit.
It acknowledges an individual who has exhibited exemplary leadership, advocacy, and expertise in the field of cybersecurity. It celebrates those who have established themselves as thought leaders and made substantial contributions to the industry, thereby enhancing its visibility and fostering the development of others.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “I congratulate Dr Fene Osakwe, whose exploits have shown the great potential of our youths in the tech space. We
in Lagos are proud of him and will continue to encourage our youths to become the best so that Lagos will be known as the home of experts in the tech and innovation space.” Osakwe is the sole African nominee in the category, competing alongside distinguished leaders from 11 other countries. His leadership, ambition, and innovative strategies in cybersecurity over the past decade have earned him international acclaim. He has authored several influential articles on platforms such as Forbes and has been a leading figure in cybersecurity research and publications. Earlier in 2024, Osakwe was invited to join the Global Advisory Board for Penetration Testing by EC-Council, recognized as the world's largest certification body for information security professionals. He also became a member of the Forbes Technology Council in 2021.
Among others, as a keynote speaker at major cybersecurity conferences in both Europe and Africa in 2024, his presentations have received commendations for their insight and educational value.
Minister Explains How Nigeria Can Derive Maximum Benefits from Patents
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Professor Geoffrey Nnaji, told patent right owners that the county could only derive maximum benefits from patents when they translate into products or services for economic growth.
Nnaji spoke on Monday in Abuja during the official presentation of patent certificates to researchers and inventors, facilitated by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP).
That was as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) disclosed that five corps members serving in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
had received a total cash grant of N3.2 million from Activate Success International Foundation (ASIF).
While congratulating the recipients, the minister said Nigeria will only benefit maximally from patents when they translated to products or services that will propel economic growth.
He stated, "Let me also congratulate the recipients of these certificates facilitated by NOTAP. I equally wish to emphasise that this is just the first step in reaping the economic benefit of your inventions. The nation can only derive maximum benefit from your efforts if your patents translate into products/ services for economic growth."
Nnaji said since 2010 NOTAP had
secured 340 patents for indigenous inventors and researchers.
He stated, "I am reliably informed that from 2010 to date, NOTAP has been able to secure about 340 patent certificates for inventors and researchers of tertiary and research institutes and individuals.
"Intellectual property in the form of technological innovation has today become the basis of international power structure. The speedy industrialisation of the country and its economic growth depend largely on the efforts of our researchers.”
Director-General of NOTAP, Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi, in her welcome address, explained why the agency intervened in helping
Nigerian investors and researchers to secure patents.
Amadiobi said, "We recognise that patents are vital tools in the journey of innovation. They protect the rights of inventors, encourage further creativity, and foster a culture of technology-driven solutions.
“However, we also understand that innovation does not end with securing a patent. It is merely the first step in a larger process that requires sustained support, collaboration, and commercialisation.
"Our intervention in this space is driven by a clear purpose; to reduce the financial burden on academicians and researchers so they can focus on the essential tasks of research and innovation.
Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
YOU'RE WELCOME ON BOARD...
L-R: Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Aare Abisoye Fagade, when the latter visited the former as part of his familiarisation visit following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu... yesterday
NEITI: Why We Approached EFCC to Recover N66bn Owed FG by Oil Firms
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has revealed that it is working with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to recover the sum of N66 billion owed the federal government by industry stakeholders in the oil sector.
The agency added that it was also collaborating with the anti-graft agency to recover another $6 billion owed to the federal government by the industry players.
Executive Secretary of the agency, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja while defending the 2025 budget before the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Upstream.
He revealed that the agency was handed a budget envelope of N6.5 billion for the 2025 financial year, saying this is made up of N2.220 billion for personnel, N1.722 billion for overhead and N2.575 billion for capital projects.
The executive secretary told the committee that from its 2020 and 2021 report alone, over $3.7 billion was recovered into government coffers as outstanding liabilities from companies operating in the oil and gas sector in the country.
The committee, however, queried the agency for repeating items budgeted for in 2024, while also including items that are not justifiable in the current economic situation in the country.
A member of the committee, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara queried why the agency
would budget N32 million for meals in the 2025 budget when Nigerians are going through hard times saying “there is no way you can spend that amount of money for meals in a year."
She stated: “Most of our MDAs should ensure that what they are bringing as budget proposal must
actually tally with the line item and the purpose why you want to use such funds. Let us not just see budget defence as the money is there and we should share it. So, let us see how to get our own share.
Also contributing, Ademorin Kuye, noted that in preparing the
annual budget agencies of government should be mindful of the economic situation in the country, adding that the impression of Nigerians is that the National Assembly is a rubber stamp and will approve anything that is brought to them by government agencies.
Kuye said: “We are all aware of the situation in the country and we must be circumspect and be prudent in our expenditure because the general feeling out there is that the National Assembly is just a rubber stamp and whatever they bring is what we approve and that is not so.”
Court Asked to Restrain Tinubu, NASS from Sacking CCT Boss, Danladi Umar
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Abuja division of the Federal High Court has been asked to restrain President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and others from proceeding further with the planned removal of chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Mr. Danladi Umar.
The restraining order sought by the Community Rescue Initiative, Toro Concerned Citizens & Relief Foundation, and Barrister Nasiru Bala is pending the hearing and determination of the main suit challenging the move to sack Umar
UN: Nearly Eight
from CCT.
In an ex-parte application filed by their team of lawyers, led by Mahmoud M. Maidoki, the applicants asked the court to restrain the respondents from using the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to stop officials of CCT, including its chairman, from performing their official functions.
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria; Attorney-General of the Federation; President of the Senate; Senate; House of Representatives Speaker; House of Representatives; National Assembly Clerk; National
Judicial Council (NJC); Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC); Dr. Mainasara Umar Kogo; and Abdullahi Usman Bello are first to 11th respondents, respectively, in the suit.
Besides, the applicants sought another order of interim injunction restraining NJC and FJSC from taking any step to swear in Kogo as chairman of CCT pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.
The applicants also sought an order restraining Kogo from parading himself or doing anything as the chairman of CCT or otherwise
Million People in
Nigeria Need Humanitarian Assistance
The United Nations Population Fund has disclosed that nearly eight million people in Nigeria, including 1.8 million women of reproductive age, need humanitarian assistance due to conflict, food insecurity, lack of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services.
Others are lack of education, and protection concerns, which disproportionately affect women and girls in crisis settings, increasing their vulnerability to gender-based violence.
In its Nigeria Situation Report #5, the UN agency stated that recent arrest and detention of minors in Nigeria for alleged involvement in protests raised serious concerns
about their heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) while in custody, adding that the high number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, particularly girls, increases their vulnerability to exploitation, abuse, and GBV, especially in conflict zones.
"Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs) continued attacks, resulting in deaths, injuries, and displacement. Borno State was particularly affected by violence, with bomb explosions and killings reported.
"Millions of Nigerians were internally displaced due to conflict and natural disasters. The ongoing conflict in the Northeast, particularly in Borno State, has resulted in repeated displacement," the report said.
To support women and girls in vulnerable situations, UNFPA said it had implemented targeted interventions in the following areas, with 17,781 individuals receiving SRH services through UNFPAsupported facilities, including the clinical management of rape (CMR), antenatal and postnatal care, assisted births by skilled personnel, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and family planning.
Similarly, 13,636 individuals accessed protection and GBV services, including case management, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), temporary safe shelter, psychological first aid (PFA), security and legal support, and referrals to specialized services.
Another 3,694 women and adolescent girls participated in skills acquisition sessions, while 2,381 were specically trained in tailoring, cap making, bag making, room décor, and hand fan making.
UNFPA said it reached 19,929 community members with key SRH and GBV messages, including on family planning, through outreach and awareness campaigns led by frontline workers.
On December 3, 2024, UNFPA commemorated the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, themed “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” focusing on disability inclusion and advocacy for accessible SRH, GBV, education, and basic services.
frustrating, obstructing or hindering the smooth administration as well as discharging the functions of the CCT along with its officials, including Umar, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.
In addition, the applicants asked the court to restrain the defendants from recognising or in any manner whatsoever dealing with Kogo as the chairman of CCT pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.
The ex-parte application was predicated on 14 grounds among which were that the substantive suit revolved around the purported removal of the chairman of the CCT being substantively occupied by Justice Danladi Yakubu Umar.
Other grounds are that, “The 1st Defendant has earlier on announced, through separate press releases, the appointment of the 10th and 11th Defendants as Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal which office is being substantively occupied by Justice Danladi Yakubu Umar.
“The plaintiffs have earlier on filed an ex-parte application along with the Motion on Notice counterpart on November 28, 2024 wherein they prayed for, among other reliefs, an order of this Honourable Court maintaining status-quo between the parties as at November 20, 2024.”
They claimed that while the matter was pending, the first defendant, through the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), issued another letter with Ref. No.: SGF. 19/S.24/C.1/T/177 dated January 6, 2025 purportedly disengaging Umar as CCT Chairman, with effect from November 26, 2024 following the
resolution of the fourth and sixth defendants.
They further claimed that, “The circumstances of this application as it relates to the substantive suit and the attendant extreme urgency it carries is such that it calls for the invocation of the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court along with the powers, authority and force therein contained to hear and grant this application in the overall interest of justice.
“There is serious need to grant the application pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice in the interest of justice,” parts of the originating summons.”
The three plaintiffs prayed the court to restrain Clerk of the National Assembly from transmitting to President Bola Tinubu the concurrent resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives, which purportedly removed Umar as CCT boss. They also prayed the court to stop the president from giving effect to the resolution of the two chambers of the National Assembly, on the grounds that clear provisions of the law, especially the 1999 Constitution, were not followed in the purported removal of the CCT boss.
In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/ CS/1796/2024, the plaintiffs asked the court to determine, “Whether by virtue of the provisions of Sections 1(1) and (3) , 6(5), 153 (1) (e) & (i) of the 1999 as well as Paragraph 13 (a) (vii) and (b) of the Third Schedule thereof, the purported removal of Umar by the 4th Defendant is illegal, void, unconstitutional and of no effect whatsoever same having been made pursuant to the provisions of Section 157 (1) of the 1999 Constitution or any other law for that matter.”
Amidst the controversy trailing the hike in telecom’s tariff, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has raised its voice in justification of the increase, saying it is needed to enable the telecom firms to remain competitive and deliver the best quality of services to businesses that can leverage technology to save some costs.
The LCCI justified the hike yesterday in a press statement signed by its director general, Dr. Chinyere Almona, which stated that “the current operating environment in the telecommunications sector has
become too expensive for the telcos to operate profitably.”
According to Almona, “factors such as rising energy costs, the increasing price of network equipment, inflation, and currency depreciation have placed a heavy financial burden on the operators” and constrained them to resort to increasing tariffs to mitigate the rising cost.
She said that another factor of consideration by most stakeholders is that Nigerian citizens and businesses deserve better services from the operators and more robust regulation from the government.
“In our quest for a $1 trillion economy, we need more investments
leaving everyone with nostalgia.
THISDAY’s 30th commemoration awards held yesterday at the Convention Centre of the Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, with all the markers of glamour, class and excellence, to honour institutions and individuals for their resilience and grit in their respective fields.
Themed “When the Going Gets Tough…the Tough Gets Rewarded’, the award night played host to some of the best of the Nigerian society, including serving and former governors, captains of industries, technocrats and politicians.
Apart from the different award categories, which cut across all sectors and interests, the highpoint of the night was the world class performance by 80 years old American singer, Diana Ross, who set the hall ablaze with some of her evergreen songs.
Although an earlier performance by one of Nigeria’s finest acts, Chinedu Okoli, with the stage name, Flavour, had left the room charged with several of his songs, Ross came to shut down the hall,
Anchored by Arise TV’s Ojinika Okpe and Akinremi, and assisted an A-list stand-up comedian, Bovi Ugboma, the event was effectively coordinated by the Editor-in-Chief and Chairman, THISDAY Media Group/ Arise TV Networks, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, who eventually set the ball rolling for the night.
Celebrated for his resilience, innovation, and transformative impact on Nigerian journalism, the Obaigbena shared reflections on lessons from mentors like Arthur Mbanefo and described his determination to navigate challenges, including during the Abacha years, as key to THISDAY’s success.
The Awards
As tough as all the categories were, winners were announced regardless.
One of those tough categories was Governor of the Year category, which Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Uba Sani (Kaduna) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) clinched respectively.
The Young Global Leaders honoured were Folake Akindele, founder of the fashion brand Tiffany
in critical infrastructure to drive the much-needed digital revolution for growth and development.
“A robust digital infrastructure will support innovation across all sectors of the Nigerian economy.
“Looking beyond the hike, the operators and regulators need to settle down into delivering quality services to drive operational cost efficiency for businesses and support the automation of government services,” LCCI said.
It argued that the emerging innovative landscape in food production, surveillance technology for security, citizens’ social engagement and the exploits of artificial intelligence will all
Amber; Jennifer Adighije, Managing Director and CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC); Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa; and Senator Asuqo Ekpeyong from Cross River State.
Others included Hon Ibrahim Bello, a member of the House of Representatives; Neya Uzor Kalu, Chairman and Publisher of The Sun Newspapers; Olori Atuwatse III, the Queen of Warri Kingdom; Nnamdi Ekeh, CEO Konga; Abdullahi Haske, founder AA&A Investment Group; Khalil Halle, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO NASENI.
Titans of the year went to John Tanimola Obasi, CEO of SystemSpec for advancing payment systems; Jim Ovia, founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank, for Banking beyond Nigeria; Mike Adenuga, Chairman Conoil Plc, for ramping up oil production; and Aigboje AIG-Imoukhuede of Access Bank for banking beyond Nigeria.
Other winners were Mohammed Indimi, Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources for ramping up oil production; Segun Agbaje, CEO Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), for driving shareholder value; and Demola Bero, founder and CEO of
depend on a robust digital ecosystem that is comparable with advanced economies.
It said: “Businesses look to our digital infrastructure to support their operations and cost optimisation.
“To remain competitive and continue to provide quality service, telecom operators must overcome significant challenges. Nigeria’s digital economy must be empowered to catalyse economic growth and the driver of innovation and possibilities.
“We urge continuous engagement with critical stakeholders to create a win-win scenario.”
The LCCI also noted that a significant item for inclusion in
First E&P for creating a national oil major.
The Bank of the Year award, and the Global Bank of the Year Award, which went to Zenith Bank and Access Bank created some buzz, while the Banker of the Year went to Walter Akpani of Providus Bank. Brand of the Year award was bagged by MTN.
Dangote Petroleum emerged Company of the Year while Investor of the Year went to Shell, just as UBA Foundation won the Philanthropist of the Year. Transaction of the Year was won by Bank of Industry (BOI) while House Member of the Year went to Babajimi Benson. Also, the Senator of the Year went to both Comrade Adams Oshiomole and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The CEO of the Year was won by both Leo Smart of Zinox and Gbenga Komolafe of NUPRC. The Minister of the Year, however, went to Nyesom Wike of the FCT.
During the night, honours were also bestowed on several notable figures.
Lifetime Achievers included Mustafa Chike-Obi, Chairman of Fidelity Bank; Atedo Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank;
the rebasing of Nigeria’s GDP is the activities in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector, which recorded resilient growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and has also led other sectors in the post-pandemic recovery and stability.
“This reality should then attract more government attention and funding for the digital and creative industry,” it said.
The chamber also reiterated its call for reducing human interface in the conduct of regulatory services like licensing of products, obtaining necessary permits, issuance of certifications, and port operations.
Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, founder of Alpine Group; and Maiden Ibru, Chair and Publisher of the Guardian Newspaper.
Mustafa Chike-Obi, Chairman of Fidelity Bank, was recognised for his exceptional leadership and contributions to banking and finance. Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, was honored for his pioneering role in establishing one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions.
Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, founder of the Alpine Group, was celebrated for his achievements in business and commerce.
Another lifetimer, Eniola Fadayomi, former Lagos State Attorney General, reflected on her encounter with a young Nduka Obaigbena and commended his entrepreneurial spirit, calling THISDAY’s success a testament to hard work and opportunity.
Anyaoku, Agbaje, Aig-Imoukhuede Laud Obaigbena for His Foresight, Resilience
Speaking at the awards, statesman and former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, commended Obaigbena, for his courage, resilience, and visionary leadership.
Anyaoku, who presented the
Obi: I'm Not Interested in Any Coalition
Just to Grab Power in 2027 Elections
Tinubu’s govt correcting many defects in economy, says Shettima’s aide We must ensure democracy delivers inclusive opportunities, ex-Ghanaian VP urges Political parties don't have members but barons, warlords, Jibril asserts
Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023, Peter Obi, has said he was not interested in any coalition with the aim of grabbing power ahead of the 2027 elections.
There had been meetings and political realignment among former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso and Obi, fueling speculations about a possible coalition to wrest power from President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
Obi spoke yesterday in Abuja on the sidelines of a national conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster for Democracy (WfD), Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) and National Peace Committee.
He said it was a known fact that as of today, Nigeria was not working, and that the country bred poverty everyday with her people suffering.
Asked to respond to the proposed coalition, he said: “For me, what is important is let's discuss Nigeria. Whether we are going to do coalition...let's talk about the future of the country. But often, we abandon the country and what we need to do, talking about power grab.
“I'm not interested in any coalition for the purpose of taking power. It is about discussing Nigeria. How do we care about securing the Nigerians? How do we care about the common
person in Nigeria? How do we care about our children being in school? That is the most important thing for now.”
On the issue of monetisation of politics, Obi said there was a need to put an end to it.
His words: “That's what we need to remove, because what you're doing is that you're encouraging stealing of public money. Because if I steal it and use it to win an election, then I get all the power and everything, including immunity not to be prosecuted. So we must stop it. That is what is driving the stealing.”
Speaking, Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, said the government of President Bola Tinubu was involved in correcting many defects in the economy and approaches.
According to him, the conference was holding at a time when democracy as a system of government was being challenged the world over to reveal its essence and its claim to represent the only system, which was founded on the non-negotiable right of all people to choose who governs them freely and all leaders accountable.
He pointed out that Nigeria's position regarding the fate of democracy in Africa, particularly in the neighbourhood, was to respect the sovereignty of peoples and encourage a return to democracy, because citizens in this country desire that.
“Our failure to prioritise the learning of history means that older generations, who appreciate the superiority of democratic systems over others, have the honorable task for creating a democratic system that speaks for itself in terms of impact only on the
lives of citizens as a huge responsibility.
“Nigerian democracy must mean a lot more than asking Nigerians to line up every four years to elect leaders. It must mean, in practical terms, that leaders commit to the demands of elected leadership in very transparent manners.
“That mandates giving to them to govern, make themselves to people, to the interests of the people, custodians of their assets and protectors of their interests. The best leaders are people who exercise power only to promote the interests of their people.”
On his part, the immediate past VicePresident of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, said there was a need to ensure that democracy delivers
inclusive opportunities.
He noted that the productive energies of young people needed to be harnessed properly to empower them to play positive roles in democratic sustenance.
He stressed that one of the most important determinants of a flourishing democracy was the quality of institutions — institutions capable of guaranteeing rights, including property rights, and checking wanton abuse of power.
Bawumia said these institutions included the Independent Election Management bodies, the Judiciary, the Ombudsman, the Police, other law enforcement agencies, and many others.
He pointed out that unfortunately, whilst the culture of peacefully choosing leaders was being entrenched, these institutions were becoming weak and endangered.
“We are simply creating mere edifices and structures to reward cronies, creating avenues for reluctant democrats to get a back door route to autocracy and misgovernance.
“Second, there is a growing phenomenon in our democracy whereby people deliberately run down these independent and accountability institutions purely on emotive reasons, especially when these institutions decide, as they should, to uphold the law in the interest of the masses and in strict fidelity to the law.”
awards to the Titans of the Year recipients, acknowledged THISDAY's place as Nigeria's leading newspaper.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, praised Obaigbena's foresight, recounting their early relationship as banker and client in 1991.
Aig-Imoukhuede shared how Obaigbena had predicted his rise to the top echelons of the banking industry – a prophecy that eventually came true.
In similar breath, Segun Agbaje, Group CEO of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, expressed gratitude to Obaigbena for believing in him, Aig-Imoukhuede, and the late Herbert Wigwe, when they were appointed Executive Directors of their respective banks while still in their 30s.
“He wrote a front page article with pictures of three young men, saying these three young men would redefine banking in Nigeria,” he said.
Diana Ross: I Feel Deeply Connected to Africa
Legendary American singer, Diana Ross, while thrilling guests with her songs, expressed her deep connection to Africa during her over 40-minute performance at the awards show. Midway through her performance, the singer, dressed in a long, glittering red ensemble, paused to share her feelings of honour and gratitude, declaring her connection to the continent.
“As I stand here, (not) just as a guest, but as someone who feels deeply connected to Africa and what it represents. So, ladies and gentlemen, again, I want to thank you for inviting me to be here with you.” Widely known as the ‘Queen of Motown Records,’ this marked Ross' second appearance at the THISDAY Awards, her first being at the 12th edition.
The 80-year-old music icon opened her set with the iconic hit: ‘I’m Coming Out’ from her 1980 self-titled album ‘Diana,’ setting the tone for an electrifying medley as the high-heeled audience swayed to a lineup of classics, including ‘Upside Down,’ ‘I Will Survive,’ ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,’ and ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love.’
She also delighted the crowd with hits from her time with The Supremes, performing ‘Stop in the Name of Love’ and ‘You Can't Hurry Love.’
GDP, CPI REBASING WILL REFLECT CURRENT ECONOMIC REALITY, BOOST POLICYMAKING
ensuring that government, policymakers, civil society organisations (CSOs), and other users access accurate and most recent numbers, to enable them track the impact of their policies and programmes, as well as their implications on the citizens.
Speaking in Abuja at the opening of a sensitisation workshop on the GDP and CPI rebasing, which was organised by BudgiT for CSOs, Adeniran said contrary to speculations, the exercise was not meant to suit the "expectations of anyone or entity, but simply to measure accurately in line with the global standards and practice".
The SGF said the rebasing was the responsibility of NBS as the country's official producer of data. He pointed out that rebasing GDP and CPI allowed the country to align with the transformations, providing a more precise and
relevant picture of Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Adeniran said while the two economic indicators and their computation procedures remained highly technical, they affected the daily livelihoods of citizens across the country, particularly the most vulnerable.
He stated that the process remained crucial for informed policymaking, strategic planning, and effective governance, hence, one exercise that NBS was conducting with importance and professionalism.
He said, "If Nigeria is to make the desired progress and development, it is imperative that NBS, as the official producer of data, plays its role adequately in providing timely, accurate, and reliable statistics to inform all users, be it users in the public sector, or in the private or third sector.
"This will enable them to design, plan, and implement policies and programmes that will lead to the attainment of national objectives for the benefit of Nigerians.
"Our mind-set in undertaking both critical assignments is in tandem with the United Nations fundamental principles of official statistics, particularly Principle 3, which deals with accountability and transparency."
Adeniran said the NBS' consultation with critical stakeholders had further demonstrated that the processes were open, collaborative, and rigorous, "making sure that, as much as possible, we leave no stone unturned in our bid to measure and report accurately, the size of the economy and the level of price changes".
The NBS boss explained, "Today’s workshop exemplifies our commitment to this openness, collaboration,
and stakeholder engagement.
"We recognise that the credibility and utility of our statistics are enhanced through the active participation of diverse stakeholders, including private sector operators, academia, economic experts and analysts, media executives, civil society organisations, and government."
Adeniran stressed that the rebasing was a vital exercise that ensured the economic indicators remained current and accurate reflections of the economic realities on the ground.
He said, "As economies evolve, new industries emerge, and consumption patterns shift, it becomes imperative to update our statistical measures to capture these changes.
"Through this open process, we are further committing to maintaining an open dialogue with all stakeholders including CSOs."
Chiemelie Ezeobi, Nume Ekeghe, Mary Nnah, Vanessa Obioha, Peter Ugwu, Sunday Ehigiator and Ayodeji Ake
LCCI DG, Dr. Chinyere Almona
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Assessing Useni’s Contribution to Nigeria’s Political Landscape
In this piece, seriki Adinoyi chronicles Lt General Jeremiah Useni’s military and political journeys, highlighting his successes and pitfalls, and the impact he made in shaping Nigeria’s modern history.
Since news of his passing became public knowledge last Thursday night, the media space has been filled with encomium and tributes for the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni (rtd) who died a few days to his 82nd birthday. He was said to have succumbed to an undisclosed protracted illness.
Speaking on his demise, President Bola Tinubu said Useni demonstrated courage and dedication throughout his military career and inspired many young officers to prioritise national interests above personal gain. He added that the deceased also made some difference in politics as deputy national chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, on his part, described the passing of the three-star General as a monumental loss of a powerhouse insider and institutional library of the country.
Atiku, while paying glowing tribute to Useni who was also former Minister of Transport, said he was a fine soldier, astute public administrator, people’s oriented politician, and a kindhearted peace lover and conflict mediator.
From Useni’s home state of Plateau, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and one of his predecessors, Senator Jonah Jang also eulogised the deceased politician.
While Mutfwang described his passing as a “tremendous loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation”, Jang asserted that Useni was a true patriot that will be missed sorely.
In a statement signed by his Director of Press, Gyang Bere, the Governor highlighted General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service, which left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape, adding that Useni’s tireless efforts to promote peace and security, especially in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, will forever be remembered.
He recounted the illustrious career of the late General, who served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities, including as Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, and Minister of the FCT.
“After retiring from the military, General Useni transitioned into politics, where he continued his service to the nation. He served as Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)”, the Governor recalled.
He commended General Useni’s life of selfless service, noting his profound contributions to the military, politics, and his community. Mutfwang emphasized that the General’s legacy of compassion, kindness, generosity, and dedication to the well-being of others will endure in the lives of those he impacted.
Also, Jang described his loss as a significant void, not only for his family and friends, but also for the entire nation.
Jang said that throughout his career in both the military and politics, he had the privilege of collaborating with Useni on various occasions, noting that his exemplary leadership, profound wisdom, and steadfast commitment to the advancement of Nigeria were truly remarkable, even as his selfless service and unwavering dedication to Nigeria set a standard for all to aspire to.
He said, “General Useni’s illustrious career spanned several decades, during which he held numerous pivotal roles, including Lieutenant General in the Nigerian Army, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Minister of Transportation, and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District. His contributions to our nation’s progress and development are invaluable, and his
legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
“The news of his passing leaves us with a profound sense of loss, and our thoughts are with his family during this challenging time.
“As we reflect on the life of this remarkable General, let us also take the opportunity to celebrate his numerous achievements and lasting contributions”, Jang admonished.
The incumbent Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike likened his death to the falling of a big Iroko tree in the forest of Nigeria.
Wike, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, said the retired Army General would be missed by all, describing him as a leader Nigerians will never forget for helping to develop the FCT when he served as the Minister between 1993 and 1998.
Wike said, “From joining the Army at the age of 14, to becoming the Military Governor of the defunct Bendel State, Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigeria Army, FCT Minister and Senator for
the Plateau South of Plateau State, Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni can be said to be among those Nigerians who saw it all and lived a life of service to the country.
“He was a jolly good fellow, fondly called ‘Jerry Boy,’ who took service to the people as his number one priority. Nigerians, especially the Tarok people of Plateau State will never forget the late General for epitomising great virtues.”
Similarly, the Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, also expressed deep sadness over the demise of Useni describing him as a committed patriot, a seasoned military officer, and an exemplary statesman who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
For Senator David Mark, “General Useni was a gallant soldier and a pragmatic politician who served the nation with honour and dignity.”
Mark further stated that Useni was a successful military officer and a vibrant politician who gave his all for the good of the nation. His selfless services, bravery, and leadership will forever be remembered and honoured.”
Apart from being a former military governor of old Bendel State under General Muhammadu Buhari in 1984, Mark recalled
The retired General had hoped he will try his luck for the umpteenth time in 2023, but his age and the internal crises in his Peoples Democratic Party stood tall against his aspiration. Although Useni navigated his way through the military and political landscapes, he made more successes in the military with remarkable setbacks in politics. He will be remembered as a leader who played visible roles in shaping the country’s history.
that Useni was one of the leaders who laid the foundation for subsequent developments of FCT. The former Senate President prayed that Useni’s legacies continue to inspire future generations asking God in His infinite mercy, to grant the deceased an eternal rest.
Arewa Consultative Forum, on its part, described Useni as “one of the architects of modern Nigeria”, saying as the Chairman of its BoT, Useni “was a progressive and inclusive leader.”
The Forum described Useni as a quintessential soldier, officer and gentleman, war hero; military administrator, and nationalist.
But who is this Lieutenant Gentleman General? Jerry Boy as he was fondly called was a towering figure in Nigeria’s military history, whose influence spanned decades of service to the nation. Useni’s career was marked by numerous high-profile roles, including his tenure as the Minister for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, during the Sani Abacha military regime. Indeed pundits had thought that with the demise of General Abacha, Useni was going to take over as the next Head of State, but as fate would have it, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, an equally fine officer became the Head of State.
He attended local schools before enrolling in the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria in 1962, a prestigious military institution known for training future military officers. His decision to join the military at a young age marked the beginning of a career that would define his life for decades.
Useni first rose to national prominence in 1984 when he was appointed Military Governor of the defunct Bendel State, which was later split into Edo and Delta States. His leadership in that role made him a household name. His time as FCT Minister during the Abacha years, coupled with his later work as Nigeria’s Minister for Transport and Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, cemented his place as a significant player in the country’s political and military circles.
Beyond his military service, Useni also veered into politics, a journey one would say was marred by several hitches and disappointments. With resilience however, Useni was able to grab a slot to represent his people as the Senator representing Plateau South at a time.
But before luck shone on him, the retired General served as the Deputy National Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and later founded the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) that presented former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa as its presidential candidate in 2007.
Bafarawa performed abysmally because the party was marked by internal conflicts, including the controversial remarks Useni made about the death of environmental activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa.
Useni was defeated after a bid for the Plateau South Senatorial seat under the DPP. The crises in his party forced him to jump ship to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) where he eventually clinched the party’s ticked for the Senate in 2015. He triumphed and was elected Senator for Plateau South.
Useni’s political journey however took another downward turn in 2018 when he ran for governor of Plateau State on the PDP platform. He was roundly defeated by then incumbent Simon Lalong. His effort to challenge the results in court, alleging discrepancies in Lalong’s election credentials yielded zero and ended his hope for the seat.
The retired General had hoped he will try his luck for the umpteenth time in 2023, but his age and the internal crises in his Peoples Democratic Party stood tall against his aspiration.
Although Useni navigated his way through the military and political landscapes, he made more successes in the military with remarkable setbacks in politics. He will be remembered as a leader who played visible roles in shaping the country’s history.
Useni
LAWYER
President, United States of america, donald J. Trump
Quotable
‘EFCC needs to start afresh….There is a need for an organisation that tackles corruption and economic and financial crimes, especially in a country like Nigeria where corruption is endemic, especially in public life…I don’t think EFCC is the answer.’ - Professor Fidelis Oditah, KC, SAN
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Falana, Falz’s N1bn Suit Against VDM Adjourned to Feb 19 Page V
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The Institutionalisation of Gross Misconduct
Happy 30th birthday This Day, and hearty congratulations to our trail blazing Chairman and Publisher, the Duke, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, CON, and indeed, to all of us, past and present, who have kept This Day at the No. 1 spot of Newspaper Journalism.
When I look back at Nigeria from the beginning of the Fourth Republic (1999), I cannot but think that the Politicians may have done worse to Nigeria than good. And, while I do not miss the military era, because I cherish fundamental rights and the rule of law (see Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)(the Constitution)), it is coming at a great expense. It is impossible not to see how the Politicians have contributed in no small measure, to the degradation of the country and her institutions. Aside from this, they are not particularly concerned about the welfare of the common man, and over the years, the living conditions of the people has declined to an all time low. This seems to amount to gross misconduct, on the part of successive Governments populated by Politicians.
Paucity of Medical Doctors
Last week, I saw two forwards on social media relating to the Health Sector. One stated that Chief Medical Directors of Teaching Hospitals and Federal Medical Centres had raised an alarm that, soon, there will be no Doctors left in our tertiary hospitals, as they will have all ‘checked out’ like ’Andrew’ of the 1980s (now aka ‘Japa’) to greener pastures (where they are better appreciated than here), as they have been doing for some time now. The forward compared the $1,000 or less monthly salary of Nigerian Medical Consultants, to that of their US counterparts of $8,125 - $17,166, and UK counterparts of £7,805 - £10,523. An unskilled worker in the US, earns more than double the salary of a Medical Consultant in Nigeria! Why would any right thinking Doctor want to stay in Nigeria, working with mostly outdated equipment in harsh conditions, earning a subsistence salary, while illiterates in the National Assembly are paid so handsomely? I recently watched a video clip of a sitting in the House of Representatives, where one of the South West members who was trying to make a submission was unable to string a sentence together in English. Even the prompting and assistance from the Speaker was of no use, as he was even unable to follow and repeat what the Speaker dictated to him! Are our laws enacted in Yoruba? I saw a similar video clip when Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila was Speaker of the House of Representatives, and he also had to prompt and assist a member from Kazaure, Jigawa State, who was unable to express himself properly in English. Though Section 55 of the Constitution allows the business of the National Assembly to be conducted in Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba when adequate arrangements are made, the days I’m referring to weren’t any of those days; and, I couldn’t but wonder if these members are articulate enough to understand issues, let alone the laws they purport to enact. Yet, a House of Representatives Member’s salary and allowances earn him/her multiple times more than a Doctor who is a well educated life saver and healer, or a Judge! In most cases, the basic monthly salary of a Magistrate who must be a Lawyer of at least 5 years standing, is about $100 - what a toilet cleaner in USA would earn in one 8-hour working day! So, educated Nigerian professionals are ready to Japa, to take up menial jobs that pay much better. There is a huge problem with the system of remuneration in Nigeria; a holistic review is urgently required, if not, it will not only be all medical personnel that will Japa, we won’t have any young professionals left in Nigeria.
While the Tinubu Administration did the right thing by appointing an international acclaimed Physician and medical expert, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate as the Minister of Health, let’s be truthful and realistic, how much meaningful impact can Prof Pate really make, without the required resources and workforce? He’s a Doctor, not a Magician! I saw another social media forward with a statement attributed to Prof Pate, saying that Ministry of Health only got 15% of the capital allowance budgeted for it in 2024. How much is Prof Pate expected to achieve, with a poorly paid, frustrated and dwindling workforce, coupled with an underfunded health sector? Is this not a tasty recipe for failure? No wonder, the President recently approved funds for top retired Generals to go for medical tourism abroad! If the President had faith in our medical facilities here, would this be so? Is this not an indication that, not enough is being done to improve the Nigerian health sector? Is it not a matter of concern that people die needlessly of the most mundane things in our hospitals, because of lack of adequate facilities, man power, etc? Does this not constitute gross misconduct on the part of Government?
Reciprocity of Gross Misconduct
In a democratic setting, gross misconduct goes
onikepo
onIkePo BrAIThwAITe
onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com
"Does failing to provide adequate security, decent living conditions and medical facilities for Nigerians, contrary to Sections 14(2)(b) & 17(3)(d) of the Constitution, not constitute gross misconduct on the part of Government? It appears so. Unfortunately or unfairly....Section 6(6)(c) of the Constitution....allows Government to escape culpability for most of its misconduct....."
both ways - not just the employer/employee scenario where the employer can discipline or sack the employee for misconduct, but People (Electorate)/Government scenario too, where Government too can be held accountable for serious misdeeds. Does failing to provide adequate security, decent living conditions and medical facilities for Nigerians, contrary to Sections 14(2)(b) & 17(3)(d) of the Constitution, not constitute gross misconduct on the part of Government? It appears so. Unfortunately or unfairly, for one, Section 6(6)(c) of the Constitution appears to have deprived the people of this right to demand for accountability, let alone the right to mete out punishment for gross misconduct on the part of Government. Instead, it allows Government to escape culpability for most of its misconduct, because Chapter II of the Constitution which contains most of the basic obligations that Government has to the people, particularly the primary purpose of government, that is, Section 14(2)(b), the security and welfare of people, is not directly justiceable. In numerous cases, Government agencies have breached the fundamental rights of citizens with gusto and aplomb, yet, they pay no price for their gross misconduct. Policemen have even become infamous for their popular saying: “I go kill you, and nothing go happen”. And, indeed, many of them have got away it. I’m sure Nigerians will never forget the case of the murder of the 'Apo 6' in Abuja, for example. Not only did the Senior Police Officer who was allegedly the cause of the unfortunate incident get away with it, he was said to have been promoted and al, his back salaries and allowances paid. Is murder in the line of duty not gross misconduct, an abuse of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, a breach of Section 33(1) of the Constitution and also a heinous criminal offence?
What is the Definition of Gross Misconduct?
In Borishade v NBN 2007 1 NWLR
could constitute gross misconduct, His Lordship, Niki Tobi JSC stated could be, refusal to perform constitutional functions; abuse of power; sexual harassment; drunkenness; stealing of government funds and certificate forgery. By this definition, does the non-provision of adequate security for Nigerians by successive Governments, which has led to thousands of killings and maiming, not amount to gross misconduct on the part of Government? What about Government’s failure to harness the resources of the country to promote national prosperity, but, on the contrary led Nigeria to become the poverty capital of the world in 2018; is this not deplorable? See Section 16(1)(a) of the Constitution. Regrettably, another common complaint of Nigerians, is that the other way to punish Government and public officials for gross misconduct, is by voting them out during elections; but, because of election rigging and manipulation, this cannot be done effectively in Nigeria. In UK, when the British people were tired of the Conservatives and their policies, they simply voted in Labour at the last general election. Ditto for the Americans who voted out the Democrats for Republican Trump.
Part 1015 Page 217 at 241 per Monica Dongban-Mensem, JCA (now PCA), the Court of Appeal noted that “there has been no clear definition under the law of this nation, as to what constitutes a misconduct”. That in the case of employer/ employee, “the Supreme Court gave a definition of “gross misconduct” inter alia, as conduct of a grave and weighty character, as to undermine the confidence which should exist between the employee and employer”.
In Inakoju & Ors v Adeleke & Ors (2007) LPELR-1510 (SC) per Dahiru Musdapher, JSC the statutory definition of gross misconduct was given as “a grave violation or breach of the provisions of this Constitution, or a misconduct of such a nature as amounts to, in the opinion in the House of Assembly, gross misconduct”. Also see Sections 143(11) & 188 (11) of the Constitution. The Apex Court per Niki Tobi, JSC went on to define “gross” in this context as “atrocious, colossal, deplorable, disgusting, dreadful, enormous, gigantic, grave, heinous, outrageous, odious and shocking”
We see that, in Inakoju & Ors v Adeleke & Ors (Supra), the first part of the definition of gross misconduct is specific - a violation of the Constitution. His Lordship, Niki Tobi, JSC however, stated that not every breach of the Constitution can lead to the removal of a Governor or Deputy, only a grave one, and His Lordship went on to expatiate on what he considered to be a grave violation or breach of the Constitution, such as abuse of Code of Conduct for Public Officers; breach of Chapter IV of the Constitution; interference with LGC funds and stealing of the funds for personal gain or the comfort of the State Government; and instigation of military rule and military government. What, in the House of Assembly’s opinion
The other day, we saw a social media news report which alleged that the National Assembly had requested for a bribe of almost half a billion Naira from the Federal Universities, to pass their budget! Aside from the fact that this alleged request is not only an abuse of power that runs foul of Section 15(5) of the Constitution which prohibits corruption, it is a criminal offence and a breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers (CCPO) (see Paragraphs 6(1), 9 & 12 of the CCPO Part I Fifth Schedule to the Constitution). Such request amounts to gross misconduct, as members making such requests could end up at the Code of Conduct Bureau and be ordered to vacate their seats if found culpable, without prejudice to criminal prosecution in a court of competent jurisdiction. See the case of Aroyame v Governor of Edo State & Anor (2022) LPELR-57819(SC) per Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC (now CJN)(on abuse of power); Odugbemi v State (2023) LPELR-60331(SC) per Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju JSC (on official corruption). But, it will probably be a cold day in hell, before those that make such odious requests are outed for gross misconduct. It is mostly the common man, whose children attend Nigerian tertiary institutions. Most Politicians send their children abroad for their studies; Nigerians are ‘thrilled’ with their graduation photos regularly. Meanwhile, the Federal Universities are seriously underfunded, so much so that, ASUU goes on strike regularly to protest about this and their poor conditions of service. I once watched a television interview of the President of ASUU, Professor Victor Osodeke, who stated that students in the science departments have been reduced to using kerosene stoves for experiments, instead of Bunsen burners! Should any decent person with a conscience, who is vaguely interested in the education of Nigerian Youths, seek to deprive Universities of their already insufficient funds? Instead of punishing public officials for this type of clear ‘gross misconduct’, the Politicians bastardise and trivialise the meaning of the term which already seems to be rather wide, so that it now appears that gross misconduct can simply be interpreted to mean standing up when you are asked to sit down, or anybody that isn’t in the good books of the powers that be, for instance, the Edo LGC Chairmen accused of gross misconduct by Governor Okpebholo because they failed to make their accounts available to him for inspection, a request which the law doesn’t allow him to make to an independent, autonomous level of government. Pray tell, how could the refusal to honour an unlawful request be heinous, deplorable or shocking? See APC & Ors v Enugu SIEC & Ors (2021) LPELR-55337 (SC) per John Inyang Okoro, JSC; AGF v AG Abia & 35 Ors (2024) LPELR-62576 (SC) per Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC; or Deputy Governors whose impeachment/ removal were orchestrated by their Principals who were unhappy with them, for one reason or the other.
Conclusion
It is the height of hypocrisy that Government, Public Officials, Politicians and our so-called leaders who are mostly guilty of ‘gross misconduct’, have found ways to wangle their way out of accountability and responsibility for their misdeeds, while they manipulate the definition of the term to the most ridiculous levels, in order to use it as a tool to oppress and witch-hunt those who they may not favour, out of office. The consequences of some of the acts and omissions of successive Governments and public officials, fit like a glove with the definition of gross misconduct, as elucidated in Inakoju & Ors v Adeleke & Ors (Supra); yet, no price is paid. This negative trajectory, in turn, erodes the trust of the people, encourages corruption, and hinders the growth of the nation.
edo State Governor, Monday okpebholo
Propriety of Filing Joint Application for Enforcement of Fundamental Rights
Facts The 1st to 6th Respondent, as Applicants, commenced an action under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009 against the 7th to 9th Respondent, the Appellant, and the 10th Respondent, at the High Court of Rivers State. The Appellant was sued as the 4th Respondent, at the trial court.
The 1st to 6th Respondent sought a declaration of breach of their rights to personal liberty and freedom from inhuman/degrading treatment; and an order for, inter alia, the release of the 2nd Respondent and damages against the Appellant and the 7th to 10th Respondent jointly and severally, in the sum of N250 million.
The case of the 1st to 6th Respondent on the application was that 7th Respondent, a Lebanese, was the Project Manager of the 8th Respondent, who was a registered contractor of the Appellant handling all the civil engineering works at the Obagi Base Camp, while the 9th Respondent was an officer of the Nigerian Army detailed by the 10th Respondent to provide private security to the 7th Respondent. On 21st January, 2012, soldiers led by the 9th Respondent, in the course of their providing security for the 7th Respondent, beat up staff of a company called Pontecelli Nigeria Ltd for overtaking their military convoy. The 1st Respondent got involved in resolving the incident in his capacity as the General Time-Keeper of Pontecelli Nigeria Ltd and Task Force Chairman of Saipem, Pontecelli and Decidom. It was their case that there was an exchange of harsh words with racist slur between the 7th Respondent and the 1st Respondent in the course of the resolution of the incident, and that the matter was eventually settled amicably. However, on 29th January, 2012, the 1st to 6th Respondent, while in a Toyota Hiace Bus, were accosted and halted near the premises of the 8th Respondent by the 9th Respondent, accompanied by two military escorts who were also involved in the earlier incident. They were ordered to alight from their vehicle. The 9th Respondent recognised the 1st Respondent, and berated him for the altercation he had with the 7th Respondent during the earlier incident. Subsequently, the soldiers took them and their vehicle into the premises of the 8th Respondent, where the 9th Respondent told them that the 7th Respondent had given instructions that the 1st Respondent should be dealt with whenever he was found. The 1st to 6th Respondent alleged that the 9th Respondent and his military escorts beat them severely, shot at them, and the 2nd and 3rd Respondent sustained bullet wounds in their stomach and hand respectively. Thereafter, the 9th Respondent and his co-soldiers impounded their motor vehicle, and detained the 2nd Respondent.
The Appellant filed a counter-affidavit in which it denied the entire case of the 1st to 6th Respondent, maintaining that it did not in any way infringe or breach their fundamental rights. The Appellant deposed clearly in its counter-affidavit, that it did not own the Obagi Base Camp where the 1st Respondent’s bus was allegedly being detained, as other companies including the 8th Respondent, also made use of the Obagi Base Camp. The Appellant contended that the 1st to 6th Respondent did not disclose a reasonable cause of action against it, and prayed that the claim against it be dismissed. By a further affidavit, the 1st to 6th Respondent contended that a principal-agent relationship should be inferred between the Appellant and the 8th Respondent, from the fact that the 8th Respondent was a registered contractor of the Appellant who should be vicariously held responsible for the actions of the 7th and 8th Respondent. The 7th and 8th Respondent filed responses to the case of the 1st to 6th Respondent, who also filed a further affidavit in reply to that counter-affidavit. The 9th and 10th Respondent did not file any response, and did not attend the trial court to contest the case.
The trial court heard the matter on the merits, and entered judgement in favour of the 1st to 6th Respondent, awarding them damages in the sum of N230 Million. The appeal to the Court of Appeal, was unsuccessful. Dissatisfied, the Appellant appealed to the Supreme Court. The 10th Respondent filed a Preliminary Objection, seeking an order dismissing or striking out the name of the 10th Respondent from the appeal for not being a juristic person; and an order setting aside all the proceedings and decisions of the trial court as well as those of the Court of Appeal in relation to the 10th Respondent.
Issues for Determination
The Supreme Court considered the following issues for determination of the appeal:
i. Whether the Court of Appeal was wrong when it affirmed the decision of the trial Court as the 1st to 6th Respondent’s action was incompetent ab initio as a result of a lack of jurisdiction?
ii. Whether the learned Justices of the Court of Appeal were wrong when they affirmed the decision of the trial court which held the Appellant liable when the 1st to 6th Respondent failed to discharge the onus of proof under the Evidence Act?
iii. Whether the learned Justices were wrong when they affirmed the award of damages in the sum of N230 Million?
iv. Whether the learned Justices were wrong when they
In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja
On Friday, the 14th day of June, 2024
Before their lordships
Tijjani abubakar
Jummai Hannatu Sankey
Moore aseimo abraham adumein
Habeeb adewale Olumuyiwa abiru
Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC/CV/26/2015
Between
TOTaL eXPLORaTION & PROduCTION NIGeRIa LTd aPPeLLaNT And
1. MR aZuBuIKe OKWu
2. MR NNaMdI FeLIX OKWu
3. MR GOOdLuCK aLeTe
4. MR CHIKeRe OPuTa
5. MR KuTI JOHN
6. MR CHISa KuTI
7. MR SuRay aLBadRI
8. daRCeT INTeRNaTIONaL LIMITed
9. MR KeNNeTH NJOKu
10. THe G.O.C. NIGeRIa aRMy, BORI CaMP ReSPONdeNTS (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Habeeb Adewale Olumuyiwa Abiru, JSC)
held that the Appellant did not deny that the 8th to 10th Respondent were its agents?
Arguments
Arguing the first issue, Counsel for the Appellant submitted that in fundamental rights matters, jurisdictional issues are resolved by reference to only the application of the Applicant, and without reference to the counter-affidavit and other subsequent processes. Counsel noted that the six Applicants, who sought to enforce their individual fundamental rights in one action, had different causes of action, no common grievance, sought peculiar reliefs and that the main relief was not for the enforcement of fundamental rights, but for tortuous claims. He argued that the action as commenced was not in accordance with the law. Relying on the provisions of Section 46(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Order 1 Rule 2 and Order 2 Rules 2 and 3 of the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009, he posited that the words used therein - ‘any person’, ‘applicant’ and ‘application’ were in the singular form. Thus, a literal interpretation of these provisions show that
“A court is at liberty to allow more than one Applicant to be joined together in the same application to enforce their rights, once a common cause of action can be established…. It is only wrong and incompetent for different individuals to join in one action to enforce different causes of action, under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009”
these averments in its counter-affidavit, and that they constituted sufficient evidence upon which the lower courts found the Appellant vicariously liable for the actions of the 7th to 10th Respondent. Regarding the third issue, Counsel for the Appellants urged the court to hold that based on the facts of the case, the lower courts were wrong when they affirmed the award of damages in the sum of N230 Million. The 1st to 6th Respondent argued contrariwise, urging the Apex Court to uphold the award of damages made by the lower courts.
Court’s Judgement and Rationale On the Preliminary Objection, the Supreme Court regarded the objection as legally absurd and procedurally irregular. The court held, inter alia, that the 10th Respondent having not appealed against and contested its juristic personality in the name and title in which it was sued and judgement entered against it at the lower courts, cannot be heard in the appeal of the Appellant against those judgements to contest its juristic personality in that name and title. Its failure to appeal against those judgements, was a concession of the fact that it was properly sued in its right name and designation. Deciding the first issue, Their Lordships held that it is matters of substantive jurisdiction that can be raised at any time and which if resolved against a party that renders the entire proceedings a nullity, not matters of procedural irregularity. Matters of procedural irregularity must be raised by a party at the earliest opportunity, before taking any other step in the matter, otherwise, he will be deemed to have waived the irregularity and will be foreclosed from raising it again – ODU’A INVESTMENTS CO. v TALABI (1997) 10 NWLR (PT. 523) 1; HABIBU v STATE (2023) LPELR- 60351SC.
Further, there is no provision in the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009 that prevents more than one Applicant from bringing a joint action for the enforcement of fundamental human rights. A court is at liberty to allow more than one Applicant to be joined together in the same application to enforce their rights, once a common cause of action can be established. Once it can be shown from the affidavit filed in support of an application that the issues submitted by the Applicants for the determination of a court are on the same subject-matter and on the same grounds, a joint application for the enforcement of fundamental rights should be allowed – ABDULRAHEEM v ODULEYE (2019) LPELR-48892SC. The same should apply where the interests of the Applicants in the cause or matter are the same, the grievance common, and the reliefs sought in the action are by their features beneficial to all the Applicants. It is only wrong and incompetent for different individuals to join in one action to enforce different causes of action, under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009.
On the contention that the complaints of the 1st to 6th Respondent relate to tortious acts and not a breach of their fundamental rights, the Apex Court held that their complaints before the trial court came within the definition of the words “torture or inhuman or degrading treatment” as used in Section 34(a) of the Constitution, and were thus, properly brought under the Fundamental Rights Procedure Rules. The first issue was consequently resolved against the Appellant.
fundamental right applications must be filed by individual applicants, and that one fundamental right application cannot be filed by joint applicants. He relied on OPARA v SPDC (2015) 4 NWLR (PT. 1479) 307, amongst others.
In response, Counsel for the 1st to 6th Respondent argued that this issue was being raised by the Appellant for the first time on appeal, and the Appellant did so without first seeking and obtaining the leave of the Supreme Court. Furthermore, fundamental rights are of a special nature and inalienable. The 2009 Fundamental Rules expanded the categories of people that can file applications for protection of fundamental rights beyond the particular individual concerned to other persons, groups and bodies. He referred to judicial authorities on the point that a joint application by multiple applicants for enforcement of fundamental rights was proper. Finally, Counsel submitted that tortuous acts of assault, battery and detinue, have been held to constitute breach of the fundamental rights in MOGAJI v BOARD OF CUSTOMS AND Excise (1982) 3 NCLR 552.
On issues two and four, it was submitted for the Appellant that the affidavit filed at the trial court by the 1st to 6th Respondent, was devoid of any deposition showing the existence of a master/ servant, employer/employee or principal/agent relationship between the Appellant and the 7th to 10th Respondent. Counsel, thus, submitted that the findings of the trial court, affirmed by the lower court that the Appellant was vicariously liable, was not supported by any evidence on record. Responding, Counsel for the Respondents referred to the averment in paragraph 3 of the affidavit in support of their claims wherein they deposed that the 7th Respondent, a Lebanese National, was the Project Manager of the 8th Respondent who was a registered contractor of the Appellant handling all its civil works at the Obagi Base Camp. Counsel stated that the Appellant did not directly or indirectly deny
On the second and fourth issues which the court took together, the Supreme Court noted that, from the records and the affidavit evidence of the 1st to 6th Respondent, nowhere was it stated that the military officers of the 10th Respondent led by the 9th Respondent had any connection with the Appellant, and it was not part of their case that the military officers were posted at the request of the Appellant and/or to protect the oil installations of the Appellant. The court held that assuming that the 1st to 6th Respondent did lead evidence of facts and circumstances to establish the existence of such a principal/agent relationship, the law further stipulates that a principal will only be vicariously liable for the acts of the agent, where they were done in fulfilment of the terms and conditions of the agency and this was not shown by the 1st to 6th Respondent. Hence, the findings of the lower courts on issues two and four against the Appellant were adjudged to be perverse, and set aside by the Supreme Court.
On the third issue relating to the award of damages made against the Appellant by the trial court and affirmed by the lower court, their Lordships noted that the judgement of the lower court on the affirmation of the award of damages against the Appellant was consequent upon the findings made by the trial court on the vicarious liability of the Appellant, along with the 7th and 8th Respondent, for the actions of the military officers of the 10th Respondent led by the 9th Respondent. Upon its earlier finding that the lower courts erred in holding the Appellant vicariously liable, the award of damages made against the Appellant was set aside.
Appeal Allowed.
Representation
M.A. Essien, SAN with O.U. Ulasi for the Appellant. N. Meshach Nwoloko for the 1st to 6th Respondent. F.T. Uwa for the 9th Respondent. Isah Shuaibu for the 10th Respondent. 7th and 8th Respondent not represented by counsel.
Honourable Habeeb Adewale Olumuyiwa Abiru, JSC
Hague Institute Appoints First African CEO
Stories by Steve Aya
A Nigerian Lawyer, Udo Jude Ilo, has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law.
Mr Ilo, a Nigerian national, brings with him an impressive track record of contributions to the fields of security governance, democracy promotion, and social innovation. Over the past two decades, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering systemic change, and empowering communities through creative programming. His tenure as the Interim Executive Director of the Centre for Civilians in Conflict, showcased his ability to enhance an organisation’s resilience and global profile, highlighting his dedication, strategic vision, and capacity to drive meaningful impact on a global scale.
As Mr Ilo assumes this new role at HiiL, he is expected to
bring his passion for justice, democracy, and innovation to the forefront. HiiL, an organisation dedicated to ensuring access to justice for all through cutting-edge solutions, is set to benefit from Mr Ilo’s leadership, as he paves the way
for new approaches and bold strategies aimed at transforming the global justice landscape.
President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, congratulated Mr Ilo on his appointment and described it as a “well-deserved
recognition of his unwavering dedication to systemic changes and empowering communities through creative programming”.
In his statement, Mazi Osigwe said: “Congratulations on this remarkable achievement.
We wish you success as you embark on this exciting journey, and we remain committed to supporting your endeavours in advancing justice, equity, and human dignity.”
As Mr Ilo embarks on this exciting journey, the international community looks forward to witnessing the positive impact he will undoubtedly make in advancing justice, equity, and human dignity, through his leadership at The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law.
Falana, Falz’s N1bn Suit Against VDM Adjourned to Feb 19
Hearing on the N1 billion defamation suit filed by human rights Lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN and his son Folarin, popularly known as Falz, against Martins Otse alias VeryDarkMan (VDM) has been adjourned to February 19, 2025. The court fixed the date to hear a preliminary objection filed by VDM, through his Lawyer, Marvin Omorogbe, challenging the suit’s competence and the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case on Thursday in Ikeja after it adjourned.
The Falanas had dragged
VDM before the court and demanded N500m each as damages, over a video he posted on his social media platforms alleging that they collected N10m from Idris Okuneye, aka Bobrisky, to pervert the course of justice.
The Judge had, on the last adjourned date, October 14, 2024, ordered the social media influencer to bring down the defamatory video and comments he allegedly made against the senior Lawyer and his son. Justice Matthias Dawodu had also restrained the self-acclaimed
social media police from further releasing, publishing, or circulating any defamatory videos and comments against the senior Lawyer and his son on all his online social media handles and pages, pending the hearing of a suit filed by the duo. The Judge also ordered that all the processes in the matter be served on VDM through his Lawyer, Deji Adeyanju.
At the resumed hearing of the matter last Thursday, the defence Counsel, Marvin Omorogbe, informed the court that he was served with a
Lagos Judiciary Goes Fully Digital With E-Affidavits
The Lagos State Judiciary has started a series of digital reforms aimed at modernising its legal processes, introducing e-affidavits, Certified True Copy (CTC) services, and electronic forms and letters. These initiatives are designed to complement existing systems like e-filing and e-probate, which have already been in place, to speed up
Othe processing of letters of administration and grant of probate.
A circular titled “LagosCoMiS, now live as Lagos State Judiciary introduces e-affidavit, CTC and Forms & Letters”, has announced the rollout of these digital services. The circular also provides details, on how users can create e-affidavits
n Saturday, January 25, 2025, the university of Lagos Graduating Class of 1980 hosted their Member, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-ekun, GCON, to a dinner Party, to celebrate her recent appointment as the Chief Justice of Nigeria
and access other virtual platforms.
The Judiciary has emphasised that these technological innovations will help resolve disputes more efficiently, ensuring fairness and reducing costs. With seamless integration of court processes, administration, and structures, the system aims to improve access to justice for
and E-Filing
all parties involved. Moreover, automated case processing, payment systems, and communication tools have been implemented through this online court system, enabling timely access to case-related information for all parties.
These advancements, signal a significant step towards a more efficient and accessible legal system in Lagos.
copy of the counter-affidavit filed by the Claimants against his preliminary objection on Wednesday, and he needed time to respond to it. The Claimants’ Lawyer, Omotade Omotunbosun, did not object to the application for adjournment.
Following the develop-ment, Justice Dawodu adjourned the matter to February 19, 2025, for hearing.
In the application, VDM argued through his Lawyer, that by the provisions of Order 4 Rule 1(4) of the High Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, the Court does not have the territorial jurisdiction to entertain this suit. Omorogbe also argued that the Defendant is domiciled and carries on business in Abuja, outside the jurisdiction of the court, and that the alleged defamatory publication was made in Abuja. He also claimed that the Claimants deliberately filed the suit before the court as a way of forum shopping, in the hope that they would get a favourable judgement.
In their suit, the father and son averred that the Defendant knew all his comments were inaccurate and not verified, yet he proceeded to publish the
same to injure their reputation recklessly. They also stated that the alleged defamatory publication is still trending on the Defendant’s online handles and pages, adding that the injury to their reputation continues as long as the publication remains online.
The Applicant alleged that, in the unverified audio recording of a one-sided narrative by the alleged Bobrisky, the said Bobrisky never said that the Claimant/Applicant herein collected N10m from him, yet, the Defendant recklessly stated that Femi Falana collected N10 million from Bobrisky.
The Falanas are seeking the following reliefs: “a declaration that the publication of the Defendant made on September 24, 2024, on his Instagram handle, @verydarkblackman, wherein he specifically targeted the Claimant, is libellous, slanderous, derogatory, scandalous and defamatory.
“The sum of N500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Naira Only) for defamation of character contained in the Defendant’s video publication of September 24, 2024, on his Instagram handle @ verydarkblackman.
Udo Jude Ilo
Martins Otse, alias VeryDarkMan (VDM)
Lagos State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba
Husband of the Celebrant, Mr Akin Kekere-Ekun, OFR (left) and CJN Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON
L-R (backing): Hon. Wale Abiru, JSC; Hon. Tijjani Abubakar, JSC; Hon. Uwani Aba Aji, JSC L-R (facing): Hon. Stephen Adah, JSC; Hon. Chidiebere Uwa, JSC; Hon. Lawal Garba, JSC and Hon. John Inyang Okoro, JSC
L-R (front): Prof Taiwo Osipitan,SAN; Cyril Ogbekene; Chief Judge, Delta State, Hon. Justice Tessy Diai; Hon. Justice Amaize (Rtd); Chief Judge, Cross River State, Hon. Akon Ikpeme; Chief Chris Uche, SAN L-R (behind): Ibiai Ani; CJ Kazeem Alogba and Titi Akinlawon, SAN
CJN Kekere-Ekun (left) and Ignatius Chibututu
Trump 2.0: Expectations, Anxieties, Apprehensions and Admonitions
Last Monday, January 20, 2024 Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States of America. as was expected, the 78-year old hit the ground running, with a staccato of decrees and fear inspiring executive Orders which will most likely alter democratic ethos of the world’s most powerful democracy. What is it about President Trump and his new administration’s policies that perceptibly instil fear and apprehension? Professor Sebastine Hon, SAN; chukwuemeka Eze; Dr Emeka Ejikonye; Ed Malik and Dr Akpo Mudiaga odje take a holistic look at Trump, his pronouncements and their far-reaching global implications, with specific reference to Nigeria
Implications of President Donald Trump’s Second Coming on Nigeria
Prof Sebastine Hon, SAN USA-Nigeria Relations in Perspective
USA-Nigeria relations date back to 1960, when Nigeria got her independence. As of today, according to the US Department of State through its Bureau of African Affairs, the US is the largest foreign investor in Nigeria, particularly in the petroleum/mining and wholesale trade sectors. The Bureau further states that, in 2022, the two-way trade in goods between the US and Nigeria totalled over $8.1 billion.
At his inauguration address, however, President Donald Trump did not mention Africa, or even a single African nation. He mentioned Panama, China, Mexico and BRICS and clearly
concentrated on ‘making America great’.
No African Head of State was invited to the inauguration, even though Pentecostal evangelists like Pastor W.F Kumuyi and Evangelist Nathaniel Bassey were invited, and they delivered their messages at the ceremonies.
In this piece, I shall examine Mr. Trump’s second coming as it affects my motherland, Nigeria, judging especially from his early policies and even his body
“As of today, according to the US Department of State through its Bureau of African Affairs, the US is the largest foreign investor in Nigeria, particularly in the petroleum/mining and wholesale trade sectors….in 2022, the two-way trade in goods between the US and Nigeria totalled over $8.1 billion”
language.
President Trump’s National Energy Emergency and Nigeria
In his first day in office, President Trump declared a national energy emergency, creating an environment for higher US output in the oil sector. Promptly, the international oil market responded, by the consequential decline in oil prices. By January 21, 2025, the price of the Brent crude fell from over $81 to $79.29 per barrel, representing about an 11% fall or drop. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) also stated clearly on that same January 21, that oil prices are expected to decline both in 2025 and 2026.
Trump did not stop at that, he announced in his speech delivered a few days ago at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that he would demand the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, to lower oil prices. This statement led to a further dip in the price of Brent to $77.95 per barrel by Friday, January 24, 2025 at about 0044GMT.
Fall in global oil prices will, definitely, have a grave impact on an already battered Nigerian economy, where earnings from this black gold have, for decades, constituted the mainstay of the economy.
In November, 2024, the NNPC proudly announced that, with the price of the Brent standing at $81 per barrel, Nigeria would be producing 1.8mbpd; hence, would rake in $145.8 million daily, which would translate to $4.37 billion in 30 days. Experts had forecasted that, at an average exchange
rate of N1,600/$, Nigeria was to earn N6.99 trillion monthly from crude oil revenues alone. With the free fall of oil prices to $77.95 per barrel, with the possibility of a further rapid drop, the badly struggling Nigerian economy has become further imperilled. If the trend continues, the increased monthly allocations to the Federal, State and Municipal tiers of Government witnessed since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office will face an irretrievable reversal, with grave economic implications.
President Trump, BRICS and USA-Nigeria relationship
Speculations, suppressed and expressed, were very rife that Donald Trump, upon assuming office as US President, would surely take precipitate and decisive actions against the BRICS’ bloc. This came to pass, as he warned, while presenting his galaxy of Presidential Executive Orders, that the US under him would impose 100% tariffs on the trade between those countries and the USA. Mr Trump did not mince words in overruling his predecessor, Joe Biden, on the issue. Nigeria seems to have placed itself on a collision course with the US, no thanks to the announcement by the Nigerian Government that by January 17, 2025, a few days to Trump’s inauguration, the country had become a partner to the bloc. Even though President Trump was silent on countries that are only partnering BRICS, like Nigeria, the ‘audacity’ of Nigeria to be a strategic partner of the bloc, especially on the eve of his assumption as the 47th President of America, may spark a subtle or even direct diplomatic ‘revenge’ by Mr
The Inauguration of the 47th President of United States of America, Donald J. Trump
Trump 2.0: expectations, Anxieties, Apprehensions and Admonitions
Trump’s administration against Nigeria. The growing Nigeria-China relationship points almost irresistibly to this looming, call it, burgeoning, diplomatic spat.
President Trump, the WHO and Nigeria
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the USA has, for decades, remained the greatest financial contributor to its activities.
A short WHO online publication, which was updated on December 23, 2024, states that the US was appreciated for a decades-long “strong partnership,” which the organisation classified as “a crucial role in supporting WHO, to protect and improve the health of Americans and people around the world”.
However, one of President Trump’s first actions in office for a second term was to sign Executive Order 21, which has started pulling the USA out of the WHO. A similar action was taken by him in 2020, which was, however, quickly reversed by President Joe Biden upon assumption of office.
The impact of the WHO boycott by President Trump will be felt, judging especially from the outlined programmes of the organisation. In September, 2024, WHO launched what it termed the "Investment Round.” The very first of its kind, this global body is seeking to rake in an additional $7 billion from its existing and new donors, in order to effectively function till 2028. By December, 2024, about $3.8 billion came in through pledges, in support of the "Investment Round.” However, the Joe Biden administration did not announce any pledge till Donald Trump took over. Of this amount, African countries pledged a total of $45 million only.
Experience has even shown that, pledges made to international bodies are hardly redeemed. Be that as it may, the US withdrawal from WHO, definitely, has far-reaching implications for Africa in general, and Nigeria in particular.
President Trump’s Executive Order 15 and its Effects on Nigerians in the USA
According to the American Community Survey (ACS), as at 2022, the number of Nigerian immigrants in the USA, together with their families, reached 712,294 – up from a modest 25,000 in 1980. This figure jumped to 760,079 in 2023, out of which 476,008 were born in Nigeria. This migrant population is most likely to have quadrupled, as the number of Nigerian ‘japaing’ to the USA, the UK and Canada skyrocketed from 35.3% in 2017 to 80.1% in 2024, according to the Afrobarometer Survey. Unfortunately, by Presidential Executive Order 15, President Trump seeks to end any person automatically acquiring US citizenship if born in the US. For sure, this Order is unconstitutional, since the Fourteenth Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees, in unmistaken terms, this citizenship right. For, it is settled law that a Presidential Executive Order which is in conflict with an express provision of the Constitution is null and void, both in the USA and in Nigeria. See the US decisions of City and County of San Francisco v Trump, 897 F. 3d 1225 (9th Cir. 2018); National Labor Relations Board v Noel Canning, et al, Appeal No. 12-1281, unreported, decided on 26th June, 2014; Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. et al v Sawyer, 343 U.S. (1952) and the Nigerian Supreme Court decision of A-G Abia State v A-G Federation (2022) LPELR-57010(SC), whereat I participated as an amicus curiae, upon invitation by the Supreme Court. However, Donald Trump is such a strong character, that he may most likely, at best, obey this Fourteenth Amendment right in breach thereof. The meat of the matter is that the hundreds of thousands of Nigerians living in the US, just like other foreign nationals, will face serious social issues, if Executive Order 15 is either implemented the usual way, or the US Fourteenth Amendment citizenship right by birth provision is obeyed in breach. Many Nigerians in the US facing the non-registration of their children as US citizens may either be forced to relocate from that country or face serious socio-economic existential quagmires, which would adversely affect their incomes. Their ability to contribute their quotas to the global sums remitted to Nigeria by its diaspora population, will dwindle. This sounds simple and dismissible; but, it is very real and impactful. Verifiable statistics will lend credence to this.
In 2024, the World Bank reported that Nigerians abroad remitted $20 billion to Nigeria, a figure that was slightly lower than the $21 billion remitted in 2022. In particular, the africa report, in its online publication of November 14, 2024, quoted Nigerian authorities as courting Nigerians in the USA to help, through diaspora remittances, in solving Nigeria’s worsening dollar shortage. We can now easily see, the impending direct impact of Trump’s Executive Order 15 on Nigeria.
Miscellany
Donald Trump, in his second coming, has upped the ante against the Houthi rebels, by redesigning them as a foreign terrorist organisation. The activities of this group have had damaging effects on transportation of goods by sea, affecting the global economy, Nigeria inclusive. Even though the Houthis have scaled down their nefarious activities, limiting it to ships with affiliations to Israel only, Trump’s disposition to the Jewish nation will escalate the crisis, if the Houthis attack Israeli-affiliated ships.
Donald Trump has also warned Russia, to stop its “senseless” war with Ukraine. This has buried, at least momentarily, the trumpeted Trump-Putin ‘friendship’ in the build up to the US Presidential polls. Without any doubt, the Russia-Ukraine war has had global impact on goods and services, especially wheat. Nigeria is a heavy importer of wheat, whose spiralling prices have seriously impacted on the cost of bread, which is the commonest household consumable in the country. Trump’s grandstanding against a rustic and an inelastic Putin qua Russia will, without any shred of doubt, worsen matters for Nigeria.
On a more positive side, however, Trump’s credentials as a person who has a serious eye on the security of lives in Nigeria is a high one, which should be leveraged upon by the Tinubu administration. He once told President Muhammadu Buhari to go home and ensure that Christians in Nigeria are living in safety, and also to quench the insurgency in the country. If the US truly stands with Nigeria, insecurity will be a thing of the past, for the greater benefit of Nigerians.
“Unfortunately, by Presidential Executive Order 15, President Trump seeks to end any person automatically acquiring US citizenship if born in the US. For sure, this Order is unconstitutional, since the Fourteenth Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees, in unmistaken terms, this citizenship right”
Conclusion Trump’s second coming, is a welcome development to me personally. He will, for sure, play the global ombudsman and head boy, to stem the near-total collapse of this world. It is, however, a mixed grill to Nigeria. Nigeria should buckle up and adjust its local and international policies, to get the best out of America in the next four years, or be worse off. Pandering to China, as President Tinubu appears to be doing, may worsen matters. The experience of some East African countries with China, is enough eye opener. My humble but, very firm word in time!
Professor Sebastine T. Hon, SAN, FCIArb., DSSRS, Constitutional Lawyer, Author, Abuja
Trump's Second Coming, Far-reaching Implications for Nigeria and the World Chukwuemeka Eze
Background
Trump on his X (formerly known as Twitter) in a bid to clarify himself, wrote: "The language used by me at the DACA [Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals] meeting was tough, but this was not the language used ....".
Withdrawal from WHO and the Paris Climate Change Agreement
The withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organisation (WHO) is expected to have a huge negative consequence on Africa, due to America's humongous financial contributions to the WHO. Bloomberg has signified its intention to fill the funding gap, created by America's exit. A reduction in funding for the WHO, will lead to the reduction in the aid being received by African countries. It will jeopardise the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goal on Primary Health Care by 2030.
Donald Trump's second term or second coming or Trump 2.0, which commenced on 20th January, 2025, has been described as a watershed by some analysts. No doubt, he is a man of history. He remains the second US President in history, and the only one since 1893, to achieve two non-consecutive terms in power. Trump is both the 45th and 47th President of the USA. His current term is shaking the table, domestically and internationally. His "make America great again" mantra has been widely received with mixed feelings.
It has been widely reported by the media, that Trump has signed troves of executive orders without any of them directly relating to Nigeria or Africa. Notwithstanding, Trump's aides, with the benefit of hindsight, have predicted what his foreign policy towards Africa will look like. Before foraging into expert analysis of what Africa should expect, one should not be in a hurry to forget Trump's description of African countries as "shithole countries" on January 10, 2018, during his first term. This derogatory statement took a a life of its own, on the global stage. Many Africans tagged it as racist and disdainful.
Trump had announced US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in 2019, although it took effect in 2020. The Biden administration reversed the withdrawal. Trump 2.0 has resumed the withdrawal. The Paris Agreement, in seeking to strengthen the global response to climate change, reaffirms the goal of limiting global temperature increase to well below 2 degrees Celsius, while pursuing efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees. African countries will bear the brunt of the latest American withdrawal because it will impact negatively on the issues of climate change, which will not be favourable for Africa.
AGOA
The African Growth and Opportunity Act, an American legislation, allows African countries to export certain products to the USA on preferential terms. Embedded in the legislation, is a clause that beneficiaries of AGOA will not take measures that will impinge on the security interest of the US. South Africa, a key beneficiary of AGOA, is seen by the US as leaning towards China and Russia, and leading the charge against Israel - America's most trusted ally - for genocide against Palestine at the International Criminal Court. AGOA will expire in 2025, and it is not predictable whether Trump will allow for its extension, going by his reliance on tariffs to shore up revenue and reduce domestic taxes.
OPEC
Trump has called on the 12-member OPEC countries, to reduce the price of oil. If the call is heeded, the economies of the African members of OPEC (Libya, Algeria, Nigeria, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Congo) will be affected adversely. For Nigeria, our 2025 budget deficit will increase, with obvious negative consequences.
President, United States of America, Donald J. Trump
Trump 2.0: expectations, Anxieties, Apprehensions and Admonitions
BRICS
BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is an international organisation, established in 2009, that seeks to create a new economic order outside the economic influence of the Bretton Woods institutions. It has expanded its membership to include Iran, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ethiopia, and many other countries. Nigeria and Uganda are partner-countries, a classification short of full membership. Its de-dollarisation campaign, has been frowned at by the US Government. Trump has threatened sanctions, on the members of BRICS.
The Lobito Corridor
Although Trump is yet to comment on the continuing funding of the Lobito Corridor, analysts believe that it is in the strategic interest to continue with the project. The Lobito corridor consists of a 1,300 kilometres railway line from the Port of Lobito to Luau on Angola's Northeastern border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the North-Western Province of Zambia. The Benguela Railway is the underlying rail infrastructure, throughout most of the Lobito Corridor. Following the due diligence announced by President Biden in May 2023, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced the commitment of a $553 million direct loan to the Lobito Atlantic Railway, to upgrade and operate a 1,300-kilometre rail line from the Lobito Port to Angola.
Tariff War/External Revenue Service
Trump has signed an Executive Order, to create an External Revenue Service. Trump's undisguised resolve to engage in trade wars, has given rise to the expectation that he will increase tariffs on imports to the US. His effort will certainly destabilise the purpose of the World Trade Organisation.
Canada
Canada, a country of 41 million people with a long history of shared borders with the United States, has suffered political turmoil since Trump ramped up his rhetoric against the country. Trump insists that, the United States spends a lot in ensuring that Canada is protected. He complains that Canada has fallen short in its responsibilities as a State, and threatened to use economic force. Canadian leaders have not been silent. Justin Trudeau, the outgoing Canadian Prime Minister said "not a snowball's chance in hell" will the annexation of Canada happen.
Mexico
Trump, on his first day at the White House, has signed an Executive Order to change the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. He has also threatened Mexico with 25% tariff, if she fails to cooperate on the issues of immigration and drugs.
Greenland
Trump is yet to back down on his intention to acquire Greenland. He lays claim to Greenland, the world's largest Island, that is populated by about 57,000 people. He insists that he is doing it for the benefit of the world, to protect the world from perceived influence of Russia and China. Greenland is a strategic part of the Arctic region, that houses American space facility. The island is known to be blessed with rare natural resources, that are needed in producing batteries and technological equipment.
Panama Canal
Trump has said that, the Panama Canal should never have been handed over to Panama in the first place. He insists that Jimmy Carter, whom he called a good man, made a tremendous mistake by handing over the Canal to Panama. The Canal is vital to the United States, and he wants to reduce the charges paid by US ships that use the waterways to connect to the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Russia-Ukraine
Trump has called on Russia, to end the war in
Ukraine. The details of how he intends to achieve it, is still under wraps. Meanwhile, both Trump and Putin have declared their disposition to meet.
NATO
The new American Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and the Secretary-General of NATO, General Mark Rutte, in their conversation in the last week, have re-affirmed their commitment to the defence organisation. Trump 2.0, however, emphasises the need for NATO members to shore up their contributions to 5% of their GDP, in order to reduce the US budgetary exposure to the body.
Conclusion
Trump has declared a golden age for America, in his second term. Certainly, his foreign policy will be disruptive. As usual, Africa will bear a huge brunt of the policy. His resolve to fight ISIS globally will draw his interest to the Sahel, where he will contest for relevance with Russia and China. Kenya will also be on his radar, because of its strategic location. How he will respond to the war in Sudan, is still within conjecture.
It will be in the best interest of Nigeria and other African countries to prepare for the worst-case scenario, as Trump has made clear his intention to ruffle feathers.
Chukwuemeka Eze, Teacher of Diplomatic and Consular Relations Law, the Postgraduate School, Nasarawa State University, Keffi; Legal Adviser, Prime University, Abuja
America Under Trump and the Emerging World Order
Dr Emeka Ejikonye
I must convey my hearty and joyful greetings to Mr Donald J. Trump, on his historic second inauguration into the Presidency of the United States of America as the 47th President. His landslide electoral victory over Kamala Harris, the sitting Vice President, on November 5, 2024, was an indisputable
““…..I most certainly stand with President Trump on the LGBTQ issue. Nature has deliberately moulded all animals into male and female species, for the specific primary purpose of procreation towards the survival of Existence. Liberalism must know its limits….”
legitimacy visibly conferred by a vast majority of the US citizenry. By that singular act, Americans proved to the world that they bought into and are solidly behind the MAGA (“Make America Great Again”) Movement. However, now Politics is over and Governance has begun; this is the primary objective. Americans must live with their barefaced deliberate choice, and whatever policy initiatives that President Trump dishes out to them.
On the domestic front, I most certainly stand with President Trump on the LGBTQ issue. Nature has deliberately moulded all animals into male and female species, for the specific primary purpose of procreation towards the survival of Existence. Liberalism must know its limits, and be jolted to the reality of this defining line. Along the same line, Business must also be restrained in its irrational rabid lust for money. The devastating effects of climate change caused by depletion of the ozone layer, is a reality. President Trump! As you pull America out of the Paris climate accord, let the yearly-increase in environmentaldevastation caused by the wild fires on the US West Coast and hurricanes in the East, the tornadoes in the hinterland and blizzards to the North, constantly remind you of the catastrophic effects of global warming on your own citizenry. Yes! Go ahead! Drill! Drill! Drill! No wahala. But, know it that humanity can only negate the natural symbiotic order of Existence at its own peril.
Trump’s Bellicose Outbursts
On the global stage, the very bellicose outbursts of President Trump convey the impression of one who is living in the grandiose utopia of fictitious Hollywood movies. So, President Trump, you threatened and have actually ordered the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. This is certainly a showcase of you hitting the ground running. However, I hope Mexico and its allies will fall into line, because it will amount to a big shame and self-delusion, if the international community does not recognise the change and continues to use the old name. You have also issued stern warnings to the BRICS nations because, in your mind, they are not a formidable bloc that can withstand the
USA and dish out in equal measure. You have threatened to annex Canada, Greenland and Panama because, in your mind, they cannot withstand the American superpower, and do not have allies who will be ready and willing to stand in their defence.
You will impose tariffs on China because, in your mind, China is an unproductive ‘shithole’ African country that cannot reciprocate your actions in equal, if not greater, measure. You will force Putin to end Russia’s war with Ukraine or face sanctions because, in your mind, Putin is not pursuing a legitimate cause of halting the continued NATO contravention of the Agreement reached between the US and Russia, that it must not expand an inch into the border of any of the countries that comprised the USSR, which ended the Cold War. Or, that Russia is a lame-duck country that is lacking in military and economic might. You will force America’s NATO allies to spend more on Defence as if, if they call your bluff, US global authority will not diminish drastically. And, of course, “all hell will break loose” in the Middle East, if Hamas does not release the remaining hostages by January 20. Hmm! President Trump! As my people will say, “watch o”!
Refreshing Memories
In this your seeming ego-tripping, permit me to refresh your memory, and try to jolt you back to reality. Since your country, America, supposedly became a world superpower, it has not singularly won any war. Should I recall?
During the Second World War, the US entered the war fresh after the other allied countries had fought Germany for about two years. Even at that, it took the combined efforts of the allies in the East and West, for Germany to surrender. Indeed, Soviet forces entered and captured a vast portion of Berlin before the Americans. In the Korean War, Soviet forces came to the aid of the North Koreans and almost drove American forces out of the Korean Peninsular, before your country tactfully deployed UN intervention to divide Korea along the 38th Parallel. Of course, in Vietnam, America confronted the patriotic-zeal, strong-will and steadfast-resolve of the Viet Minh under the able leadership of Ho Chi Minh. Eventually, you ran away in 1973, like a fright-stricken dog with its tail in-between the legs; it was an outright surrender.
In Iraq, the only success America achieved was the capture of Saddam Hussein and this was, indeed, made possible by the staunch resistance of the Kurds and Shia-Moslems to domination by Sunni-Moslems. Since the overthrow of Saddam’s Sunni domination, how far? President Trump! Can you really compare the number of young and innocent American lives the US had to fly back home in body-bags, with the one life of Saddam Hussein? Was it really worth it? Most recently, the whole world witnessed how the US ran
President, United States of America, Donald J. Trump
Trump 2.0: expectations, Anxieties, Apprehensions and Admonitions
away from Afghanistan, after losing countless young and innocent lives. That was another decisive surrender. Afghanistan proved itself again to be the ‘death-bed’ of the superpowers. The only singular victory I can credit to the US since its rise to global prominence, was the 1989 invasion of Panama to capture and depose General Manuel Noriega. But, come to think of it, was that really a war?
According to my late father, quoting his colleague, “I NAUGH”. Oga Trump! Abeg, do a soul search. Think well! Talk is cheap o! As a student of History, I still recall being taught “Rise and Fall of Mali Empire”; “Rise and Fall of Songhai Empire”; “Rise and Fall of Oyo Empire”; “Rise and Fall of Kanem Bornu Empire”; “Rise and Fall of British Empire”. This your seeming return of America back to its early 20th century policy of isolationism, may be the impetus that will fast-track “the Fall of US Empire”. In my view, the fall of US imperialism started on September 11, 2001, that eventful day that Americans had a firsthand dose of what their country has been dishing out to the rest of humanity. For the US to remain prominent in global affairs, a more pacific, conciliatory and diplomatic approach is the way to go. Tone down your rhetoric. This your gra-gra no go work. As the saying goes, “no matter how bloodshot the eyes, it cannot light a cigarette”. May America not witness global humiliation, under your watch. Yes, my dear continent, Africa, is a ‘shithole’. We should not be reckoned with. You and your cohorts, must continue to ride roughshod over us. No be your fault. I blame our ruling elite that continues to allow itself to be driven by greed and morbid quest for primitive acquisition, rather than a sense of self-preservation for positive legacy to posterity. This is our curse. However, know it that, gradually, a new crop of patriotic leaders has started to emerge. Young patriots who recognise, and are resolved to start harnessing the huge human and material potential that abound in us. The young man in Burkina Faso, is particularly on my mind. I fervently pray that his colleague in Senegal, will follow suit. Una contempt for our people, go soon stop. Mark my words. I don talk my own. Na so e be me.
Emeka Ejikonye, PhD, Specialist in Public Budgeting
How Legal Challenges to Trump’s Executive Orders Will Reshape US Govt Policies
Ed Malik
“First, I will declare a national emergency at our Southern border. All illegal entry will immediately be halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back from the places from which they came…As Commander-in-Chief, I have no higher responsibility than to defend our country...”
Introduction
For those who carefully followed his campaign trail, President Trump is making it clear that his administration will prioritise America First policies from day one, in complete deference to his Make America Great Again (MAGA) ideology.
Thus, Trump set a breakneck pace on the first day of his second term, taking numerous executive actions and rescinding 78 executive orders from his predecessor, while also pardoning roughly 1,500 people charged in connection with the January 6, 2021, breach at the U.S. Capitol. These executive orders were just the beginning. As the ink dries on these orders, their impact will be felt across the US and other nations.
Understanding the Executive Orders
Let’s first understand what an Executive Order (EO) is - a directive the President issues, typically, in the first few weeks in office, to manage or implement his own policy thrust on some aspects of Federal Government. Dishing out EOs is a common feature by new Presidents in the United States, but has gained currency in many countries. The legal or constitutional basis for executive orders derives from multiple sources, including constitutional and extant discretional necessities.
support. Some EOs, over time, may be amended or ratified by a legal Act and/ or, discarded.
In every election cycle, there has been a subsisting conversation on the impact of a President’s EOs, which are executive in nature, on the legislature’s capacity to enact laws nay the Judiciary’s prerogative of interpretation. Policy analysts agree that EOs only have significant influence over the internal affairs of government on emergent scenarios like deciding how and to what degree legislation will be enforced in dealing with emergencies, waging wars, and in general, fine-tuning policy choices that are needed to implement broad statutes.
Only the President can issue an EO, and once issued, it remains in force until it is cancelled, revoked, adjudicated unlawful, or expires on their terms. At any time, the President may revoke, modify or make exceptions from any executive order, whether the order was made by the current President or a predecessor.
Meaning and Value of American Citizenship”, aims to end birthright citizenship.
This order, will also impact children born to mothers with temporary lawful presence in the US, such as those on student or tourist visas, if the father is not a US citizen or lawful permanent resident. It’s essential to note that, this policy will only apply to individuals born within the US after 30 days of the order, which would be from February 19, 2025.
A US Constitutional Law Attorney, Alan Dershowitz, weighed into the ongoing conversation and possible legal challenge on the broad implication of the orders, especially the birthright citizenship, in the context of US Constitution Articles concerning legal birthright, warning that this particular Executive Order might not survive in Court.
In an episode of ‘The Dershow’ shortly after the EO on ending birthright citizenship was signed by Trump, a sceptical Dershowitz said that while he believes birthright citizenship was "a dumb idea", he doesn't think Trump can nullify it through executive action.
With the above statement, which are excerpts of his historic acceptance speech at the Capitol One Arena, Washington DC, just few minutes after he was inaugurated as the 47th President of United States of America, Donald John Trump, outlined his broad agenda which he aptly called ‘The Golden Age of America’, which aims to restore America to its pride of place as first among nations, he grabbed his pen and started signing a stack of Executive Orders (EOs) right there before the audience and later, issued more from the Oval Office.
For instance, Article 2 of the US Constitution gives a President, broad executive and enforcement authority to use their discretion to determine how to enforce the law, or to otherwise manage the resources and staff of the Federal Government’s executive branch.
The ability to make such orders is also based on expressed or implied articles of the Constitution, which gives a window to a President to exercise discretionary power in the interest of the nation.
But, what is not publicly acknowledged is that, the vast majority of EOs are proactive suggestions or policy roadmaps from Federal agencies requiring urgent and pragmatic attention by the President.
A clear, albeit, definitive check to any prospective abuse is that, like all legislative statutes, regulations, edicts and announcements, they must be rooted in the Constitution, in the context of judicial review, which may uphold or overturn the orders if they’re lacking in constitutional
“Oga Trump! ….Think well! Talk is cheap o! As a student of History, I still recall being taught “Rise and Fall of Mali Empire”…. For the US to remain prominent in global affairs, a more pacific, conciliatory and diplomatic approach is the way to go. Tone down your rhetoric”
It is in this nexus, that we can have a clear glean of the several EOs that President Trump has issued since January 20, immediately after his inauguration, and sound the gong for legal experts to do a critical inquisition of their framework of action, within specific and extant statutes of the US.
The first batch of EOs were compartmentalised under the following sub-heads; Immigration and Border, Federal Workers, Gender and DEI, Energy and The Environment, Military and National Security, Taxes and Tariffs, Federal Government Changes and Other Executive Actions.
The EOs that sparked public debate include ending birthright citizenship, official recognition of two genders (which effectively ends diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the federal Government), withdrawal from WHO and the Climate Change Accord, Tax Reviews, creation of Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the undoing of 78 of former President Joe Biden’s executive actions, executive orders, and Presidential memoranda giving 75 days reprieve for micro social networking site, Tik-tok and another, removing vaccine for Covid-19 as a condition for Green Card applicants. And, to conspiracy theorists, a big one; an EO ordering the release of records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy (JFK), Attorney-General Robert F. Kennedy (RFK), and the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.
Ending Birthright Citizenship
But, of intense public interest is the EO on Ending Birthright Citizenship. The order specifically directed Government agencies to stop issuing citizenship documentation for babies born in the US, to parents without legal status. The order, titled “Protecting the
Barely hours into Trump's Presidency, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) launched a lawsuit over the ending birthright citizenship EO, arguing that it violates the 14th Amendment. The case was filed by the ACLU of New Hampshire, ACLU of Maine, ACLU of Massachusetts, Asian Law Caucus, State Democracy Defenders Fund, and Legal Defence Fund on behalf of organisations with members whose babies born on U.S. soil will be denied citizenship under the order, including New Hampshire Indonesian Community Support, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and Make the Road New York. The lawsuit charges the Trump administration with flouting the Constitution’s dictates, congressional intent, and longstanding Supreme Court precedent.
It is instructive to highlight that Trump, in his first missionary journey to the White House, had touted the idea of tinkering with the birthright citizenship but, didn’t carry it through. Referencing that idea, Dershowitz said, "He said he was gonna end birthright citizenship. I think birthright citizenship was a dumb idea. If I were writing a constitution, I don't think I would put birthright citizenship in the constitution”. "But, let me read to you what the Constitution says, and then you can make your decision as to whether it applies."
Dershowitz then quoted Section 1 of the 14th Amendment, which states, "All persons born or naturalised in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside".
Speaking about the term "born," Dershowitz said that "there's no ambiguity about that word." He also highlighted a key part, adding, "And, here's the critical clause: and, not or, and subject
President, United States of America, Donald J. Trump
Trump 2.0: expectations, Anxieties, Apprehensions and Admonitions
to the jurisdiction thereof".
That portion about being "subject to the jurisdiction thereof" is where the issue lies, Dershowitz said. The provision was passed after the Civil War to overturn the Supreme Court's 1857 decision in Dred Scott v Sanford, which excluded African Americans from eligibility for U.S. citizenship solely based on race.
Dershowitz said that, it would likely take congressional action to clear up this point of contention. He assessed, saying, "The courts will ultimately decide that, but my best view, as somebody who studied the Constitution for a long time, is that, at the very least, it would take congressional legislation to make a person born in the United States a noncitizen, by making that person not subject to the jurisdiction of the United States".
Some legal scholars suspect that Trump is testing the issue and intends for it, by design, to move through the courts, ultimately landing before Supreme court of the United States (SCOTUS). As popular writer Kurt Schlichter pointed out, "it is going to be heard, and it is going to be analysed. That's how things should work. You make arguments, and then Judges consider them, in the context of precedent and rule accordingly".
For now, all eyes are on Trump, globally, to see what happens next.
Ed Malik, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of DDNEWSONLINE.COM
Trump’s Second Coming, Implications for Liberties of American Citizens and Immigrants Under US Constitution
Dr Akpo Mudiaga Odje
Introduction
Monday, 20th of January, 2025, witnessed the formal inauguration of Mr Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States of America. Understood, this is his second coming, having served out his first term from 2017 to 2021.
President Trump's Maiden Speech and Liberties of Citizens and Immigrants
As expected, and playing to the gallery of his recent acclaimed Christian faith, Mr President banished the recognition suo moto of any hitherto form of transgender status, by giving recognition to only two genders known to his administration, to wit: Male and Female. In addition, he fired also the expected salvo on illegal/ legal migrants by swiftly declaring that children Born in America by illegal immigrants or legal migrants on a temporary status, shall no longer be accorded automatic American citizenship. He followed this up, by immediately signing an Executive Order to that effect.
No doubt, these two pronouncements amongst others, raise constitutional issues and affect liberties of citizens and even illegal/ legal migrants, as the American Constitution jealousy protects rights to privacy, from discrimination and freedom of movement to all.
The raison d’etre upon which the American Constitution is founded, is for the" pursuit of happiness" of her citizens and those who are there, whether legally or otherwise. And, the United States Supreme Court has consistently with admiration, upheld that constitutional idiosyncratic pasturing in all ramifications.
Constitutionality of President Trump's Actions
Of course, as adumbrated above, the Judiciary in the United States is not only critical of
“Mr
infringement on liberties, it is also courageous in striking down draconian actions of Government the impugn those rights.
The issue of transgender will ultimately be one that will reach the Supreme Court. And, the focus will be whether to grant that right of transgender transformation on citizens who attain a certain age, or to anyone at all.
As the Democrats, to him, took this matter rather too lightly.
So, this is the crucible that must be addressed by the court, because the person involved in the transgender owns his body in law, and is permitted to decide how he wants to live in it, subject of course, to laws against self destruction of any kind.
Accordingly, if an adult of 18 years, which is considered the most universal adult voting age, gives a written notice, and consent to transgender, can same be restricted, or prevented by State or Federal law, and/ or an Executive Order from undergoing such a transformation?
As he or she, is a citizen protected by the Constitution to a right of privacy, and most importantly, the pursuit of happiness, which he intends to exercise by transgendering.
Whilst there appear to be a paucity, if not non-existent direct Supreme Court decisions on this vexed issue, another question also, will be what is what will likely be the nature of crime such a person to be transgendered will be committing, as well as, the person doing the transgender for same. It is very important, as both can be impari delecto, that is, in mutual wrong if the exercise is carried out without any law backing same, or at least a court order to that effect.
The underlying challenge will be for the court to do the balancing test, as between freedom of privacy and the protection of the larger interest of society, against the dangers of creating a third sex (or multiple sexes) as it were.
This point cannot be over-emphasised, because due to the unique nature of transgenders, they also require a special and different law from those which are regulating the hitherto existing two sexes of male and female. They also require special protection from the other two sexes
Trump must be shown the way of exercising democratic powers,
through consultation and dialogue, especially with the Congress. People are expected to be ruled by, and under, law...And, not by the whimsical and vainglorious desire of a comic Lion King”
So, whilst President Trump is focused on eradicating these new species, he is not smart enough to also focus on how to achieve his eradication programme within the ambits of the law and Constitution. Whether transgender or not, they have a constitutional right against discrimination of any kind under the Constitution.
Executive Order on Abolishment of Automatic American Citizenship for Children Born Of Illegal/Legal Immigrants
The above Executive Order conveys a very potent challenge to the acquisition of American citizenship, by children Born from non-American citizens. Trump is concerned about the eventual transformation of children of illegal immigrants especially, into American citizens, just because they were born on his soil.
He is vexed that a son of an illegal immigrant from a shit hole country, transforms into an American citizen by divine chance of birth on American soil, if especially he or she is a Mexican!! This warped perception has led Trump to forget that America was actually founded by Red Indians and immigrants, including illegal immigrants.
For this Pontification and more, see American History by Prof Olson America, as a result of its immigrant history, some of whom even became Presidents, decided to practice automatic citizenship by birth (Jus Solis), in order not discriminate against, nor prejudice the talents and innocence embedded in the innocently Born child, who may also like many others, become an asset to the great American dream enunciated by the American greats such as George Washington (her first President), Benjamin Franklin and Abraham Lincoln.
Consequently, any law, not even a feeble Executive Order, which directly or indirectly seeks to impugn that constitutional implant, will be wholly in vicious conflict with the Constitution, and thus, rendered holistically otoise in law. As expected, Judges have already started issuing suspension orders on the said Executive Order, which is the right thing to do, pending the plethora of cases already filed to challenge same.
The fact that the Executive Order is expected to commence in futuro, within some couple of days after it was signed is irrelevant in suspending it, as there is a lower risk in its suspension, than in it's enforcement, as it's an overt breach of the 14th Amendment of their Constitution which guarantees automatic citizenship by birth, regardless of the immigration status of the parents.
US District Judge Stops Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order
A United States Federal Judge, temporarily blocked President Trump's Executive Order redefining birthright citizenship. The US District Judge, John Coughenour described it as "blatantly unconstitutional". This was in response to the suit filed by Arizona, Illinois, Oregon and Washington. A total of 22 States have filed Suits to challenge same. The above order applies nationally.
President Trump's Deportation Order
The same line of arguments to some extent, support the immigrants from crass deportation , without a court order. Although, their rights appear lesser than those of transgender from American extraction, and legal temporary migrants, the illegal immigrants still require protection from brazen acts of deportation. The process challenging an administrative deportation order must be allowed to be completed by the illegal immigrants, before their deportation.
Rights of Gays Still Preserved by Christian Faith, President Trump
Notwithstanding the Christian faith grandstanding by President Trump, he appears to have wittingly forgotten what his Christian faith also talks about gay practices, which is sanctioned by death in the twentieth chapter of the instruction filled book of Leviticus. And, also Apostle Paul condemned same in 1st Corinthians. Surprisingly, they remain unscathed here and apparently rewarded by President Trump, as most of them, especially from the US Armed Forces, voted for Mr Trump’s second coming.
Trump's Second Series and the New World Order
Indeed, the fear of President Trump, even before his swearing in, has made the world to start reshaping itself. Just now, a truce somehow, has been reached in the Hamas-Israeli war. The Russian President, says he is open to dialogue with Mr Trump. The cost of a barrel of crude oil has risen to $80, as we speak. All in response to Mr Trump's second coming. The Mexico walls are to go up like flames of fire. Illegal immigrants are chased, hounded, and captured, even from the sanctuary of Churches where they sought refuge.
Conclusion
These over-abrasive tendencies of President Trump need to be urgently checked by the courts, as some courts are doing right now. Mr Trump must be shown the way of exercising democratic powers, through consultation and dialogue, especially with the Congress. People are expected to be ruled by, and under, law... And, not by the whimsical and vainglorious desire of a comic Lion King.
Dr Akpo Mudiaga Odje, LLD, LLM(Merit) (London), BL, Member, British Council, Dr Mudiaga Odje SAN & Co, Warri, Delta State
President, United States of America, Donald J. Trump
TRIBUTE
In Loving Memory of Oluwakayode Solomon Ojewale (1984-2024)
Olanrewaju Ojewale
With hearts heavy with grief, we honour and remember the beautiful soul of our beloved son, brother, and father, Oluwakayode Solomon Ojewale, who tragically passed away on July 6, 2024, at the age of 40. His untimely death has left an indescribable void in our lives, and the pain of his absence is something we carry with us every day. January 17, 2025 would have been Kayode’s 41st on earth!
It has been over six months since you left us, and every day feels like eternity without you. I find myself searching for available words to express the depths of the pain and sorrow we’re enduring. The world feels different now, quieter in a way that makes your absence painfully loud.
We never imagined we’d have to say goodbye to you so soon, not at 40, not in the prime of your life, with so much still to offer. But life has a way of surprising us with harsh realities, and now we must learn to live with this deep ache in our hearts.
I think back to the memories we shared, and it’s hard to grasp that those moments are now forever in the past. We fought, we laughed, we shared secrets and dreams. You were my brother, my confidant, and even in the tough times, I always knew that you were there to offer those soothing words to me, just as I was there for you.
You had this gift of bringing light into any room you entered, always with that genuine smile, full of warmth and kindness. Even though our lives were sometimes busy, with our own jobs and responsibilities, I could always count on you to be just a call away at any time of the day.
Oluwakayode, known to us all as Kayode, was a man whose warmth, kindness, and generosity touched everyone he encountered. As a son, brother, father, husband, and friend, his love and dedication to his family were unparalleled. His presence was a constant source of joy and comfort, a beacon of light to those fortunate enough to know him.
I will remind the world of the incredible person you were. Though our time together was far too short, the impact you had on all of us will last a lifetime. The love you gave, the lessons you taught, and the faith you lived by will continue
to echo in our lives.
He was deeply loved by his immediate family—his parents, siblings, and extended family—who will forever cherish the countless memories of laughter, support, and unconditional love. He was a caring and loving brother, a protector, and a confidant. His relationship with his family was a true reflection of the bond he held so dear to his heart.
Beyond his immediate family, Kayode’s affection and care extended to his church, family, friends, and colleagues. He was known for his deep faith, and his commitment to the church was evident in his actions, whether through service, prayer, or offering a listening ear to those in need. He had a way of making
everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. His church community in Lagos will forever remember him as a man who lived his life with purpose and compassion.
Kayode’s colleagues at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) were truly blessed to have worked alongside such a dedicated and compassionate soul. His unwavering professionalism, paired with the warmth and camaraderie he brought to the workplace, left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with him. The impact he had on his coworkers cannot be measured, and his absence is felt deeply by each of them. But it wasn’t just at work where his light shone brightly. His college friends—Hammed, Fisayo, Yemi, Sunday,
and so many others—speak with such admiration and love for the incredible person he was. Their words of praise echo the same kindness and generosity that defined his life. Kayode touched every life he encountered, leaving behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and unforgettable memories.
Perhaps the most heartbreaking aspect of his untimely passing is the fact that his son, Oluwalonimi, who is almost a year old, will never experience the unparalleled love and affection of his father. As we watch his son grow, we are reminded of all the milestones and moments of joy that Kayode will not be there to witness. It is a sorrow that words cannot fully express, knowing that his son will have to grow up without the nurturing presence of his dad.
Life has not been the same since Kayode’s departure. The world feels dimmer without his infectious smile, his reassuring words, and his comforting embrace. His absence has created a void that can never be filled.
Yet, as we mourn, we also find solace in the love he gave us and the memories we shared. We carry his spirit with us every day, knowing that though he is no longer physically with us, his love and legacy live on in our hearts.
I am proud of you, Kayode. Proud of the man you became, proud of the father you were, proud of the Christian example you set. You fought the good fight, and now you rest in the arms of a loving God, waiting for us to join you one day. Until that day comes, know that I love you, and I miss you deeply. And though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that you are at peace.
As we remember Oluwakayode Solomon Ojewale, we celebrate the life he lived and the love he shared. We are grateful for the time we had with him and for the lessons he imparted through his kindness, humility, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
Rest in peace, dear Kayode. You will forever be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in God’s eternal love, and may your soul continue to shine brightly, lighting the way for all of us who remain. I will carry your memory with me forever, and I will hold on to the hope of seeing you again one day.
With all my love, always,
• Olanrewaju is Kayode’s elder brother.
Police Destroy IPON/ESN Enclave in Imo, Kill Six Agitators
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), yesterday, said their operatives attached to the Imo State Police Command uncovered and dismantled Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network (IPOB- ESN) hideout in a forest within Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
Counsel to activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, Mr. Deji Adeyanju, has described the bail condition slammed on his client by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) as outrageous. Rejecting the bail conditions set for the release of the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), in the 2023 general election, Adeyanju demanded an
linked three of the members to arson, kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state in recent time.
unconditional release or a release on self-recognition.
Sowore, publisher of a popular online news portal, Sahara Reporters, had arrived the Force Intelligence Department Headquarters in Abuja on Monday morning for questioning, following an invitation by the police.
Sowore, who reportedly arrived around 9:58 am, was invited following a viral video he shared, alleging extortion by officers of
The police also disclosed that the Operatives killed no fewer than six members of IPOB/ ESN during the intelligence-led operation.
A statement by Force
Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa
“As part of the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to emplace peace and public safety across the country, police operatives attached to the Imo State Police Command have achieved a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against terrorism with the neutralisation of three deadly terrorist kingpins associated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
coordinated operation aimed at locating and dislodging the terrorist hideouts.
Nigeria Police Force at a checkpoint in Lagos.
The police cited multiple allegations against him, including resisting and obstructing public officers, disobedience to lawful orders, cyberstalking and acts allegedly aimed at preventing arrests.
The invitation letter, signed by the Force Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police Force, outlined the allegations and requested his
“On January 24, 2025, operatives from the Command’s
“The police operatives located the terrorists’ hideout in a forest within Ihube, Okigwe LGA. Upon approach, the operatives came under heavy fire from suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists but demonstrated exceptional courage and engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
presence at their Abuja office for an interview with the Deputy Inspector General of Police.
In response to the summon, the Take It Back Movement, a group supporting Sowore, called for a protest against police extortion under the banner “Occupy Force Headquarters.”
“The operation resulted in the neutralisation of six members of the terrorist group, with three being ESN kingpins identified as Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka
natives of Ogube, Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area, and the recovery of five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), several communication equipment, along with 8 operational motorcycles used by the group.
This led to a poster featuring images of Sowore and the Inspector General of Police gaining significant traction on social media platform
particularly X (formerly Twitter).
But speaking to journalists, Adeyanju explained that Sowore was required to produce a Level 17 civil servant, such as a permanent secretary, as a guarantor to secure his release after questioning by the police.
“Prior investigations had revealed the involvement of the group in several high-profile crimes, including the attack on the Owerri Correctional Center on April 5, 2021, the killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022, and the burning of Arondizuogu
honored the police invitation.
The group, Adejobi said, was also involved in multiple kidnappings, including those of WAEC staff on June 5, 2023, four reverend sisters on August 21, 2022, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, appreciated the gallant operatives for their exceptional display of bravery and coordination.
Adeyanju further stated that the police demanded that Sowore surrender his international passport, a condition he described as excessive, especially since Sowore voluntarily
The IGP, therefore, charged police operatives across commands and formations to sustain the tempo and implement the Force’s action plan aimed at reducing crimes drastically in the first quarter of
“Sowore has been very vocal in criticising the inspector general of police for staying in office beyond the constitutional prescribed term. He has said the IG is an illegal inspector general of police. “Even for terrorism-related charges, it is rare to see such stringent bail conditions imposed for administrative bail. They have refused to release him on self-recognition,” he said.
Katsina State’s Bold Steps Towards Tackling Insecurity
Over the past 12 years, banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling have escalated, causing widespread devastation with communities disrupted, livelihoods shattered, and the socio-economic fabric torn apart. Yet, amid these challenges, the state has emerged as a beacon of resilience and innovation in tackling these security issues as was evidenced recently when Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was honoured at the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards in Doha, Qatar, for his administration’s exceptional efforts in creating a safer environment for the people of Katsina. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes
L-R: ACC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, National Public Relations Officer, NCS; Amb Suleimane Mane, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Guinea Bissau; Brig. Gen. Eric Angaye (Rtd), State Security Coordinator, Bayelsa State, Nigeria; Prof. Henri Fouché, Vice Chair, Security Watch Africa Initiatives (SWAI) BOT; Patrick Agbambu, International Coordinator/CEO, SWAI; General Christopher Musa, OFR, Chief of Defence Staff, Nigeria; Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, CFR, 21st Indigenous Chief of Naval Staff, Nigerian Navy; Dr. Faruk Lawal, Deputy Governor, Katsina State; Amb. Foday Mallang, Ambassador of The Gambia to Qatar; Amb. Balkisu Rufai Nura, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Nigeria; Brig. Gen. Sani K. Usman, mni (Rtd), Member, SWAI BOT; Dr. Naseer Babangida Muazu, Commissioner of Internal Security, Katsina State, Nigeria; and IGP Seedy Touray, Inspector General of Police, Gambia Police Force
Katsina State, a pivotal part of Nigeria’s northwestern region, has endured severe security challenges over the past 12 years. The escalation of banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling has left a trail of devastation, displacing communities, disrupting livelihoods, and weakening the socio-economic fabric. Despite these daunting circumstances, the state has demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovative strategies in addressing these issues.
A Prestigious Recognition
This progress was recently recognised on an international stage when Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was honoured at the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards in Doha, Qatar, for his administration’s exceptional commitment to creating a safer and more secure Katsina.
The 18th Africa Security Watch Conference, themed “Developing a Module for People-Centric Governance Towards Enhancement of Peace and Security,” brought together global security experts, policymakers, and leaders from Nigeria, Guinea Bissau, The Gambia, South Africa, Kenya, and Qatar to chart the future of security in Africa.
Prominent African leaders, including Governor Duoye Diri of Bayelsa; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, and Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, were also honored at the event, whilst in attendance were Brigadier General Eric Angaye (Rtd), Bayelsa State Security Coordinator and Coordinator, Bayelsa Community Safety Corps; Vice Chair, Board of Trustees, Security Watch Africa Initiatives, Prof. Henri Fouche; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa; 21st Indigenous Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (Rtd) CFR; Katsina State Deputy Governor, H.E Faruk Lawal Jobe; and Foday Malang, Ambassador of The Gambia to Qatar, amongst others.
It was at this platform that Katsina State’s remarkable progress was recognised, with Governor Radda receiving the title of “Best Security Conscious State Governor/Premier in West and Central Africa”, which underscored the effectiveness of his administration’s security reforms and sets a benchmark for other states in the region.
Understanding the Roots of Insecurity Prior to the award ceremony, the conference had held two days of intensive brainstorming and paper presentations, one of which was from Katsina. In the governor’s keynote address, he highlighted the state’s innovative multidimensional strategies for combating insecurity. Represented by Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, the governor spoke on “Banditry – Challenges and the Way Forward: The Katsina State Example,” where he harped
L-R: Amb. Suleimane Mane, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Guinea Bissau; Brig. Gen. Sani K. Usman, mni (Rtd), Member, SWAI Board of Trustees (BOT); Patrick Agbambu, International Coordinator/CEO, Security Watch Africa Initiatives (SWAI); Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, CFR, 21st Indigenous Chief of Naval Staff, Nigerian Navy; H.E Dr. Farouk Lawal, Deputy Governor, Katsina State, Nigeria; Dr. Naseer Babangida Muazu, Commissioner of Internal Security, Katsina State, Nigeria; and ACC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, National Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Customs Service
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda (right), who was represented by Deputy Governor, Malam Faruk Jobe receiving the “Best Security Conscious State Governor/Premier in West and Central Africa”, from former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (Rtd), CFR, in Doha, Qatar…recently
on Katsina State’s security crisis, which has deep roots in various socio-economic and structural factors including the collapse of traditional cultural norms, pervasive poverty, and unemployment that have created a fertile ground for criminal activities.
Also, weak governance in some areas and the state’s porous borders with Niger Republic have exacerbated the problem. Compounding these issues are drug abuse, low literacy rates, and the destabilising influence of bitter local politics.
As these challenges intensified, 24 of the state’s 34 local government areas were severely affected by banditry and related crimes. In particular, localities such as Jibia, Batsari, and Safana suffered relentless attacks due to their proximity to the Rugu Forest Reserve and neighbouring conflict-prone states.
The activities of criminal gangs led to the loss of countless lives, displacement of communities, and destruction of economic and social infrastructure. Agricultural productivity plummeted, education was disrupted, and healthcare facilities were abandoned.
Governor Radda’s Vision: A Comprehensive Security Framework
To tackle all these, Governor Radda’s administration, inaugurated on May 29, 2023, adopted a comprehensive security reform strategy designed to address the root causes of insecurity. This plan combines innovative measures at every
level of governance to deliver lasting peace.
Governor Radda’s message highlighted a multi-dimensional approach to security reform, blending kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. According to him, the non-kinetic measures include establishing a Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs and creating a four-tier security structure involving state, local government, district, and ward-level committees. Also, conflict resolution centres have been set up, and climate security hubs developed in collaboration with the UNDP aim to address environmental factors contributing to resource-based conflicts.
Additionally, the administration has enacted a containment order to regulate cattle markets in frontline areas and introduced security education across all levels of schooling. Partnerships with development agencies such as USAID and regional cooperation with neighbouring states have further strengthened the framework.
Kinetic measures, he said, complement these initiatives. He revealed that the government established a Joint Security Surveillance Centre and a security call centre, recruited and trained local vigilante groups, and procured advanced security assets. The Katsina State Community Watch Corps, supported by a state law, plays a pivotal role in bolstering community-level security. Moreover, a Quick Response Squad ensures rapid intervention in areas of heightened risk.
Tangible Progress Against Crime
According to the governor, the results of these measures have been significant. Sixteen out of the 24 most affected local government areas have experienced a remarkable 70 per cent reduction in criminal activities. Community resilience has
improved, with many residents beginning to rebuild their lives. The state’s economy shows signs of recovery as agricultural activities gradually resume in previously abandoned farmlands. Despite these achievements, challenges remain. Large numbers of displaced persons strain the resources of host communities. Hundreds of schools and health facilities remain closed, and over 300 villages have been abandoned. Traumatised victims require psychological support, and many agricultural lands still lie fallow, awaiting revitalisation.
Charting
a Path Forward
Recognising the scale of the remaining challenges, Governor Radda’s administration has outlined key areas for support. Livelihood programmes targeting women and youth, coupled with agricultural mechanisation, could restore economic stability. The renovation of schools and health centres, along with the construction of irrigation facilities, would revitalise rural communities. Psychosocial support for victims remains critical to addressing the emotional scars left by years of violence.
This comprehensive approach aligns with the theme of the Africa Security Watch Conference: promoting people-centred governance. By focusing on the well-being of its citizens, Katsina State serves as a model for other regions grappling with insecurity. The emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability has set a benchmark in addressing Africa’s complex security challenges.
A Continent-Wide Call to Action
Speaking at the conference, Mr. Patrick Agbambu, International Coordinator and CEO of Africa Security Watch, highlighted the broader implications of Africa’s security crisis. Noting that over 70 per cent of the continent faces various forms of insecurity, hindering development and perpetuating poverty, Agbambu stressed the need for responsive, people-centric governance to build resilient societies where peace and stability can thrive.
He stressed that the Katsina example offers hope and a blueprint for tackling these challenges. He said: “Governor Radda’s administration has demonstrated that, with strategic leadership, even the most entrenched security issues can be addressed. By prioritising collaboration, leveraging global partnerships, and implementing innovative policies, Katsina State is transforming adversity into an opportunity for growth.
“As African leaders continue to grapple with the continent’s security challenges, Katsina serves as a testament to what is possible when determination, collaboration, and innovation converge. The lessons from this Nigerian state resonate far beyond its borders, offering inspiration to governments across Africa striving for a safer, more prosperous future.”
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The soaring prices of key fuels in Nigeria have continued to take their toll on Nigerian homes and businesses, with cooking gas skyrocketing by over 50 per cent despite the waiver of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the last quarter of 2023 and petrol price shooting up by 76.99 per cent year-on-year.
New data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicated that between December 2023 and December 2024, the cost of refilling a 12.5kg Cylinder of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or cooking gas continued to rise, although the federal government announced the withdrawal of 7.5 per cent tax to crash prices.
The rising prices of petrol and LPG have had a significant impact on Nigerians, affecting various aspects of their lives, reducing purchasing power, raising cost of production, leading to higher transportation costs and affecting the general prices of goods and services.
The hike in pump prices has raised socio-economic pressure on families, making it difficult for them to afford basic necessities, while the increased cost of cooking gas has also affected households, particularly low-income families who rely heavily on gas for cooking.
Besides, the high cost of cooking gas has led to an increase in the use of firewood and charcoal, posing a threat to environmental
sustainability. However, experts blame the continuous increase in these fuels on global market forces.
But it remains ironic that despite Nigeria removing VAT on cooking gas, to alleviate economic hardship and promote cleaner energy, prices continue to soar.
The impact on manufacturers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) has been particularly severe, worsening inflation, which already stands at over 34 per cent and potential closure of already struggling businesses.
“On a year-on-year basis, the average retail price for refilling a 12.5kg cylinder of LPG rose by 50.08 per cent from N11,510.16 in December 2023,” the NBS report stated.
However, month-on-month, the average retail price for refilling a 12.5kg cylinder, the report said, decreased marginally by 0.05 per cent from N17,283.58 in November 2024 to N17,274.16 in December 2024.
Also, the average retail price for refilling a 5kg cylinder of LPG increased by 1.26 per cent on a month-on-month basis from N7,088.16 recorded in November 2024 to N7,177.27 in December 2024. On a year-on-year basis, this increased by 44.62 per cent from N4,962.87 in December 2023.
On state profile analysis, Taraba recorded the highest average price for refilling a 5kg cylinder of cooking gas, with N8,074.41, followed by Lagos with N7,910.71,
and Benue with N7,900.00.
On the other hand, Delta recorded the lowest price with N6,455.00, followed by Ondo and Zamfara with N6,683.33 and N6,778.57 respectively.
In addition, analysis by zone showed that the North-east recorded the highest average retail price for refilling a 5kg cylinder, with N7,404.33, followed by the North-central with N7,352.32 while the South-south recorded the lowest with N6,969.99.
On state profile analysis, Taraba recorded the highest average retail price for the refilling of a 12.5kg, with N20,290.75, followed by Yobe with N19,000.00 and Rivers with N18,710.94. Conversely, the lowest average price was recorded in
Kebbi with N15,733.33, followed by Nasarawa and Kwara with N15,875.00 and N16,109.38, respectively. Analysis by zone showed that the North-east recorded the highest average retail price for refilling a 12.5kg cylinder, with N18,173.90, followed by the South-west with N17,544.26 while the North-central recorded the lowest price with N16,482.47.
As for petrol, the average retail price paid by consumers for December 2024 was N1189.12, indicating a 76.99 per cent increase compared to the value recorded in December 2023 of N671.86.
MAN: Why Manufacturing Contribution to GDP
Unsold Inventory
The President of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Meshioye, has blamed the low contribution of the manufacturing sector to the Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024 on a myriad of macro-economic and infrastructural challenges that severely impacted its performance, strained the sector’s profitability.
Meshioye also said that the outlook for the manufacturing sector in 2025 largely depends on the success of ongoing economic reforms, especially the implementation of the proposed
tax reforms, stabilisation of critical macroeconomic indicators, and targeted investments in infrastructure and technology.
In a chat with newsmen in Lagos he said: “In 2024, Nigeria’s manufacturing sector encountered a myriad of macroeconomic and infrastructural challenges that severely impacted its performance. The sector faced mounting pressure from high inflation, a depreciating Naira, rising interest rates, escalating electricity tariffs, and record low sales, multiplicity of taxes and levies and militating security concerns. These factors collectively strained the sector’s
profitability and curtailed its contribution to the nation’s GDP.”
He added that inflation in Nigeria, which reached an alarming 34.6 per cent by November 2024, diminished consumers’ purchasing power and causing a decline in demand for manufactured goods and, “led to an accumulation of unsold inventory, which rose to N1.4 trillion across the manufacturing industries.”
According to him, the floating of the exchange rate resulted in a steep depreciation of the Naira, which fell from N666/$ in mid-2023 to over N1700/$ by mid-2024.
This depreciation, he noted,
inflated the costs of imported raw materials and machinery and worsened the already strained profitability of manufacturers.
He said: “Interest rates reached unprecedented levels, climbing to 27.7 per cent by November 2024. This increase substantially raised borrowing costs, making it harder for manufacturers to access financing for expansion and modernisation. The rising interest rates, combined with inflation, severely limited the potential for investment in the sector, impeding long-term growth prospects.”
Meshioye further noted that
manufacturers were hit hard with a drastic rise in electricity tariffs by over 250 per cent, which made energy costs to become one of the highest operating expenses for businesses in the sector in 2024.
“As a result, many manufacturers sought alternative energy sources, further straining their financial resources and complicating their ability to remain competitive. Consequently, it cannot be far-fetched that the sector’s struggles were reflected in its decreasing contribution to Nigeria’s GDP. Manufacturing’s share of the economy dropped significantly from 16.04 per cent
in Q4 2023 to 12.68 per cent in Q2 2024, indicating a contraction in economic activity within the sector. The combination of high operational costs, reduced consumer demand, and limited access to finance contributed majorly to this decline,” he said. The MAN boss, however, was optimistic that interest rate would begin to ease in 2025 because only a favorable interest rate environment would help manufacturers to access the necessary financing to reinvest and drive productivity.
nOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com nOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
Dike Onwuamaeze
Kola Adesina: Honour to Whom It’s Due!
Board Chairman, Ikeja Electric, Dr. Kola Adesina’s honourary doctorate, bestowed on him recently by the UNILAG leadership, was just as earned. Olawale Olaleye writes
“This accolade serves as a fitting acknowledgment of your outstanding achievements and your continued efforts to elevate the standards of engineering and innovation in Nigeria.”
The quote above was contained in a letter by President Bola Tinubu to Dr. Kola Adesina, the Board Chairman, Ikeja Electric, congratulating him on the conferment of an honourary doctoral degree by the Governing Council and Management of the University of Lagos, UNILAG.
Dr. Adesina, a businessman and serial entrepreneur, is one of the few persons, who truly embodies the Nigerian story and her scenic dreams. His “I can do” spirit and unceasing push for the good of humanity, in spite of the inherent challenges, are some of the things that cast him a peculiar class.
His recognition for a doctorate by the UNILAG authorities during her 55th convocation ceremony, although an honour, was undisputedly earned by this hard-working Nigerian, whose rise to prominence, has been steady, yet organic.
Many miles away from the category of persons often tagged by the Nigerian masses as the “federal government pikins”, Adesina functions largely on the principles of self-worth, honour, self-preservation and respect.
These, perhaps, explain why he has maintained and kept his clean sheet some distance away from any form of blemishes. He’s never claimed
to be infallible or boasted as savouring some preternatural privileges. He’s, however, minded his steps and choices very carefully and at each given time.
Beyond and above all contemplations, Adesina’s true honour is not ensconced in titles or public display of affluence and influence, but in the dignity he embodies as his own person at all times.
Honoured alongside some other equally distinguished Nigerians like Mr. Fola Adeola, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Professor Olukayode Amund, Professor Babajide Ibitayo and Professor Victor Chiagozie Ariole, the inclusion of Adesina, cuts and hits differently, even though UNILAG recognises that they’ve all made exceptional contributions to the social unit called Nigeria.
In his letter of congratulations, dated January 15th 2025, President Tinubu situated the justification for the honour better, when he wrote: “Your visionary leadership at Sahara power Group and your unwavering dedication to ensuring sustainable power solutions have not only strengthened Nigeria’s energy sector but also inspired countless professionals to pursue excellence.”
The president went on to add: “The conferment of this honourary degree is a celebration of your tireless work ethic, professional accomplishments and commitment to social impact. It underscores the pivotal role you play in driving transformative change within the nation and beyond.”
Concluding, therefore, Tinubu, who urged to Adesina to “…know that your contributions remain deeply valued by the government and people of Nigeria,” encouraged him to continue to serve as a beacon of hope, innovation and inspiration for the future generation.
Taken together, his last line, “inspiration for the future generation” summarises why the honour on Adesina, indeed, cuts differently. With a lifestyle that is pleasing to God and enviable to man, there could not have been a better role model for the burgeoning impressionable generation.
Self-effacing and naturally unassuming, Adesina is a man, who treads cautiously in all he does, including carefully choosing his words in every engagement – formal
or not. His habitual disposition to building safety into his assumptions further justifies his successes across the complex business stretch.
Born August 12, 1964, Adesina, the Managing Director of Sahara Group, and former chairman of Egbin Power Plc, is at the moment the board chairman of Ikeja Electric.
With a B.sc in Insurance and M.Sc in Business from UNILAG, including several executive programmes atHarvard Business School and The Wharton School Advanced Management Programme, Adesina, has through his streak of successes in business, merited his place in Nigeria’s political economy.
Adesina, who started his career in the insurance industry,before joining Sahara Group, possessed some incredible skills set that helped him to move rapidly up the ladder, including leading various projects like the nationwide strategic management of the supply chain of fuel to the emergency power plant of the defunct National Electricity Power Authority, NEPA.
He also led the Majestic Oil delegation on the acquisition of the Sierra Leone Refinery and managed the crude oil contract of the group in Côte d’Ivoire, where he was the director of infrastructure, in charge of the acquisition of strategic assets in Africa.
A member of the Presidential Committee on the Accelerated Expansion of the Electricity Infrastructure in Nigeria under former President Goodluck Jonathan, which led to the unbundling of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), Adesina is evidently not done yet.
Beyond and above all contemplations, Adesina’s true honour is not ensconced in titles or public display of affluence and influence, but in the dignity he embodies as his own person at all times.
Whether at work or social gatherings, there’s a glittering self-esteem, decency, and happy-to-die-for personality that constantly encircles his carriage. He does not feign this or tinker with the optics thereof. It is just in him as a modest man of class.
Lokpobiri: Africa Contributes Just 3% to Global Emissions, Time for Mere Dialogue Over
Stories
by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has reiterated that Africa contributes a meagre 3 per cent to global emissions, noting that the time for mere dialogue without concrete action is over.
Lokpobiri spoke at the just concluded World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland,where he participated in several of the
sessions that convened global leaders and industry players to address critical global and regional challenges.
The minister said in Abuja that the sessions provided a platform to engage on issues central to Africa’s development and the global energy transition.
“I called for greater international support, noting Africa’s minimal contribution of 3 per cent to global emissions and stressing that the time for mere dialogue has passed. As we look ahead,
Oil Slips asTrump Calls on OPEC to Cut Prices
Oil prices slipped yesterday after United States President, Donald Trump, called on members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to reduce prices following the announcement of wide-ranging measures to boost US oil and gas output in his first week in office.
Nigeria’s benchmark, Brent crude futures, dropped 53 cents, or 0.68 per cent, to $77.97 a barrel after settling up 21 cents on Friday.
Besides, US West Texas Intermediate crude was at $74.16 a barrel, down 50 cents, or 0.67 per cent. Trump on Friday reiterated his call for OPEC to cut oil prices to hurt oil-rich Russia’s finances and help bring an end to the war in Ukraine.
“One way to stop it quickly is for OPEC to stop making so much money and drop the price of oil ... That war will stop right away,” Trump said.
Trump has also threatened to hit Russia “and other participating countries” with taxes, tariffs and sanctions if a deal to end the war in Ukraine is not struck soon,
Reuters reported.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the weekend that he and Trump should meet to talk about the Ukraine war and energy prices.
However, OPEC and its allies, including Russia have yet to react to Trump’s call to cut prices, with OPEC+ delegates pointing to a plan already in place to start raising oil output from April.
Both benchmarks posted their first decline in five weeks last week as concerns eased about sanctions on Russia disrupting supplies.
Goldman Sachs analysts said they do not expect a big hit to Russian production as higher freight rates have incentivised higher supply of non-sanctioned ships to move Russian oil while the deepening in the discount on the affected Russian grade attracts price-sensitive buyers to keep purchasing the oil.
Still, JP Morgan analysts said some risk premium is justified given that nearly 20 per cent of the global Aframax fleet currently faces sanctions.
I urged that by the next WEF in 2026, our collective focus should be a review of executed actionable measures that drive visible growth in Nigeria, Africa, and globally.
The foundation has been laid; now, it is time to build,” the minister added.
According to him, another key discussion was Africa’s momentum, which examined the impact of the African
Union’s 2023 admission as a permanent member of the G20 and Africa’s push for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
On his contribution to the dialogue, the minister said he emphasised the need for strategic funding to enable Nigeria and Africa to harness their vast mineral resources and tackle persistent energy deficiencies.
“In the session on Powering Progress: Financing the Energy Transition, I highlighted actionable solutions needed to unlock market forces and strengthen the business case for a global energy transition.
“ We explored best practices for mobilising public and private capital, emphasising that Nigeria and indeed, Africa’s transition must align with its development priorities,” he
added. During the Leaders for a Sustainable MENA session, which focused on climate, AI, and finance in the MENA region - a grouping of Middle Eastern and North African countries, the minister stated that innovative partnerships and pathways for collaboration between international and regional stakeholders were discussed.
Surveyor General: $230,000 Needed to Acquire Modern Mapping Server
The Surveyor General of the Federation (SGOF), Abuduganiyu Adebomehin, has said that Nigeria will need to invest $230,000 on a geospatial server to properly map the country.
Stressing that this will put the country in charge of its own affairs, Adebomehin explained that the last topographical map of the flying map of Nigeria was carried out by the Canadian government
between 1966 and 1970.
The Surveyor General spoke in his office in Abuja at the weekend, according to a statement by the Head of Information and Public Relations in his office, Henry David.
He said: “The last topographical map of flying of Nigeria was carried out by the Canadian government between 1966 and 1970. There has never been any other mapping of
the country as a whole.
“So there is a need for us as Nigerians to be in charge of our affairs. Then it means we need to properly map Nigeria. Another thing is, looking at the geospatial sector that we are in right now, there’s a need to change our server. It was acquired about 30 years ago and there’s a need to change that server. When you are talking about the server, a modern day server goes for as
much as $220,000 or $230,000. We have the personnel we have trained on ground. The data has to be on the server. And such data cuts across some government agencies and for decision taking.”
Also, he explained that some areas in the country were prone to earthquakes, citing the case of an area in Abuja popularly known as Mpape, where there was a mild shaking of the earth.
FG, REDAN Plan 10,000 Housing Units for Medical Workers Nationwide
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development in collaboration with the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) have disclosed plans to construct 10,000 housing units of Renewed Hope Medic Cities across the country to meet the housing needs of the nation’s medical workers.
Housing Minister, Ahmed Dangiwa, disclosed the plan during his meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), in Abuja, a statement
from the ministry said.
“Housing is a fundamental need that directly impacts productivity, stability, and quality of life. We recognise the difficulties many healthcare workers face in securing suitable accommodation, particularly in high-demand urban centers where medical facilities are concentrated.
“Addressing these challenges requires strong partnerships between the government and professional bodies like yours”, he added.
Speaking earlier, National
President, NARD, Dr. Tope Osundara, emphasised the importance of the resident doctors to the nation’s health care system, and appealed to the minister to assist the association to key into the ongoing programme.
Osundara informed that the association was proposing a 1000 housing unit under phase one for a start in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which would serve as a template and encourage other members of the association across the states to key in.
Also speaking, the
representative of REDAN and a member of NARD, Dr. Suleiman Sadiq explained that the Medic Cities project for the health workers would be a partnership between the ministries of housing and health, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and a public private partnership arrangement. According to him, the housing construction which is expected to commence across the country between January and February 2025, aims to build 10,000 housing units across the mation.
Adesina
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 24 January-2025, unless otherwise stated.
Vetiva Dollar Fixed Income Fund to Offer Competitive Returns to Investors
Kayode Tokede
Vetiva Fund Managers Limited has announced the launch of the Vetiva USD Fixed Income Fund (VUFI), a dollar-denominated investment designed to provide accessibility, liquidity, and diversification benefits to investors while providing a competitive USD return.
Tailored for individuals and institutional investors, VUFI, the company said, is an ideal investment vehicle for those seeking consistent returns and capital appreciation opportunities in today’s dynamic economic environment.
“The Vetiva Dollar Fixed Income Fund focuses on highquality, dollar-denominated fixed-income and money market securities, like Nigerian Sovereign Eurobonds, Corporate Eurobonds, Multilateral Eurobonds, Dollar Denominated commercial papers, certificate of deposits, fixed
deposits issued by banks and other financial institutions and other short-term USD money market instruments introduced and approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from time to time.
By leveraging the expertise of Vetiva’s experienced portfolio managers, the Fund seeks to deliver competitive returns within an acceptable level of investment risk in the medium to long term through investments in US dollar-denominated fixed-income assets. We are thrilled to introduce the Vetiva USD Fixed Income Fund, which reflects our commitment to empowering clients with dependable investment options in an ever-evolving financial landscape.” said Managing Director of Vetiva Fund Managers Limited, Mrs Oyelade Eigbe.
“This Fund provides a prudent solution for investors seeking to grow their funds
in USD while generating a steady income. Amid global economic uncertainty and heightened market fluctuations, the demand for secure and profitable investments that provide a buffer against Naira devaluation is growing.
The Vetiva USD Fixed Income Fund offers this opportunity to investors. With increased volatility in the global markets, investors are prioritizing safe and diversified investment options.” said Head of Equities Research, at Vetiva Capital Management Limited, Victoria Ejugwu.
Ejugwu said, “This Fund is thoughtfully designed to provide consistent dollarbased income with capital appreciation opportunities, meeting the diverse needs of our clientele. Key benefits of the VUFI include diversification, professional management, liquidity, accessibility, economies of scale and consistent Income.”
Marble Halal Ethical Funds Record Impressive Growth
Marble Halal Capital, a leading provider of Shariahcompliant investment solution has announced impressive performance of its funds for the year 2024.
The Marble Halal Commodities Fund, the company said in a statement, achieved a remarkable growth rate of 35.60 per cent as of December 31st, 2024, solidifying its position as a competitive player in the Nigerian Commodities market.
“This outstanding performance makes MHCF an attractive choice for investors seeking to ethically invest in the commodities sector. In addition, the Marble Halal Fixed Income Fund (MHFIF), launched on August 28, 2023, delivered a return of 11.54 per cent for the year 2024. As a low-risk
investment solution, MHFIF prioritizes capital preservation and steady income, investing predominantly in Shariah-compliant fixed-income instruments such as Sukuk, non-interest commercial papers (NICPs), and ethical debt instruments.
“We are thrilled with the impressive performance of our funds in 2024. Our commitment to providing innovative, Shariah-compliant investment solutions has resonated with investors seeking ethical and competitive returns. We look forward to continuing to deliver value to our investors in the years to come,” said Marble Capital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Akeem Oyewale.
Commenting on the funds, the head of Asset Management,
Busola Kuku, explained that both funds are very accessible to a broad range of investors, given the minimum amount required.
“For instance, the marble halal commodities fund requires a minimum investment of N50,000, with N10,000 on subsequent subscriptions, making it accessible to a wide range of investors from retail to high-net-worth individuals.
“ Similarly, entry into the Marble Halal Fixed Income Fund requires a minimum investment of N10,000, making it accessible to a broad range of investors. Despite its focus on preservation, the MHFIF remains a secure and ethical choice for risk-averse investors seeking income stability,” said Kuku.
GDM Embarks on Strategic Expansion
Mary Nnah
In a move set to disrupt the status quo, GDM Group, Nigeria’s premier marketing and media technology powerhouse, has marked 15 transformative years of trailblazing innovation, solidifying its position as a leader in Africa’s marketing and technology landscape.
With a bold expansion strategy, GDM Group has redefined itself as a full-fledged marketing, management, and technology innovation firm, poised to empower brands to connect, serve, and grow their
audiences with unparalleled efficiency.
This strategic move is expected to send shockwaves across the industry, as GDM Group’s cutting-edge solutions in marketing technology, big data management, and integrated marketing services raise the bar for marketing excellence in Africa.
“GDM Group’s evolution is a game-changer for Africa’s marketing landscape,” noted Victor Afolabi, Founder and Group CEO of Hazon Holdings.
“We’re not just celebrating
15 years of innovation; we’re ushering in a new era of marketing excellence, where brands can thrive and audiences can connect like never before.”
As GDM Group embarks on its next chapter, its vision remains crystal clear: to redefine the future of marketing in Africa. With operations spanning Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Kenya, GDM Group is poised to continue its panAfrican expansion, leveraging its dynamic, localized business model to address the unique challenges and opportunities of each market.
JMG Celebrates International Day of Clean Energy
JMG Limited, a premier provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria, joins the world in celebrating this year’s International Day of Clean Energy, which promotes the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
Observed annually on 26th January, the global event was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a call to raise awareness and mobilize action for a just and inclusive
transition to clean energy for the benefit of people and the planet.
Marking this year’s event, JMG Limited, a leading company that caters to a wide array of business and industrial requirements, reaffirms its commitment to meeting the needs of its customers through solutions that add value to their operations and the society.
The Company’s Group General Manager, Rabi Jammal, stated that com -
memorating the global day is crucial as it inspires individuals, communities, businesses, and governments to adopt sustainable energy solutions and their attendant economic and social benefits.
He said this helps to foster environment conservation and palliate the crisis with non-renewable fuels, such as gas and oil, which aligns with what JMG’s product offerings enable.
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
Market Cap Adds N795bn on Buy Interest in Banking Stocks
Kayode Tokede
The stock market yesterday commenced the new week in positive note, driven largely by investors renewed sentiment towards the banking stocks on the back of positive recapitalisation recorded so far by listed financial institutions.
Against this backdrop, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) rose by 820.65 basis or 0.79 per cent, to close at 104,418.95
basis points. Similarly, the overall market capitalisation value gained N795 billion to close at N64.440 trillion.
Analysing by sectors, the NGX Banking Index advanced by 4.7per cent and NGX Consumer Goods Index gained 1.7per cent, while the NGX Insurance index depreciated by one per cent and NGXOil & Gas dipped by 0.9 per cent. The NGX Industrial Goods index closed flat.
Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed
positive as 38 stocks advanced while 30 declined. Beta Glass recorded the highest price gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N65.00, per share. RT Briscoe Nigeria followed with a gain of 9.92 per cent to close at N2.77, while Access Holdings rose by 9.88 per cent to close at N27.80, per share.
Chellarams appreciated by 9.83 per cent to close at N4.47, while Skyway Aviation Handling Company rose by 9.80 per cent to close at N36.40,
per share.
On the other hand, MRS Oil Nigeria led the losers’ chart by 10 per cent to close at N180.90, per share. Transcorp Hotels followed with a decline of 9.97 per cent to close at N114.65, while Eunisell Interlinked shed 9.95 per cent to close at N11.40, per share.
John Holt depreciated by 9.64 per cent to close at N7.50, while Caverton Offshore Support Group dropped by 9.40 per cent to close at N2.12, per share.
Meanwhile, the total volume of trade declined by 10.1 per cent to 518.276 million units, valued at N13.299 billion, and exchanged in 17,196 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings topped the activity chart with 50.992 million shares valued at N1.377 billion. FCMB Group followed with 40.260 million shares worth N471.484 million, while Sterling Financial Holdings Company traded 38.902 million shares valued at N232.736 million.
Looking forward, United Capital Plc said “the equities market is expected to maintain its positive momentum as investors continue to position themselves ahead of the full year 2024 earnings season and possible corporate action declarations.
INTERVIEW
Abdullahi Hashim: Nigeria’s Tax System Archaic, Needs Reworking
Mr Abdullahi Hashim, an engineer, is the Managing Director of Cubical Vertex Solutions Limited. He worked under the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, driving the Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) activities of those administrations. In this interview, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) member says President Bola Tinubu is on the right path in his bid to push through the current tax reforms bills, but that the government needs to carry out more public enlightenment. Emmanuel Addeh presents the excerpts.
What is your take on the tax reform bills and what’s the way forward?
The tax reform bills are among the most ambitious I have ever seen. For example, even Singapore implemented reforms to its tax process as far back as 2023. So, it’s a global thing. Even the Organisation of Economic Co-operation Development (OECD), with a membership strength of 38 countries carried out tax reforms. They also adopted certain policies similar to what Mr President did. It is not peculiar to Nigeria. If you look at the system, we have been using an archaic tax system. These bills provide an opportunity to improve and upgrade our existing system, and we have to contextualise it with realities on the ground.
It has to be in tandem with global practice. If you examine the post-COVID-19 experience, the aging population, and the overriding expansion of technology, there is a need to upgrade our tax laws. So, what I advocate is nothing but a consensus. It is a very wonderful thing, but the consensus is what will move the country forward. Based on what the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has adopted, there will be a positive change.
Do you agree with the NGF’s proposals?
The proposal means a paradigm shift in policy and administration. They have to vent their perspective based on their local realities so that they will see it as a positive change for their people since they are also elected by the people. They have to inspire their people; they have to bring their yearnings to the federal level.
Do you think the new proposal by the governors is realistic or fairer?
Well, it is open for debate. There must be an equilibrium point where they will come to an understanding.
Would you suggest we work with the governors’ proposal?
Whatever we have as a policy, we need to contextualise it to suit our local content and the reality in Nigeria, so that common people will not be shortchanged. That is my perspective. What I mean by reality is the purchasing power and economic leakages. For instance, let’s talk about local petroleum consumption.
Some of the figures I got, I think 15.6 million litres of petrol are being smuggled out. So, that will affect Nigeria’s internal consumption. Since the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) mentioned that the internal consumption is 64.14 million litres per day, now you remove 15.6 million.
That would have an effect. When you talk about tax concession, some businesses have to be adopted for tax concession so that they will not be exempted, but they will be given tax waivers for a certain period for road construction, maybe expansion of certain bridges and other stuff like that. Instead of paying the tax to the government, certain infrastructure may need to be delivered across the corridors of their businesses. So, maybe they will make that concession so that they will help the businesses to run better.
How would you rate the level of public awareness of the tax reform bills and what should be done to resolve resistance?
The level of awareness is low and you can believe that. People don’t even know about the tax reform, not to talk about the details. The bill is over 400 pages long. Who has the time to read them when Nigeria is battling an increase in fuel pump prices, ballooning hardship and
other stuff like that? So, people don’t even have time to read.
The majority of those who have time to read have an interest in the bills. They play around it, you know, to suit their interest. And this thing is beyond personal interest. It’s talking about over 200 million people. The government should do more because the enlightenment is not there.
Critics are saying the bills will favour only Lagos State.. Who is saying that? How is that possible? They simply want to discredit the efforts of Mr President. But Mr President brought this particular policy, not because he wants to make Nigerians poor. He wants to raise the capacity of Nigerians. He wants to reduce the enslavement of Nigerians by politicians. He wants to make people independent and set them free.
Do you believe the inauguration of the Port-Harcourt and the Warri refineries are notable milestones in Nigeria’s quest for increased local refining capacity?
Yes. It is worth celebrating because the past leadership did not make it happen. They even thought it was not going to happen. But under
this administration, we have to appreciate it. Apart from the government refineries that are kicking up, even private refineries are starting operations. Dangote Refinery is already in operation. Also, BUA (refinery) is almost 70 per cent completed.
Should we sell off the refineries for optimum efficiency?
Yes, operation and maintenance under the private sector are one of the best things because every private person who invests a single penny inside any business wants a return on it. So, he will not play with the business. He will maintain it. And if you look at all the developed countries, they are all making concessions and Public-Private partnerships, which is a very good way to go.
Recently, Aliko Dangote said Nigeria should not import petrol because he feels his refinery could meet local consumption. What’s your take?
My take is that you can’t control the economy without allowing some flexibility. Dangote has the second-largest refinery in the world. So, I think he’s talking about his capacity. But in terms of Nigeria, there must be some flexibility,
it shouldn’t be limited to a particular company. That’s my concern.
As a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering (COREN), what is being done to address the plague of building collapse?
There are policies which are not being implemented. The issue is that people would just call a foreman to build a house without taking into cognisance the stipulated rules and standards. I would say the challenge is the non-enforcement of the laws. And maybe defaulters should be sanctioned so that everybody can sit up, from the client to contractors to the engineers.
How do we deal with the use of substandard materials?
There should be a collaboration between the Standard Organisation of Nigeria and the Consumer Protection Agency. It’s very important and vital. They should link up with all the professional bodies like the Nigerian Institute of Civil Engineers and COREN to talk about this. NBBRI is also very pivotal in terms of testing material. They have a very big lab for testing material and standard material requirements. We need to know the quality of the material that suits our nation.
How frequently does COREN engage with the federal government to address housing challenges in the country?
Most of the members at the high level of COREN are also high-level politicians, who are also part of the government. So there is some interaction between COREN and the government, but from what I know, it happens mainly during events like the Annual General Meeting. COREN is a government-owned institution, unlike NSE, which is a society. While there is some level of relationship, it’s not as robust or consistent as it should be. For example, during one AGM, I told them they needed to establish a proper system for interfacing with the government. This involves identifying key players in the government and understanding what they want. Even in countries like America, you have lobbyist banks. What do they do? They study systems, understand people, and approach them strategically. They (COREN) were complaining that they had a lot of strategies that were not implemented. I told them, ‘Look, you need to approach them on the terms they would understand.’ You know, all politicians need win-win situations. How do you approach politicians? You approach them with what they know so that your result will be quick.
Do you think houses or buildings are overpriced in Nigeria?
Yes, I agree. I think they are overpriced and the market needs to be checked. As I mentioned, the consumer protection agency must work on this. With the rising population and rising cost of materials, housing has become very difficult to build. One of the buildings I supervised was five or six stand-alone houses in Katampe (Abuja). Initially, they were selling the house at N200 million, but now it is N860 million.
What should be the priority of this government? Is it just about raising tax revenues or raising productivity? I go with raising productivity. Because if you stimulate productivity, it will bring more revenue. And it will bring more reward. And even the tax will be accommodated. But if you do otherwise, then that means it’s not going to be sustainable.
Abdullahi Hashim
FAREWELL
RECEPTION IN HONOUR
OF THE RETIRING MANAGING DIRECTOR OF WEMABOD...
Sterling Bank Petitions IGP Over Court Ruling Violation
Condemns exploitation of National Assembly, Police Force CID
Nume Ekeghe
Sterling Bank Limited has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to intervene in what it describes as a calculated campaign of harassment and legal manipulation orchestrated by Miden Systems Ltd and its director, Dr. Brendan Innocent Usoro.
The bank accused the debtor of exploiting the National Assembly and the Police Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to
avoid complying with a binding court-ordered debt settlement, characterising these actions as a direct assault on the judiciary and the principles of justice.
In a statement issued by its Chief Marketing Officer, Mr. Maurice Igugu, Sterling Bank condemned Miden Systems Ltd's actions, alleging a deliberate effort to defy the rule of law and undermine judicial authority. This follows a Federal High Court
ruling on October 18, 2021, which found Miden Systems Ltd liable for significant outstanding debts and ordered compliance with agreed settlement terms.
Despite the clarity of the judgment and the debtor’s acknowledgment of the obligations, the company and its director have allegedly engaged in a calculated pattern of non-compliance, including the misappropriation of loan funds, restructuring of corporate
ownership to obscure assets, and the misuse of legal processes to delay enforcement.
The bank’s petition, filed through its legal counsel, Kunle Ogunba, SAN, outlines serious allegations against Miden Systems Ltd and its director, including financial misconduct, diversion of funds for personal use, and attempts to intimidate Sterling Bank officials.
The petition further highlighted how Dr. Usoro has allegedly
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has approved the naming of some old and new legacy projects in the state after important figures and leaders.
Topping the list was First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, after whom the multibillion-naira Civil Service Clinic project was named.
The old clinic was being reconstructed from scratch to emerge as a multi-storey health facility.
Mrs. Tinubu will perform the ground-breaking ceremony of the huge project as part of her official visit to Kwara State between January 28 and 30.
A statement issued in Ilorin by the governor, which was signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, on Monday, stated, "Along with the ICT Centre built under the Renewed Hope Initiative of her office at the Kwara State University of Education, the wife of the president will also inaugurate a few legacy projects of the governor, such as the Unity Flyover, ultramodern Intensive Care Unit, Executive Ward, and Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, earlier named after the late leader and disciplinarian.”
The statement added, "The road leading to the flyover is now to be called the Tafawa Balewa Road, a gesture in honour of Nigeria’s former Prime Minister."
The governor gave approval for the ICT Centre to be named after former Minister Amina Ndalolo, a jewel of Kwara North, while the executive ward at the Kwara State Teaching Hospital was named after the late prominent physician and politician, Dr. Amuda Aluko. The first state secretariat was now to be called the Brigadier General David Bamigboye Secretariat in honour of the first military administrator of the old Kwara State, while the new secretariat was named after Rear Admiral Muhammed Alabi Lawal who governed the state between 1999 and 2003.
Kwara State Stadium Complex will now be known as MajorGeneral George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex in appreciation of his contributions to the state.
The main bowl of the stadium was named after the late Rashidi Yekini, a football legend renowned for scoring Nigeria’s first World Cup goal and the country’s highest goal scorer till date. Abdulrazaq similarly approved for some other important state facilities to be named as follows:
Table Tennis Arena named after Atanda Musa (Manza Musa), who was a national champion in the games in 1979; Indoor Sports Hall was named after Gabriel Babatunde Ladipo, the first black principal of Government Technical Training School (GTTS), Ilorin, who was regarded as the father of sports in the state.
Others included the Squash
leveraged political connections to obstruct justice, resorting to harassment and intimidation through proxies, including the misuse of law enforcement agencies.
The bank called on the IGP to investigate these issues and uphold the rule of law.
Sterling Bank expressed additional concern over efforts by the debtor to manipulate public institutions, citing a petition submitted to the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions.
This petition accused Sterling Bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and Shell Petroleum of fraudulent practices.
Sterling Bank asserted that this was a baseless attempt to distract from the debtor’s refusal to honor financial obligations.
Systems Ltd seeking to overturn the original judgment further validates the bank’s position.
The court cited abuse of process, reaffirming the binding nature of the consent judgment and the debtor’s obligations.
Sterling Bank described the ruling as a significant affirmation of justice and accountability, underscoring the impropriety of the debtor’s actions.
Sterling Bank urged stakeholders, customers, and the public to disregard the unsubstantiated accusations leveled against it and to recognize the debtor’s actions as a diversionary tactic designed to evade financial and legal responsibilities.
Hostel A of the stadium was named after Salihu Ishola, the first Kwaran commonwealth games’ medalist; Hostel B named after Paralympic badminton bronze medallist Bolaji Eniola; and Hostel C was named after Bola Esan, the first female director of sports.
Court named after Coach Bolakale Mogaji, executive chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, who was the pioneer coach, player, and national champion in the squash game; KFA Academy named after Coach Usuman Adenuja, the first football coach, who took the Kwara Academicals to the final of Academicals football competition. The governor was among its products.
The bank emphasized that all actions taken on the account in question were executed in strict adherence to the consent judgment issued by the Federal High Court, a judgment that was mutually agreed upon by both parties.
The recent dismissal by the Federal High Court on November 20, 2024, of an application by Miden
The bank reiterated its unwavering commitment to integrity, justice, and the protection of its customers’ interests, highlighting its continued role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s financial system and a leader in sustainable development through its focus on the HEART sectors (Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation). Despite these challenges, Sterling Bank remains steadfast in upholding the principles of accountability and justice.
KACRAN Appeals to NEDC to Sustain Efforts in Promoting Livestock, North East Regional Devt
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers’ Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has appealed to the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to continue its commendable initiatives aimed at advancing the livestock sector and fostering general development in the region.
KACRAN, which was established with the aim of minimizing conflicts between herders and farmers, and dedicated to promoting peace and unity across Nigeria, striving to protect the interests of Nigeria’s pastoralists, who often face challenges in accessing social services due to their nomadic lifestyle.
The association also advocated the inclusion of pastoralists in government policies and programmes, ensuring they benefit from the nation's democratic advancements.
In a statement on Monday, the association commended the NEDC for its continued efforts in enhancing the livestock sector and regional development.
KACRAN stated that its appeal to NEDC is based on several key points, including: “Inclusive Governance: The NEDC has consistently demonstrated its commitment to all communities in the region, regardless of state, tribe, religion, or political affiliation. Its leadership under Managing Director Alhaji Mohammed Alkali and Director of Finance and Administration Dr. Garba Iliya has been instrumental in achieving these goals.
“Support for Peace and Security: The Commission actively collaborates with local governments and security agencies to restore peace and stability in the region, which is crucial for the development of all communities.
“Exemplary Performance: The NEDC stands out as one of the most effective development commissions in Nigeria. Its success has inspired calls for similar commissions in other regions, showcasing the positive impact of its initiatives.
“Disaster Response and Reconstruction: The NEDC has played a vital role in addressing crises, such as the Maiduguri water flood, and has been involved in the renovation and rebuilding of schools, hospitals, roads, and bridges. These efforts reflect the Commission's commitment to improving the welfare of the region’s inhabitants.
“Community Support Initiatives: The Commission’s distribution of palliative aid to both Christian and Muslim communities during festive periods exemplifies its dedication to equitable support for all citizens.
“Inclusion of Pastoralists: The NEDC’s policies include provisions for pastoralists, such as the establishment of water points and distribution of palliatives, underscoring its commitment to serving all segments of society.”
The statement added that:
“Given the NEDC's outstanding achievements and its readiness to tackle emerging challenges, KACRAN passionately appeals to the National Assembly members to provide adequate financial support to the Commission.
“This support is essential for sustaining its development efforts and addressing the new security challenges in the region.
“In conclusion, KACRAN encourages newly established development commissions across the country to look to the NEDC as a model for effective governance and regional development.”
L-R: Director, Odu'a lnvestment Company Limited, Otunba Lai Oriowo; Group Chairman, Odua Investment Ltd, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru; Celebrant/former Managing Diredtor, Wemabod Limited, Mr. Yemi Ejidiran; his wife, Yemisi and Director, Odu'a lnvestment Ltd, Mr. Seni Adio during a farewell reception in honour of the retiring Managing Director of Wemabod Limited, Mr. Oluyemi Ejidiran in Lagos...weekend.
PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
INAUGURAL ECONOMY BUSINESS NETWORK WORKSHOP...
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget (MEPB), Mrs. Olayinka Ojo; Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu, MEPB, Mr. Lekan Balogun; his counterpart for Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE), Mrs. Titi Oshodi; and Financial Advisory, Deloitte, Temitope Olugbile, during the inaugural Economy Business Network (EBN) workshop for over 500 ecoenterprises, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser - OCCE, held in Alausa, Ikeja recently
Ighodalo Files N500m Defamatory Suit Against Edo APC Chair, Jarret Tenebe
Demands retraction, letter of apology
Wale Igbintade
The candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last Edo State governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has filed a defamatory suit seeking N500 million in damages against the acting chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Jarret Tenebe.
In the writ of summons marked: LD/ADR/5731/2025 and filed at the High Court of Lagos, Ighodalo also sought for a declaration that all the statements
made by the defendant (Tenebe) in the defamatory video published and circulated online on December 10, 2024, amounted to defamation.
Ighodalo prayed the court to order Tenebe to issue a letter of apology to him within seven days of the delivery of judgement.
Akpabio Faults Service Elongation by National Assembly Staff
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has faulted the practice by some top bureaucrats in the National Assembly to remain in office after the expiration of their years of service.
He has therefore called on the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), to use the powers conferred on it by extant act and root out such bureaucrats from service without any further delay.
Akpabio stated this yesterday when he had in audience, outgoing chairman and members of the National Assembly Service Commission in his office.
He said: "Mr. Chairman and members of the National Assembly Service Commission, your visit to me today, for formal notification of the end of your tenure is one of mixed feelings.
"Mixed feelings in the sense that it is sad to miss a very experienced hand like you but at the same time, happy that you ended well after five years in office.
"However, since you are handing over to the Secretary of the Commission, pending the time myself and the Hon. Speaker of the House of Representatives, will make recommendations for new chairman and members, lapses observed within the last few years must be tabled.
"One of such lapses is the reluctance of some clerks to exit office at the expiration of their years of service and even lethargy on the part of the commission to ensure enforcement at the appropriate time against such elongated service-seeking bureaucrats.
"Tolerating such behaviour or acts from the sit-tight bureaucrats by NASC brought unnecessary politics into the system with its attendant factionalisation of the Parliamentary
Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN).
“There are even threats by some people to take the leadership of the National Assembly to ' Berekete Radio ' otherwise called Human Rights Radio, forgetting that Nigeria has not established human rights radio.
"Politicization of tenure or years of service of staff of the National Assembly are due to actions and inactions of NASC which must be stopped by sticking to provisions of letters of appointments issued.
"Refusal to proceed on terminal leave by some clerks, Secretaries or Directors, are clear cases of years of service elongation, which must be enforced by NASC.
"In the light of this, amendment will be made to the establishment Act of NASC so that its secretary will work hand in hand with leadership of the National Assembly for more disciplined and service delivery system."
Other claims sought by Ighodalo included a declaration that the statements made by the defendant (Tenebe) in an interview with TMC TV/Radio on December 17, 2024, to the effect that the claimant (Ighodalo) was a thief, amounted to defamation, and an order directing the defendant (Tenebe) to retract the defamatory statements contained in the defamatory video published and circulated online as well as those on TMC TV/Radio, by publish-
ing a retraction statement on all platforms where the defamatory statements were published.
Ighodalo, a former Chairman of Sterling Bank Plc, Dangote Flour Mills Plc, and Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), had filed the suit against Tenebe for allegedly making false and damaging statements in a widely circulated video of December 10, 2024.
Ighodalo’s lawyers said, “The primary objective of procuring the publication of the defamatory
video was to tarnish our client’s reputation.
“Since the publication of the defamatory video, our client has received numerous calls from professional colleagues, business partners and other well-meaning Nigerians, locally and in the Diaspora, inquiring as to the propriety of the allegations.
“Undoubtedly, this development has exposed our client to great distress, hurt, and humiliation.”
Senator Demands Urgent Probe of Bukuma Wellhead Fire Disaster
Following the recent devastating fire outbreak at Wellhead 008 in Bukuma, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, has called for an immediate investigation into the underlining and root causes of the incident.
In a statement, she also urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and its Joint Venture partners, as well as the relevant government agencies to urgently rise to their responsibilities. These include ensuring proper maintenance of facilities, taking immediate action
Nigeria-China Partnership: 2.5 Million
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
A 2.5 million eggs per-day production poultry farm is to be built in Nigeria by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).
This is one of the major highlights of the ongoing visit led by the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe to China.
According to a statement on Monday, the delegation at a meeting with Chilwee Group scored a significant mileage during a visit to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day
production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.
The statement read: “The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has made significant strides in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting economic cooperation between Nigeria and China. Recent agreements and investments in the energy, technology, and manufacturing sectors are poised to drive Nigeria's socio-economic transformation.
“At the forefront of these developments is the agreement between the NCSP and Chilwee Group, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of cutting-edge batteries and power
storage solutions.
Underway
“This agreement is expected to enhance Nigeria's energy security, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon emissions. Chilwee Group has committed to investing in Nigeria through a multifaceted approach, including sales, manufacturing, and potentially mining raw materials for the power storage value chain.
“In addition to the agreement with Chilwee Group, the NCSP has also made significant progress in other areas. During a recent visit to China, the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe, led a delegation to the China Communications Construction
Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.
“Also, the NCSP facilitated a tripartite agreement between CPL Medical group, CSSC Haishen Medical Technology Co Ltd and China Habour Engineering Company over the renovation and upgrading of equipment in selected teaching hospitals across the country. While speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Tegbe noted that the agreement represented an example of private-sector collaboration which the partnership hopes to promote.
to extinguish the fire, conducting a thorough investigation to identify the root cause of the incident, and implementing measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The inferno, which erupted recently, has caused extensive damage and significant hardship for the local Agum Community.
Expressing her concern, Banigo who represents the Rivers West Senatorial District, and has been a vocal advocate for environmental safety and community welfare, described the incident as "unfortunate and avoidable."
According to her, she had promptly notified the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) on January 14, 2025, with a detailed incident report.
The lawmaker noted she had been duly informed that other well heads in that location are presently leaking, in addition to the Wellhead 008 that is currently on fire as this further creates serious fire threat and compounding the environmental and safety challenges faced by the Bukuma Community.
She emphasised that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and its Joint Venture partners, as well as the relevant government agencies must urgently rise to their responsibilities.
While, highlighting the importance of swift and decisive action to safeguard the lives, properties, and environment of the affected community, Banigo urged the community to be vigilant and refrain from any form of sabotage.
She applauded the swift response of the Director-General, NOSDRA, Degema Council Chairman, NNPC
team, and the Rivers State government team currently on the ground working diligently to extinguish the fire and provide relief to those affected.
Banigo also praised environmental activists and community members for their proactive use of live videos and social media platforms to raise awareness of the situation.
She added that letters of complaint from the Paramount Ruler addressed to President Bola Tinubu and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio have been received and will be delivered accordingly.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Banigo reassured the community of her tireless efforts to ensure their safety and well-being.
“This situation is unacceptable, and I will not rest until this matter is resolved, the fire extinguished, and our environment restored to a safe and conducive state,” she said.
Noting that she had already dispatched relief materials to the victims of the fire outbreak as an immediate measure to provide some level of comfort and support during this challenging time, she reassured the community that this is only the beginning, as she remains committed to doing even more to alleviate their suffering.
Banigo pledged to continue mobilising resources and collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the affected families receive the assistance they need to rebuild their lives and restore normalcy to the community. The lawmaker, however urged the residents to remain calm and patient, promising to see the matter through to resolution.
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
REAL ESTATE LAUNCH...
L-R: Group Managing Director, Nedcomoaks/Victoria Crest Homes, Dr. Kennedy Okonkwo; Socialite and Seasoned Entrepreneur, Mr. Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu and Chief Executive Officer, Nedcomoaks/ Victoria Crest Homes, Mrs. Ichechi Okonkwo, at the official launching of 3 Bedroom Semidetached Duplex, Capital Loft Estate located at Capital Gardens, Idera, Lagos...recently
Tinubu: Unity Only Formula for National Progress, Charges Leaders on Unity in Kogi
President Bola Tinubu has declared that unity was the only formula that works for national progress, urging Nigerian leaders to draw lessons from the natural confluence of River Niger and River Benue in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
Specifically, he said the confluence of the two rivers in Kogi was a metaphor for the collective strength required to navigate Nigeria’s challenges and foster unity and collaboration for the nation’s prosperity.
He spoke in Lokoja at the Kogi
Dialogue, as part of events marking Governor Ahmed Ododo’s first year in office, andwas represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
He said, “The convergence of these rivers is not just a geographical event, it is a divine lesson in strength and continuity. It symbolises the power of unity – where individual streams combine to create a force capable of shaping destinies and carving paths.
“Just as water merging with water becomes stronger, so must we as leaders and citizens merge our efforts to build a united and prosperous Nigeria.”
Tinubu praised Ododo for launch-
ing the Kogi Dialogue, describing it as “a spark of wisdom and a critical step toward fostering reconciliation and progress.”
He charged leaders at all levels to build bridges across the country, as well as prioritise dialogue as a tool for resolving differences and promoting national cohesion.
“Dialogue is not just an opportunity to air grievances. It is the true path to justice, reconciliation, and understanding. Without dialogue, history will pass us by, leaving us abandoned by time and forgotten by progress.”
The president appealed to political
and community leaders to be more amenable and unified in their support for government to create the needed environment for growth.
“Now is the time to reject division and embrace unity as the only formula that works. Chaos and discord are ladders for the self-serving, but unity is the bridge that carries us all forward.
“Kogi State stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we recognize the strength in our diversity. From the confluence of rivers to the convergence of ideas, this state symbolises what Nigeria can become when we come together with purpose
Ghana’s former Vice-President, Mahamudu Bawumia, has said the reason he conceded defeat to John Mahama during the 2024 presidential election, was to preserve national peace and stability. He also said democracy had become firmly established in Nigeria despite political challenges in recent years.
Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, faced Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) standard-bearer.
At the time of his concession, Bawumia had secured 42.64% of
the votes (738,493) while Mahama had garnered 56.39% (976,644). Final results later confirmed Mahama’s victory with 56.55% of the votes against Bawumia’s 41.6%.
Speaking at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, Bawumia explained that he chose to concede early after observing rising tensions following the election.
“By 3 am on Sunday, it was obvious from the data that my opponent, former President Mahama, had decisively won the election,” he said.
Despite believing in his chances of victory due to the government’s
record of achievements, Bawumia said vote tallies from his party confirmed Mahama’s lead before the Electoral Commission announced the official results.
Bawumia further highlighted his confidence in Ghana’s electoral process, which he said had consistently demonstrated fairness and transparency.
“I knew it would take between 48-72 hours for the electoral commission to announce the official results.
“I was cognisant of the tension and potential violence that could result if there was a long-drawn-out process of announcing the results,” he explained.
Shettima: It's Time to End Tanker Explosion in Nigeria, Condoles Enugu Government
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice-President Kashim, yesterday, commiserated with the people and government of Enugu state over the fuel tanker fire, which claimed many lives, saying it was time to put an end to avoidable tanker accidents and explosions in the country.
The fuel tanker had Saturday veered off course and burst into flames along the Ugwu-Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
In a condolence message to the families of those who lost their lives and the injured, the vice-president noted that President Bola Tinubu
was very concerned and disturbed by the incident and other tanker explosions in recent times.
“It was with a heart full of sadness that I received news of the fuel tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in Ugwu Onyeama local government area of Enugu State. I am deeply saddened that another tanker accident would lead to the loss of lives of Nigerians, leaving others injured in the gory incident.
"His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu is seriously worried by the frequency of these tanker explosion incidents on public roads and residential areas, which are ordinarily
avoidable.
“Just as he has directed the relevant agencies in his message of condolence on Sunday, I want to reassure Nigerians that the government will stop at nothing to put an end to tanker accidents on our roads."
Shettima promised that following Tinubu's directive, the government would engage relevant agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), on possible ways the road traffic authorities, as well as federal and state Transportation Ministries could cooperate to urgently forestall further tanker accidents and explosions across the country.
To prevent unrest, Bawumia announced his concession within 14 hours of polls closing, holding a press conference at 9 am the next morning.
“The people had decided and we had to respect their decision without equivocation,” he said.
and vision,” President Tinubu said.
He, however, acknowledged that though there were challenges with governance in turbulent times such as the economic pressures and security threats facing the nation, true leadership was tested in tumultuous times.
He called on the people of Kogi and Nigeria to see themselves as “threads in the intricate fabric of progress,” adding that, “Each of us has a role to play in weaving a stronger, more united nation.
“Let us ensure that personal desires do not pull against the collective current of unity and development. We cannot hope to build a stronger Nigeria if we allow division to fester at home. Leaders must rise above personal ambitions and put the welfare of the people first.”
Earlier, Ododo, thanked Tinubu and the people of the state for their support for his government since assumption a year ago, and urged them to remain committed to the growth and development of the state, leveraging the opportunities and resources available in Kogi.
The governor paid glowing tributes to the vice-president for his support and inspiration in all that his government had done since
assuming leadership about a year ago. According to him, Kogi is blessed with rich human, natural and material resources with an enviable cultural diversity that needed to be harnessed for the prosperity and transformation of the state.
Urging indigenes of the state to put Kogi first in all they do, especially in the exploitation and management of its resources, Ododo said the time was right to re-caliberate the socio-economic fortunes of the state and take the area to greater heights.
National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, applauded the cordial relationship between the current and former governors of Kogi State, noting that a healthy relationship between a predecessor and his successor was necessary for the development of the state. He urged other governors to emulate the example set by Ododo, especially in engendering development and improving party politics in the country.
Former governor of the state, Yahaya Bello, recalled the vision of the founding fathers of Kogi State, noting with satisfaction that the current administration was moving in the right direction.
FRSC Records 16.2% Reduction in Road Traffic Accidents in 2024, Says Muhammed
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Monday hinted that it recorded a total of 531 road traffic crashes nationwide as against 634 recorded in the same period in 2023 representing a 16.2% reduction.
This was even as he said that a total of 2,129 people were rescued without injuries, representing an 8.2% decrease when compared to the 2,319 rescued in the same period in 2023.
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, gave the hint during a press briefing on the “End of the Year Operation Zero Tolerance Special Patrol, 2024” at the FRSC Headquarters in Abuja.
Giving the result of the 2024 Operation Zero Tolerance Special Patrol, which was conducted from December 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the FRSC boss said the corps recorded a total of 531 crashes, 169
fatalities, 287 serious injuries, and 75 minor injuries.
According to him, “There were also five landmark crashes that defined the outcome of the number of road traffic crashes, fatalities, as well as injuries recorded.
"These were: Jing, Shendam in Plateau State on 20 December 2024 killed 11 people, Bende-Ohafia route in Abia State on 22 December 2024 killed 11 people, that of 25 December 2024 on the Kaduna-Abuja expressway that killed 8 passengers and that of Jebba, Kwara State on Thursday 26 December 2024 which claimed 30 lives as well as that of Owo-Ikare route before Ose bridge on 28 December 2024 that led to the death of 13 passengers."
He further explained that in the comparative analysis of the data obtained between 15 December 2024 to 15 January 2025, as compared with the same period last year.
He said: "The Corps recorded a total of 531 road traffic crashes
nationwide as against 634 recorded in the same period in 2023. This represents a 16.2% reduction. More so, a total of 2,129 people were rescued without injuries, representing an 8.2% decrease when compared to the 2,319 rescued in the same period in 2023.
“Meanwhile, the Corps recorded an increase in the total number of people involved, killed as well as injured. Our data showed that within the period under review, 4,586 people were involved in RTC representing a 3.1% increase by comparison with the data of the same period in 2023 which had 4,446 people involved.
“In addition, 402 people were killed in the 2024 exercise. This is against 335 recorded in 2023 signifying a 20% increase. Incidentally, within the period under review, 2,055 people were injured in both 2023 and 2024.” Giving an analysis of the Corps annual performance, the Corps Marshal said the Corps recorded a reduction in RTCs and injuries in 2024 compared to 2023.
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
COURTESY VISIT TO MR GOVERNOR...
L-R: National Youth Leader of APC, Mr. Dayo Israel as newly appointed chairman of the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, being congratulated by Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat during Mr Israel’s courtesy visit at the governor’s office, Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, ... yesterday
moves out of official residence despite initial boasting
Segun James
The new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Mojisola Meranda, yesterday, officially moved
into the office of the speaker, amid heavy security around the Assembly complex.
=This was as the ousted speaker, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa, has begun to
Illegal Stockpiling of Explosives Triggered Niger Explosion, Says Minister
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, dispatched officials of the Federal Mines Office in Niger State to the site of a recent blast for an on-the-spot assessment, alleging that illegal stockpiling of explosives triggered the explosion.
This followed reports of an explosion at a mining site in Sabon Pegi, Mashegun Local Government Area of Niger State, on Sunday.
Preliminary investigations suggested that the explosion was caused by the illegal stockpiling of explosives by one Yushua Maikampala, a resident of New Bussa.
Maikampala is believed to have been involved in purchasing and storing explosives and their accessories in a house in Sabo Pegi, Mashegun Local Government Area.
According to eyewitnesses, the explosion was triggered by an electrical spark around 7:00 am on Sunday, destroying the building where the explosives were stored and damaging approximately 20 other houses in the vicinity.
At least two fatalities have been confirmed.
The minister, however, expressed his deepest condolences to the victims, describing the incident as avoidable given the negligence surrounding the handling and illegal storage of explosives by the alleged culprit.
Alake has also directed relevant ministry officials, including the Mines Inspectorate Department, to carry out forensic analysis of soil samples collected from the blast site to determine the source of the explosives, which would guide the next course of action.
move out of the official residence of the speaker in Ikeja GRA.
=Before moving into the Speaker's office, Meranda had been presiding over the House since last week.
=She was elected on January 13, 2025 to take over from Obasa, and has been operating from the office of the deputy speaker, the position she occupied before she was elected speaker.
=Security was strengthened because
Obasa had stated he remained the speaker, until due process was followed in removing him. This, he said when addressing his supporters on Saturday.
=It was expected that, he would report at the Assembly complex yesterday to assert his authority, which could have led to a fracas between their supporters, prompting the heavy security provided on the complex.
Yesterday’s plenary was the third session presided over by Meranda since she assumed office.
Ahead of the sitting, a notice had been served by the office of the acting Clerk, Mr. Taiwo Otun, advising all staff and legislative aides of the House to come to the assembly complex with a means of identification, because anybody without a valid ID would be denied entry.
Speaking on the development,
Lagos State Commissioner of Police Mr. Ishola Olawale, noted that it was the duty of the police to maintain peace and order, outside the assembly, as well as other parts of the state. Meranda, who is the first female Speaker in Lagos, was accompanied to her new office by the principal officers and other lawmakers, who chanted, "you are a leader, you are a leader," as she was led to her new office.
Kwankwaso to FG: Stop Meddling in Kano’s Affairs
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has warned the federal government against meddling in the affairs of Kano State, especially those strictly within the jurisdiction of the state.
He also extended the advice to the police, whom he said had already been marked as a willing partner for the federal government in its habitual dabbling into the affairs of Kano State.
Kwankwaso stated this in a post on his verified Facebook handle while reacting to a security terror
Police Clarify Alleged Arrest of Chairman, Public Complaints Commission
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has dismissed as false, the alleged arrest of Chairman of the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Muhuyi Gado.
A statement by Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, further clarified that Magaji was not arrested, instead, he was invited by the police following a petition received against him.
"The Nigeria Police Force has taken note of recent claims made by Mr. Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, the Chairman of the Public Complaints
and Anti-Corruption Commission, regarding his alleged arrest by police authorities.
"We wish to clarify that Mr. Magaji was not arrested. Instead, he was invited by the Force pertaining to a petition received against him.
"On Friday, January 17, 2025, the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit received a petition against Mr. Muhuyi.
"In accordance with standard investigative protocols, he was invited to engage with police officials as part of due process in addressing the matter.
"Given his role as a public servant
and a respected individual within society, it is expected of Mr Muhuyi to cooperate with the police to ensure a proper investigation is carried out, rather than seeking to create media attention," he said.
The police spokesperson said any assertion indicating that Magaji was arrested was unfounded and misleading.
Urging the media and the public to avoid disseminating misinformation that might cause unnecessary alarm or confusion, Adejobi said the force remained committed to upholding the rule of law.
alert handed to the residents to avoid large crowds on the eve of the National Tijjaniyya Sufi Order in Kano.
He said the alert, which turned out to be false, has put the integrity of the police in doubt.
According to him, “I am concerned by a ‘terror alert’ from the Kano State Police Command on the eve of the event. This alert, not only jeopardised the success of the gathering, but put the lives of the people of the state at risk by creating palpable fear among the people of Kano, those that came
from other countries and parts of Nigeria.
“Such conduct by the police, which has already been marked as a willing partner for the federal government in its habitual dabbling into the affairs of Kano State further puts its integrity in doubt.
“Issuing a threat alert of this magnitude, which later turns out to be false sets a dangerous precedent. I am afraid that it will lead to people to be complacent in the event of a genuine threat in the future.
“Due to the international nature of the event, the conduct of the police
leadership in Kano also leaves a bad impression of the Nigeria Police Force globally.
“I urge the Police Force in Kano to be professional and avoid being identified as deeply partisan in the affairs of Kano State and in other parts of the country.
“For the umpteenth time, I also urge the Federal Government to avoid dragging itself into unpleasant situations by further putting its hands in affairs that are strictly under the jurisdiction of the good people of Kano State and its government,” Kwankwaso stated.
Police Investigate Alleged Abduction of Entire Family of Four in FCT Community
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Police Command, hascommenced investigation into the alleged abduction of an entire family in the early hours of Monday, in Kubwa, Buwari Area Council of FCT by a yet to be identified kidnappers.
The Command also stressed that their operatives have commenced a comprehensive search and rescue operation aimed at safely securing the victims and apprehending the perpetrators of this criminal act.
Assailants suspected to be kidnappers had abducted a man, his wife,
son, and two others in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
The suspected kidnappers invaded the premises of the victim at the Chikakore area of Kubwa at about 12:00 am yesterday morning, a trending report alleged.
The viral report also averred that the kidnappers, alleged to be numbering about 30 and armed with AK-47 rifles, stormed the residence of one Adefija Michael Akinropo in the community, abducting him alongside his wife, son and elder brother.
It was further learnt that the kidnappers also moved to another building housing a poultry farm and
kidnapped a man and injured his wife.
Meanwhile, the FCT Police Command, in a statement signed by spokesperson of the command, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the abduction incident, explaining that preliminary investigations revealed that seven unknown men, disguised as vigilante members and armed with machetes and sticks, attacked the residence of the victim.
She said, "On 27th January 2025, at about 1:00 A.M., the FCT Police Command received a distress call regarding a case of abduction and assault in the Chikakore community. FCT Police operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Linus Aleke in Abuja
CELEBRATING ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY...
L-R: Kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo; Kogi state Deputy governor, Comrade. Joel Salifu; (behind), Vice President Kashim Shettima; member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency of Lagos state, Honourable. James Abiodun Faleke; (behind VP) during the celebration of the first anniversary in office of the Kogi state Governor in Lokoja.. yesterday
Atiku: Nigeria's Democracy at Crossroads
behalf titled, ''Party Politics and Political Integrity: The Role of Political Parties and Opposition in Democracy” by Prof. Bayo Olukoshi at the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in
Nigeria, he said what is happening in Nigeria is capable of eroding democracy in the country.
According to Atiku, "There’s no doubt that our democracy is at a crossroads. Put simply, it is at the
risk of eroding completely. And it is not caused by one single person or one single administration.
“In fact, a number of us have been warning over the years that we may come to this pass if we
EU Envoy Advises ECOWAS to Learn from Brexit to Address Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Head of European Delegation to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ambassador Gautier Mignot, has asked the West African regional bloc to learn from Brexit by evolving a new way of managing its relationship with the departing member countries, the Alliance of Sahel States, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.
Mignot, while revealing that the EU was not in support of ECOWAS splitting, insisted that regionalism was the path to prosperity and stability.
The envoy, who gave the suggestion in Abuja yesterday during a media parley, described the decision by the three countries as regrettable.
“It is a decision that we regret, because we support very much West African integration. We ourselves probably the most autonomous model of regional integration in the world, and we think that this is a path to
prosperity, to unity, to stability in all regions of the world, and especially in West Africa. So, splitting doesn't seem to us a good idea,” he said.
Mignot noted that it was not up to the EU to tell ECOWAS how to handle the situation, he added the EU would readily avail itself by sharing its experience of how it went about the exit of the United Kingdom.
“And of course, as in other issues, if we can get any help, we would be happy to share our experience, our expertise with ECOWAS. Indeed, we had the experience of a former member state which decided to exit the European Union. And how did we manage to have a possible smooth exit? It was through negotiation and dialogue.
“It was not easy. It took some time, but finally we reached an agreement with the United Kingdom, an agreement on the modalities of the exit and an agreement on our new relationship with them. And now
we have constant dialogue on also adjusting this new agreement and trying to see how to make our new relationship more efficient.
“So, you know, even if you leave regional integration mobilisation,
geographically you remain neighbours and you have to find new ways of coexisting and cooperating. So, we hope very much that ECOWAS and the European Union will be able to do that also.”
lose our vigilance and fail to take corrective actions to protect and deepen our democracy.
''At the risk of sounding immodest, I doubt that there are many contemporary senior political leaders, who have spoken out and done more to promote democratic governance in our country than me.
“In addition to public statements and presentations, I brought some actions to our courts which produced landmark judicial decisions intended to uphold democratic principles and practices.
''Some of that effort was thrust upon me by circumstances of political struggles. But much of my effort was because of two things: my participation among other leaders in the struggles to ease the military
out of power; and my deep and enduring belief that democracy is the best route to development and unity for our diverse country and peoples.''
Atiku said democracy was characterised by, among other things, people’s freedom to choose their leaders, periodic elections, which partly ensured leaders’ commitment to the welfare of the governed, and leaders’ acceptance of guardrails (without restraints leaders tend to accumulate and abuse power). He also cited the consequences for non-compliance, including rejection at the polls, an independent judiciary to adjudicate disputes, and in a presidential system, checks and balances among the three branches of government.
Aregbesola, Omoluabi Progressives Stakeholders
Meet, Agree
to Quit APC
Members of the leading political organisation in Osun State, Omoluabi Progressives, have in a consensus vote, agreed to quit the All Progressives Congress (APC).
However, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has stated that it was not perturbed by the announcement group to quit the party in the state, which they had left since 2022. Former Minister of Interior,
Nigeria's Team to China Returns, Announces Deals with Top
Michael Olugbode in Abuja Nigeria’s investment-seeking delegation to China has concluded its visit, announcing that it had secured landmark agreements with top Chinese firms, paving the way for significant investments in critical sectors of the nation’s economy.
The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) undertook the tour of China to achieve the Bola Tinubu administration’s plan to revitalise the economy, it said in a statement.
The NCSP, led by its Director General, Joseph Tegbe, listed some of the companies as Chilwee Group, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), China Electronic Corporation, China Harbor Engineering Company, Huawei, and Loong UAV.
According to Tegbe: "These
agreements mark a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote economic cooperation between Nigeria and China. We are committed to driving Nigeria's socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments."
One of the key agreements, he said, was signed with Chilwee Group, a renowned Chinese manufacturer of cutting-edge batteries and power storage solutions.
The company, he stressed, has committed to investing in Nigeria, encompassing a multifaceted approach that includes sales, manufacturing, and potentially mining raw materials for the power storage value chain.
"This investment pledge aligns with Nigeria's overarching goals of promoting renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and
enhancing energy security. We are excited about the prospects of this partnership and look forward to working closely with Chilwee Group," Tegbe added.
Also, the NCSP facilitated a tripartite agreement between CPL Medical group, CSSC Haishen Medical Technology Co Ltd and China Habour Engineering Company over the renovation and upgrading of equipment in selected teaching hospitals across the country.
While speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Tegbe noted that the agreement represented an example of private-sector collaboration which the partnership hopes to promote.
In addition, the delegation met with top officials from China Electronic Corporation, led by Mr. Guo Zhaoping, Deputy Director General of CEC
Firms
Science & Technology Committee. Tegbe expressed optimism about cooperation between Nigeria and China in areas such as electronics equipment, public security surveillance (CCTV), digitisation of public services, and identity management.
Huawei, a global leader in ICT solutions, also expressed commitment to deepening its partnership with Nigeria. The company pledged significant investment in Nigeria's ICT sector, focusing on training programs, smart city development, and digital infrastructure.
"We are committed to supporting Nigeria's digital transformation agenda," said Huawei's Vice President, Andrew Zhanh. "We believe that our technologies can make a significant impact in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for Nigerians," he noted.
Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, hadformed Omoluabi progressive due to crisis that engulfed the pary in recent years.
This was the consensus of stakeholders after a session ratifying the earlier resolution of members from the 332 wards of Osun at its monthly meeting in Ilesa in a statement by the Organising and Publicity Secretary, Abosede Oluwaseun
Some of the reasons adduced for the resolution included ostracization from the party, suspension and expulsion of the tendency's leaders without fair-hearing, and continuous denigration of the structure, among others.
They also expressed dissatisfaction with the management of Osun APC intra-party crisis, which led to the party’s abysmal loss in the last election cycle, a situation they consented has waned its strength and popularity among the people of Osun.
The members were put to a voice vote by the leadership of the fold where they affirmed their readiness to switch allegiance to another political camp ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.
Addressing members, Aregbesola commended them for their commitment and steadfastness to the principles of character, integrity and good governance.
Aregbesola, while affirming the resolution, noted that it was time to work aggressively for the success of Omoluabi Progressives
and its vision to entrench good governance in Osun.
He also assured them that in no distant time, results of ongoing efforts by the leadership of the tendency to properly position it for the task ahead would materialise.
"We are open to all regardless of political, religious, or sociocultural leanings. We have the numbers, strength, and political acumen to provide a leadership that will make Osun the toast of its peers. By the grace of God, we shall succeed," Aregbesola stressed further.
But the APC noted that the announcement of the so-called Omoluabi Progressives to quit the APC was a good riddance to bad rubbish.
“In the first instance, the kernel of the statement by the dissidents group amounted to a confused pack of rudderless political vagabonds, who were approbating and reprobating at the same time as it is on record that a sizeable number of them have either been expelled or suspended from the party.
“How would any rational human being who has been suspended or expelled announce his resignation to the whole world again? Is that not an example of superfluity!
“We, in the Osun State APC, shall be happy to miss the political irritants and deviants who had since left the party by way of body and soul before the 2022 governorship election in the state.”
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, yesterday, said Nigeria's Democracy was at a crossroads. In a paper presented on Atiku's
COURTESY VISIT…
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr Maryam Ismaila Keshinro; Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and Senior Country Director, Pathfinder Nigeria, Dr. Amina Aminu Dorayi, during a courtesy visit to the minister in Abuja…yesterday
2025 Budget: National Assembly Charged to Prioritise Masses’ Welfare
Michael Olugbode in abuja
The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTiON), a coalition of over 50 social movement groups representing more than 30 million Nigerians, has raised serious concerns over the worsening economic conditions and pervasive insecurity in the country.
A statement by the group yesterday said with inflation climbing from 33.88 per cent in October 2024 to 34.8 per cent in
January 2025, and acute food insecurity projected by FEWS to worsen between February and May 2025, there is a grave threat to Nigeria’s democracy and stability.
Speaking after its steering committee meeting, the Convener, Comrade Hauwa Mustapha stated that: “The 2025 budget, in its current form, fails to address the critical needs of millions of Nigerians grappling with poverty, hunger, and insecurity. The National Assembly must ensure the budget reflects
Tinubu, Group Mourn Makinde’s Elder Brother
DejiElumoyeinabuja anKemi OlaitaninIbadan
President Bola Tinubu has mourned Sunday Makinde, the elder brother of the Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State. Similarly, the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID) and the Eledan family have expressed heartfelt condolences to Governor Makinde over the death of his elder brother.
In a condolence letter personally signed by him, the President while commiserating with the governor and the family on the passing of Engineer Makinde also prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased.
President Tinubu, in the one-page message to Oyo State governor stated, inter alia:
“Dear Governor Makinde, “My Sincere Condolences
“With a heavy heart, I extend my deepest sympathies to you, your family, and the people of Oyo State on the passing of your beloved elder brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde.
“The loss of a loved one, especially a cherished elder brother, is a profound sorrow. In this time of mourning, I want you to know
that I, along with many others, stand with you and your family. We pray for strength and comfort as you navigate this irreplaceable loss. I hope you find comfort in the memories you shared and the impact he had on those around him.
“This moment reminds us of the importance of family, unity, and love—values that your family has always exemplified and that we all hold dear. May these values strengthen you and your loved ones in this time of grief.
“I pray for the peaceful repose of Engineer Sunday Makinde’s soul and for the Almighty to grant you and your family the strength to navigate this challenging time.
“Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and that you are not alone in this period. You can count on my unwavering support and assistance during this difficult time.”
In a similar a statement issued by the OID Convener, Mr. Moses Eledan, the group and family described the loss as deeply unfortunate, heartbreaking, and unspeakably sad, stating that: “We are profoundly saddened by this irreplaceable loss.”
and prioritises the welfare of the masses, particularly those most affected by IMF/World Bank austerity measures, not
Fubara@50:
Rivers
a privileged few.” Mustapha while lamenting that with PWC projecting an additional 13 million Nigerians
could fall below the poverty line in 2025, emphasized that the proposed budget prioritises recurrent spending (N14.8 trillion,
a 19.66 per cent increase), while capital expenditure remains insufficient at N14.1 trillion (a mere 12.5 per cent increase).
Rolls Out Free Healthcare for 50,000 Vulnerable Persons
Fubara revamps Rivers Fire Service after 12 Years
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The Rivers State Government has rolled out free health care programme for 50,000 vulnerable persons across the 23 local government areas of the state.
The programme, which targets children, pregnant women, pensioners, and residents of correctional centres, is being
implemented by the State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the local government councils.
Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr Adaeze Oreh, revealed this at a press briefing in Port Harcourt, yesterday.
The commissioner revealed that the free medical program is being implemented through the Rivers State Contributory
Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP).
She said the initiatives, which is in commemoration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s 50th birthday, are designed to enhance access to quality healthcare, strengthen social equity, and reaffirms the state government’s unwavering commitment to universal health coverage and his excellency’s
vision for healthcare in Rivers State tagged; Health4All Rivers. Oreh said: “The Rivers State Ministry of Health through the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme, RIVCHPP, is delighted to announce a series of transformative healthcare interventions for the celebration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s 50th birthday.
CISLAC Condemns Attack on Chairman of Kano PCACC
Kasim Sumainainabuja
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has condemned the recent arrest and subsequent release of Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, the chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), by officers of the Inspector
General of Police (IG) Monitoring Unit.
In a statement signed yesterday by its Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC described the incident as a clear case of “corruption fighting back,” warning that such developments undermine Nigeria’s collective anti-corruption efforts and erode public trust.
Rafsanjani criticised the circumstances surrounding Rimingado’s arrest, noting that it appears to be connected to the commission’s ongoing investigations into a high-profile case involving properties allegedly linked to a prominent national figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Rimingado was reportedly detained last Friday evening over the seizure of property believed to be proceeds of crime. The investigation and prosecution of the former managing director of the Kano Agricultural Supply Company were carried out by the Kano Anti-Graft Agency in accordance with its enabling law and a court order.
Abia Courts Remain Shut as JUSUN Refuses to Call Off Strike
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in umuahia
Abia State courts have remained closed despite government’s commitment to pay the additional money owed the striking members of the state chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria(JUSUN).
The State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu had last Tuesday stated that both government and JUSUN had reached agreement and signed a memorandum of understanding(MoU) on the implementation of the new minimum wage. He also said that government was already processing the payment of the additional fund to make up for the shortfall in the amount of money being demanded by the union for the consequential adjustments of the consolidated judiciary
Abuja Estate Residents Hail Wike Over Massive
Sunday Aborisade in abuja
salary structure (CONJUS).
Governor Alex Otti said that he had on December 24, 2024 made available N310 million to the judiciary for the implementation of the minimum wage for the judiciary workers while JUSUN said that N900 million was needed.
Ganduje Proclaims APC as Greatest
Residents of the sprawling River Park Estate, in Abuja, have commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory(FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, for signing and issuing to them over 1,000 certificates of occupancy at once.
Party in Nigeria
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has proclaimed the ruling party as the greatest party in the country.
Ganduje, a former Governor of Kano state, also declared the APC as the only political party that observed and professed the rudiments of internal democracy.
He disclosed these in Katsina at the APC mega rally to present flags to its chairmanship and councillorship candidates for the Katsina State local government
election scheduled for February 15, 2025.
He said: “You can now testify that APC is the greatest party in Nigeria. Also you have seen thousands of decampees from PDP, NNPP, Acord party and PRP. We assure you that our party is the only party that maintains internal democracy.
“Our party is the only party that provides prosperity and development to the people of Nigeria. Therefore, we have to salute our President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformation of all the important policies of Nigeria.”
The residents expressed their gratitude when the developer, Mr. Paul Odili, who has now acquired full ownership of the estate, distributed the certificates of ownership to the lucky home owners.
They commended the magnanimity of the minister in signing such number of C- of- Os for an estate at once.
They noted that the kind gesture of the FCT minister would go a long way in encouraging investment in real estate and build robust confidence in house owners. .
President of KRPC Cooperative Society, Kaduna, Benjamin Ogwuche, said: “This is a dream come true. We have come a long way with Paulo Homes. We have over 100 properties here . I am delighted that our members own houses here. These C- of- Os issued to us today are proof of ownership”.
Suspect Pleads Not Guilty to Salome Adaidu’s Murder Charge
Yinka Olatunbosun
Timileyin Ajayi, the suspected killer of Salome Adaidu, has been arraigned before Justice Simon Aboki of the High Court of Justice in Lafia, Nasarawa State. He is charged with a one-count charge for culpable homicide punishable by death, contrary to Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria. Timileyin Ajayi has pleaded not guilty to the charge. He has also denied any involvement in the death, and the case has been adjourned
to March 17.
A few weeks ago, the suspect told journalists that he had no regrets butchering his alleged girlfriend, because he caught her sex chatting with other men. Adaidu was said to have been a youth corps member serving
at Nicon Insurance Abuja. She was on a visit to Nasarawa State at the time of the sad incident. The suspect was said to have been caught with the dismembered body of Adaidu and was reported promptly to local authorities.
Seven People Infected with Rabies in Benue State
George Okoh inMakurdi
Seven people have been infected with rabies in Kwande and Gboko Local Government Areas of Benue State. This was disclosed by Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe, the directorgeneral (DG), Benue Bureau of
Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control.
Asambe said the bureau was alerted to suspected rabies cases following reports of a dog bite incident affecting multiple individuals in Adikpo, Kwande LGA, and in
Gboko LGA.
The DG explained that in total, seven persons were bitten by two dogs, adding that the government has commenced contact tracing to identify those involved.
He said investigations revealed that the infected dog in Adikpo was sold to vendors to process for consumption.
“Thankfully, the dog’s head was retrieved and submitted to the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau State, where laboratory results confirmed the presence of the rabies virus.
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Super Eagles Get ‘Favourable’ Draw, to Battle Tanzania in Group C Opener
Femi Solaja
In what looks like mildopposition for the Super Eagles AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco, Nigeria will play in Group C alongside Taifa Stars of Tanzania, Carthage Eagles of Tunisia and the Cranes of Uganda.
At the Draw Ceremony in Rabat yesterday before a global audience, host Morocco will open the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations against Comoros Island in a Group A match with Mali and former champions Zambia to complete the mix.
For the Super Eagles, it will
be the second time they will face Tanzania in the opening match of the tournament after the 1980 tournament hosted by Nigeria and won on home soil.
The Christian Chukwu-led team walloped the Tanzanian side 3-1 at the National Stadium in Lagos with goals from Muda Lawal, Ifeanyi Onyedika, and Segun Odegbami.
Aside from the AFCON tournament, Nigeria last played against Tanzania in Uyo in 2016, in a deadrubber game for the 2017 edition in which both teams were already
eliminated. It was Gernot Rohr’s first match as Nigeria’s manager. Memories of how Tunisia eliminated Nigeria in the Round of 16 of the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon will also come to the mind of many Nigerians when both sides meet in the second group match.
By the competition’s pre-draw fixtures, teams drawn as group heads will play the fourth teams first while teams 2 and 3 will play the second matches of the group. The opening match on 21 December 2025 will pit hosts Morocco against the Comoros Islands.
The full draw:
Group A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros Islands
Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe
Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania
...YoboTips Super Eagles to Lift AFCON 2025 in Morocco
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Former Captain of the Super Eagles, Joseph Yobo, believes it
is time for Nigeria to lift the Africa Cup of Nations again following the draw of the three-time champions in Group C along with Tunisia,
Gov Abdulrazaq Names Kwara Stadium Main-bowl after Rashidi Yekini
Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has approved the naming of the main-bowl of the Kwara State Stadium Complex in Ilorin after the late Rashidi Yekini, a football legend renowned for scoring Nigeria’s first World Cup goal and the country’s highest goal scorer till date.
Yekini who died on May 4, 2012 after an illustrious career for club and country was honoured along with historic figures and past leaders of the state with some old and new legacy projects in the state.
Gov AbdulRazaq similarly approved for the main Kwara State Stadium Complex to be now known as Major-General George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex in appreciation of his contributions to the state.
Some other important sports facilities inside the stadium were also renamed as follows: Table Tennis Arena is named after Atanda Musa (Mansa Musa), who was a national champion in the games in 1979; Indoor Sports Hall is named after Gabriel Babatunde Ladipo, the first black principal of the Government Technical Training School Ilorin (GTTS) who was regarded as the father of sports in the state.
Also, the Squash Court is named after Coach Bolakale Mogaji, execu-
tive chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission who was the pioneer coach, player, and national champion in the squash game.
The KFA Academy is named after Coach Usuman Adenuja, the first football coach who took the Kwara Academicals to the final of Academical football competition. The governor was among his products.
Hostel A of the stadium is named after Salihu Ishola, the first Kwaran commonwealth games’ medalist; Hostel B is named after Paralympic badminton bronze medalist Bolaji Eniola; and Hostel C is named after Bola Esan, the first female director of sports.
Uganda and Tanzania in Rabat, Morocco last night.
Yobo who led Eagles to win their last AFCON title in 2013 in South Africa said shortly after the draw ceremony that the present crop of players in the senior national team have the capability to lift the title at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
“Presently, we have a wonderful crop of young players who can win the trophy for Nigeria again.
“They showed it at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire where they got to the final and only lost to hosts Côte d’Ivoire. I don’t want to go into naming names but as you can see from how they qualified, I think we can win this trophy again,” observed Yobo who was one of the legends of the African game that conducted the draw in Rabat last night.
Yobo, was the first Nigerian player to gross 100 international playing appearances for the Super Eagles.
He played every match and every minute of Nigeria’s successive
The 56th Molade Okoya-Thomas National Table Tennis Championships has received praises from players for going national this year.
The turnout on Monday, January 27, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium reflects the excitement among participants, who appreciated the initiator's family for opening the competition to players from acrossAmadiNigeria.Umeh from Edo State is eager to start his campaign after a disappointing performance in 2024.
"I am thrilled that the sponsors made this a national event. Many of us have been waiting for this opportunity to compete outside Lagos. With the best players in Nigeria participating, I am ready to give my all and make up for last year's performance. Winning the title here in Lagos would be a great start to my year," said the former West Africa champion.
Bose Odusanya, the most successful player in the tournament's history, also commended the sponsors. "Making this a national event is fantastic, but it won't stop me from aiming for the title again. I've won before, and I can do it again. The competition will be tough, but my goal is to win the
22 matches of the Africa Cup of Nations from 2002 to 2008. No other Nigerian player ever achieved that feat. He was only substituted in the 23rd successive match when he got injured in Nigeria’s second group match against Benin Republic at Angola 2010.
He played his last match for Nigeria on the 20th anniversary of the last match played by Late Stephen Keshi. Both played their last matches on 30 June 2014 and 1994Yobo’srespectively. last match was his 10th World Cup match, the duel with France in Brazil capital Brasilia in 2014.
Thus, he became Nigeria’s most-capped World Cup player, surpassing the nine appearances by Austin Jay Jay Okocha in 1994,1998 and 2002.
Before then, only three other Nigerians had featured in three World Cup editions – Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu and Vincent Enyeama.
title this year," Odusanya stated. Men’s singles defending champion Muiz Adegoke, who missed out on a national title in 2024 despite reaching several finals, is determined to dominate. "It's great that the tournament is now national. I'm looking forward to playing in the final and hopefully winning it again. The presence of more quality players will bring out the best in us, and I hope we see more competitions like this across the country," Adegoke said. The tournament’s referee, John Peters, said the enthusiasm among the players has been overwhelming as most of them cannot wait to compete on the opening day of the competition. “This is the largest number of players in any national tournament and I am happy that since I have been part of the tournament since 1972, we have never had it so big like this. I want to personally thank the family for listening to the yearning of the players by making it a national event and I hope it will help the players and the national handlers to shop for talents,” Peter said. Over 300 players, including deaf and para players, will compete in 13 events as the six-day tournament continues on Tuesday, January 28.
Organisers of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon have promised to make the 10th anniversary as a celebration of athleticism, unity and global excellence when the event rolls off on February 15, 2025. Over the years, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon has carved an indelible mark in the world of road racing, growing in leaps and bounds. It has evolved into
one of the fastest-growing road races globally, a testament to its stellar reputation and meticulous organisation.
Nilayo Sports Management, which is the force behind the event says the 10th edition will witness a more friendly and hospitable race that would be a reference point in road
Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin Republic, Botswana Group E: Algeria. Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan Group F: Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique
Super Eagles have been drawn in Group C of AFCON 2025 along with Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda
Rashidi Yekini...honoured by Kwara State government
Varsity Don to DisCos
“What they do is await the exhaustion of the running credits on meters, allow customers to recharge their cards but ensure they are not able to reload...they would tell you that your meter is bad and due for replacement and that they have new meters in abundance...convince you to allow the retrieval of the UNISTAR meter... apply online for a new meter...to pay N120,000” --LASU Don, Dr. Tunde Akanni, accuses IKEDC, EKEDC of excesses and massive extortion, against FCCPC’s directive.
TUESDAY WITH REUBEN ABATI
abati1990@gmail.com
Tanker Explosions, Avoidable Deaths
On Saturday, January 25, tears flowed freely as families mourned the death of 18 persons in a petrol tanker accident along the Ugwuonyema section of the Enugu-Onitsha expressway. The driver of the petrol tanker reportedly had a brake failure, then lost control and crashed into the vehicles in front of him. Petrol poured out and caught fire. The surrounding vehicles and their passengers were incinerated instantly. Eighteen persons were burnt to ashes, many more were severely burnt. Those who could be rescued were taken to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (Park Lane) and the National Orthopaedic Hospital for treatment. Both hospitals were overwhelmed. One of the victims was on holiday from his overseas base.
A week earlier, January 18, a fuel tanker carrying about 60, 000 litres of fuel crashed at the Dikko junction near Suleja in Niger State. Residents within the vicinity, including children, immediately rushed to the scene with all kinds of containers: buckets, kegs, bottles, some even carried their generators with them to scoop free fuel. In the hustle and bustle that ensued, there was an explosion! Over 80 lives were lost, 69 persons were critically injured, about 20 nearby shops were burnt down and destroyed. On January 22, 2025, in Jalingo, Taraba state, less than a week after the tragedy in Suleja another petrol tanker overturned, spilling its contents onto the road, and despite the obvious risks, the people again rushed out to collect fuel. They had to be chased away by Civil Defence Officers. In October 2024, a similar incident in Majiya, Jigawa resulted in the death of about 200 people and injured over 120 others. Again, it was reported in that incident that the tanker which was travelling between Kano and Yobe State overturned while trying to avoid a collision with another truck. Its contents spilled and people quickly looked for containers to scoop free fuel. And an explosion occurred. In September 2024, there was yet another case of tanker explosion in Niger State when a petrol tanker ran into a herd of cattle and collided with a truck. Over 50 persons died. Thus, petrol tanker explosions have become so frequent in Nigeria, North to South, East to West, so much that Nigerians are beginning to accept this as a fact of life. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to convey the tragic nature of the problem stated that in the year 2020 alone, there were about 1, 531 such accidents, claiming 535 lives. In the last three months, more than 250 persons have died.
Oil was discovered in Nigeria in 1956 by the Royal Shell Company, with exploration beginning in earnest in 1958, and over the years Nigeria became the sixth largest producer of crude oil in the world, with petrodollar accounting for 80% of the country’s total export revenue and foreign exchange earnings. The country also has the finest, in-demand grade of crude: the low sulfur, sweet, Brent crude. Ordinarily, this should be a blessing to the country, but the biggest problem that Nigeria faces is the curse of oil, that is “resource curse”. Either in a crude form or processed form, oil has been the cause of Nigeria’s woes. The mismanagement of this resource, poor leadership, and corruption within the oil and gas industry have since combined to lead to rebellion in the Niger Delta, and a scramble for oil wealth. Nigeria has over 5,000 kilometres of pipelines, but these pipelines are routinely vandalized, resulting in spills and environmental degradation, and tragedy, oil thieves continue to compromise the weak pipelines trying to get their share of the national cake, the oil companies have not done enough to maintain infrastructure in the face of the menace of restiveness in the Niger Delta. Only about 1%
of the population benefits from oil revenue. Fuel is transported on the roads, and most of the roads in Nigeria are bad. When fuel tankers overturn, members of the Petrol Tanker Drivers Association of Nigeria are quick to blame the bad state of the roads, but that does tell the full story. The true story is so bad that each time there is an omission in the oil and gas sector, hundreds or thousands die as they did in Jesse, in Delta State on October 18, 1998 pipeline explosion; Atlas Creek Island, Lagos in 2006; Ijegun, 2008; Ejigbo, Lagos in 2018; and gas explosion in Abule Ado area of Amuwo Odofin in Lagos in 2020.
Whether it is pipeline, or gas or fuel explosion, the story line has remained similar and repetitive, and the people who lose their lives and properties are the victims. The responses from the relevant authorities are predictable: prominent Nigerians including Governors and the Presidency would immediately issue statements describing the incident as “worrisome, heartbreaking, unfortunate, regrettable and tragic,” with the usual condolences duly expressed. The Emergency Management Agency in the affected states, the Fire Service and the FRSC would rush to the press to demonstrate that their officials and the “ogas at the top” are on top of the matter. Nobody is actually on top of anything. The Federal Government would announce that it has set up a committee to investigate the matter, and advise the government on pipeline safety and petroleum transport safety protocols. Religious leaders will offer prayers for the souls of the dead, and the community would bury the remains in mass graves. Opposition political leaders would visit the elders of the community and make some very open donations, the pre-planned publicity of which would almost gain greater prominence in the media. As it was in 1998, so it is today. After the rituals of statements and investigations, the results of which may never be released, the country moves on. The road lies in wait. When the next “worrisome, heartbreaking, unfortunate, regrettable and tragic accident” occurs in another part of the country, we go through the same ritual again. It looks like a repetitive cycle of failure. It is right to commiserate with the bereaved families in Niger and Enugu states, but it will, sad to say, happen again. It is certainly tragic that in many of the cases, entire families are wiped out, for no reason other than that they are in a country
that suffers from the curse of oil. How about a Nigerian in diaspora who comes home on holiday only to end up dying on the road because a fuel tanker crashes and explodes?
But why do people rush to scoop fuel each time a tanker discharges its contents on the road? Why do people choose to willingly commit suicide knowing that fuel is combustible and death is the only certainty when an explosion occurs? Since May 2023, the pump price of fuel has increased by about 400%, the cost of living as a result of inflation has also increased. Those who own cars can hardly fill their tanks anymore. Generator owners need fuel but the cost is also high, and there is no regular electricity supply in a country of over 200 million people. When there is news of free petrol gouging out of a fallen tanker, or a burst pipeline, the people rush for gold, and they often die in the process. The people live in a blessed country but they are so adrift, so lost, they would rather embrace death with faith and hope. The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has been directed by the President to sensitize the people, and educate them. In other words, Nigerians must be advised not to commit suicide. The current leadership of NOA says it is ready to take on the task. But will the people listen? It is the yawning disconnect between the people and their government that will in part cause the next fuel tanker explosion.
Fuel tanker drivers are quick to blame the state of the roads. Frequent accidents on the EnuguOnitsha Expressway have been traced to the poor state of the roads, and indeed, this is a major problem nationwide. If the roads are full of potholes and bumps, the drivers knowing that they are transporting dangerous content ought to drive more carefully. No, they don’t. They are forever struggling for space with other motorists. They drive at high speed, and nobody enforces speed limits on highways. The Petrol Tankers Owners Association of Nigeria, National Association of Transport Operators, Container Truck Owners Association of Nigeria and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) claim that they would enforce safety protocols. But they do not. And they will not. The drivers leave their loading depots, for the most part, fully stoned, or energized by psychotropic drugs. They are also made to travel long distances. Many of them doze off on the steering wheels. Petrol tanker owners want their cargo delivered at the destination. They don’t care much about the accidents that occur on the roads. Many of the tankers are not properly maintained. The brakes often fail. Both the tanker drivers and the tanker owners must be held liable for the havoc that they cause. Until a tanker driver and the tanker owner are tried and convicted, made to pay damages to the government and the families of victims, or banned outrightly from ever running a tanker business, we may never see any improvement. Going forward any truck bearing unlatched containers, which fall over, endangering lives and properties, must be seized, along with the container and its entire contents. The driver and the owner of same must be made to face the full wrath of the law. Setting up committees and issuing statements will never help.
Where are the government agencies on the roads, the security personnel: the police, road safety, fire service who are supposed to ensure safety on the roads? Even when they are on the roads, they are also busy trying to survive. There are not enough fire safety units in the country to start with, certainly not on the highways, making a mockery of every attempt at emergency response. The policemen collect bribes. Road safety officials are overstretched. There are too many bad vehicles on Nigeria’s bad roads, and
most of the vehicles violating rules and regulations are owned by Nigeria’s big men: an untouchable class of non-citizens with an elephantine sense of entitlement. We should be tired of the law enforcement agencies playing to the gallery. They need to become professional.
And in any case, why should we transport petrol and other dangerous cargo by road and often during daytime at busy hours, either within the city or the highways. In the past some state governments have had to restrict the movement of tanker drivers to specific times of the day or to designated routes. In 2018, the Lagos state government directed articulated vehicles to obtain road worthiness certificates within 30 days, Anambra state did so too in 2019, directing that tankers and containers could only travel within the state between 1 am to 4 am. Following the accident in Suleja, Niger State, on January 18, the state Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has since banned heavy-duty trucks from plying the Dikko Bridge where the accident occurred. State governments lack the capacity to enforce their own orders. The tankers and containers are owned by very powerful persons and organizations in Nigeria: the same people who donate money and sponsor candidates during elections. Over the years, corporate Nigeria has perfected the art of putting the professional political class in its pocket. The owners of the murderous tankers and containers and the Godfathers of the men in political offices. This combination of capital and social connections stands in the way of any effective policy making and implementation in Nigeria, with the people at the mercy of the conspiracy of the business and political elite.
What is the best practice in other parts of the world, with regard to the transportation of fuel and other cargo? The fact that toxic and inflammable materials are still being transported so carelessly on Nigerian roads is yet another sign of the country’s underdevelopment. Nigeria is a member of OPEC like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Angola, Gabon, Algeria, and the UAE. You may never hear that a petrol tanker on the roads crashed in those countries and people rushed to scoop fuel and got murdered by the state. It is a question of how much value we place on human lives around here.
And when these accidents occur, why is it that the hospitals are not of any significant use? The usual excuse is that we have good doctors and specialists, but most of the hospitals are poorly equipped. It is either there is no electricity or there is no diesel to power the generator. There was a students’ protest recently at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, once a pride of the nation, because there was no electricity. The Ibadan Disco had to cut off power supply to the hospital for months due to unpaid electricity bills! How can such a hospital respond to any medical emergency? The story is the same in other parts of the country where hospitals reject accident and emergency cases due to the lack of basic facilities, including oxygen tanks. And yet many of these hospitals were supposedly built and equipped by the government at double or triple the actual cost. When people get burnt to ashes in Nigeria, in a fuel tanker accident for example, there is virtually no means of identifying them either through biometrics and dental records. The ashes are collected and buried in unmarked and unknown graves. Nigeria is a vast country of undocumented non-citizens, no reliable data, no ready-to-access medical records, and even those that may be documented can only pray that Nigeria does not happen to them. The fact that it is possible for anyone to wake up in the morning and disappear without trace and permanently is what is truly tragic about our Nigerian experience.
Scene of a tanker explosion in Niger State... recently
