SATURDAY 18TH FEBRUARY 2023 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

NNPC Limited Ends Operations as Government’s Corporation, Takes over Old NNPC’s $60bn Assets Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) yesterday officially marked

the end of its operations as a corporation after the transfer of assets worth $60 billion, as well as the takeover of liabilities from the old NNPC, as prescribed by

the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The company announced that having successfully crossed that legal requirement, within the stipulated 18 months in line

with section 54 (3), the ‘cutover' now means all its operations will be done in the name of NNPC Limited. Speaking at the event in Abuja,

which drew key industry players, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mallam Mele Kyari, noted that the move would ensure seamless availability of

financing for major projects as lenders are now more willing to do business with the NNPC. Continued on page 5

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Presidency: Buhari Not Planning to Install Interim Govt Says President looking forward to handing over to an elected successor Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Presidency has formally reacted to speculations that an

interim national government is being planned for the country ahead of the May 29, 2023 handover date, saying there is

no iota of truth in the speculation. Rather, it stated that the elections scheduled for February 25 and March 11 would go on

and winners declared in line with stipulated guidelines. The presidency’s response comes hours after Governor

Nasir el-rufai of Kaduna State said the cash scarcity following the Naira redesign policy, as well as the current petrol scarcity,

were part of a plot to ensure that the 2023 elections do not Continued on page 5

Datti Baba-Ahmed: El-Rufai’s Comments on Naira Redesign Treasonable, Not Covered By Immunity Fresh violent protests erupt in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers Adamu holds emergency meeting with APC govs tomorrow Lawmakers insist Naira redesign policy unpopular, may frustrate elections THE Continue spending old notes, Gov Abiodun tells residents See story on page 5

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GOODNIGHT CHIEF SUNDAY STEPHEN RONE... L-R: Former President, Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick; Son of the deceased, CEO, UTM Oﬀshore Limited, Julius Rone OFR; Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly/PDP Governorship Candidate, Sheriﬀ Oborevwori and former President, Nigerian Bar Association, Olumide KUNLE OGUNFUYI Akpata, during the service of songs for late Chief Sunday Stephen Rone in Warri, Delta State ... yesterday.

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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

PAGE FIVE DATTI BABA-AHMED: EL-RUFAI’S COMMENTS ON NAIRA REDESIGN TREASONABLE, NOT COVERED BY IMMUNITY Deji Elumoye, Adedayo Akinwale and Juliet Akoje in Abuja James Sowole in Abeokuta, Segun James in Lagos, Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Vice-Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Datti Baba-Ahmed yesterday described as “treasonable” the comments of Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State on the Naira redesign policy following the nationwide broadcast of President Muhammadu Buhari on the issue. El-Rufai in a state broadcast last Thursday faulted the President for his directive to re-introduce just the old N200 banknote as part of measures to curb the cash crunch in the country. On the same day, a fresh round of protests erupted in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Rivers states, triggered by the inability of residents to access the new notes, the hardship caused by the Naira redesign policy, and President Buhari’s broadcast, which contrary to expectations, approved the return of only old N200 notes while the old N500 and N1000 notes were invalidated. El-Rufai, who said during his broadcast that the old N1,000 and N500 were still legal tender in his state, stated further that the aim of the Naira redesign was to scuttle the general elections in order to

allow an interim government led by a retired army general. The big question on the lips of analysts last night regarding the el-rufai broadcast is: Can a sitting governor instigate a coup and claim immunity? However, speaking during a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the LP Vice-Presidential candidate said the governor’s comment amounted to treason and wondered why the presidency was silent. He argued that there is only one authority in Nigeria which is the president and wondered how a governor could counter the directive of the president. “Anybody who commits this kind of indiscipline under our leadership would bear the full weight of the law. We have been more than bewildered at the failures we have witnessed in the past few days. However, it is more of an act of treason; so, to say, it is an act of treason. If an elected governor of a constituent part of a sovereign country will give direct instructions to the contrary of what is the exclusive preserve of the federal government. “Why as a Commander-inChief you give a clean executive constitutional order and a state governor goes out to say that you should continue to exchange those

currencies? This is to say that there are two authorities in a country,” Baba-Ahmed said. El-rufai said the development was meant to ensure that the presidential candidate of the ruling APC, Bola Tinubu, and other candidates of the party lose. He claimed that those who lost out in the party’s primaries were behind the plot. He said, “It is important for the people of Kaduna State, and indeed Nigeria, to know that contrary to the public pronouncements and apparent good intentions, this policy was conceived and sold to the President by officials who completely lost out in the gubernatorial and presidential primaries of the APC in June 2022. “Once Asiwaju Bola Tinubu emerged as the candidate in June 2022, and subsequently did not pick one of them as his running mate, this currency redesign policy was conceived to ensure that the APC presidential candidate is deprived of what they alleged is a humongous war chest. “They also sought to achieve any one or more of the following objectives: create a nationwide shortage of cash so that citizens are incited to vote against APC candidates across the board resulting in massive losses for the party in all

the elections; ensure that the cash crunch is so serious, along with the contrived and enduring fuel shortage existing since September 2022, that the 2023 elections do not hold at all, leading to an Interim National Government to be led by a retired Army General; sustain the climate of shortage of fuel, food and other necessities, leading to mass protests, violence and breakdown of law and order that would provide a fertile foundation for a military take-over.”

Meeting with APC Governors

The National Chairman of the APC, Senator Abdulahi Adamu will tomorrow hold an emergency meeting with the governors of the party. The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka in a statement issued yesterday said the meeting would be held at the National Secretariat of the party in Abuja. However, the meeting may not be unconnected with the opposition of the APC governors to the Naira redesign policy of President Buhari.

Fresh Protest in Lagos, Rivers, Ogun, Oyo

A fresh round of protests erupted

PRESIDENCY: BUHARI NOT PLANNING TO INSTALL INTERIM GOVT hold at all, “leading to an interim national government to be led by a retired army general”. The Presidency, in a statement titled, “Stop the Joke About Interim Government, Election Will Hol”', issued yesterday by presidential spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, emphasised that President Muhammadu Buhari was at no time working towards having any interim government and never made any move to truncate the nation's democratic process. It stated that the rumour was being peddled by politicians afraid of losing during the forthcoming general elections. The Presidency noted that the recent currency swap has put a lot of pressure on the system including the election process leading to President Buhari consulting widely on how to solve the problem associated with the currency policy and move forward. It added that hands are on deck to ensure that the elections go on as scheduled and winners declared in line with provisions of the Constitution and the electoral act. The statement stressed that the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress,

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is the preferred successor of the President, is not against the currency swap policy of the present administration. The Presidency, according to the statement, said: "Joseph Goebbels, the propaganda Chief of Adolf Hitler said ‘Repeat a lie often enough and it becomes the truth’. This was in the 1930s, before the internet was born. "Let us clearly, specifically and emphatically state that there is absolutely no truth to the claim that President Muhammadu Buhari is working towards an interim government or even worse, the truncation of democracy- democracy that he has helped to keep alive not only here at home, in West Africa, but throughout the continent. "The talk of interim government and truncation of democracy is way off the mark. Those who peddle it stand to gain nothingnothing at all -but the creation of panic and the incitement of the public against the federal government. "It is another dangerous dimension by people who are afraid that they may lose their elections. Everybody is aware

that there is a lot of pressure on everyone-all of us- the party, its elected officials, its candidates and law enforcement agencies following the way the currency swap has gone, but the way to go is not to panic. There is indeed a problem and nobody will pretend that it doesn’t exist. "It is precisely because the President is concerned with this problem that he opened several avenues for consultation with leaders and groups across the country, culminating in his broadcast to the nation on Thursday morning. “In line with the speech, his clear and unequivocal directive is that the problem of cash supply must be addressed without delay. "While this is being done, there is no need to panic. We need to work together as leaders; as a people and as one nation. When panic hits, people go into overdrive. Shouting helps no one because no one can listen. "The solution to the problem is not in sending Nigerians into confusion. Elections, just a week ahead, will hold and Nigerians will vote for the APC (and any others if they so wish) on the basis of their choice.

"Our people want progress, good governance, law and order and will not be swayed by the negative energy that is being expended against a well-meaning currency change. "Finally, to state that the President clearly has a favoured successor in Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, is not in doubt. "The fact that Tinubu has been opposed to the speed and timing of the Naira swap timetable does not mean he is against the idea of Nigeria becoming a cashless society. Of course, Tinubu does support a cashless society, for he is a man of the future. "What should be made crystal clear to the doubters and the speculators and the untruth-tellers is that in no way was the Naira swap ‘engineered’ to keep the President in office beyond May 29. Nothing could be further from the truth. "The President looks forward to handing over the reins of power to his elected successor. This will happen on May 29, 2023 as the Constitution requires it. "The days of unelected Nigerian leaders, and those who outstay their welcome by unconstitutionally extending it, have gone."

NNPC LIMITED ENDS OPERATIONS AS GOVERNMENT’S CORPORATION, TAKES OVER OLD NNPC’S $60BN ASSETS Before now, he stated that financial institutions did not see the ability of the company to repay loans and therefore could not guarantee funding. “And therefore, before now, we will talk and talk and at the end, we don't have access to financing. Now everyone can see that we're a large company. There's no company with $60 billion assets. It doesn't exist in this country. “So, we're the largest company in this country. We're also the largest company in Africa...Let me be frontal about it, our past structures were designed around individuals and geopolitical zones. It's no longer so. Today we have a slim management structure which recognises only our ability to deliver,” he stressed. Kyari stated that while the law provides that the NNPC could decide to leave a certain class of assets, the NNPC Limited has resolved to take over the entire assets and liabilities of the defunct corporation. “But you will ask me, so what do I want to do with the assets? The assets are the overall joint venture assets and other

businesses that the company has got. The shareholders have transferred all the assets to us, so there is no asset that is left outside. “The law provides that we can potentially leave some of them behind. By today's counting, every asset of the corporation, including its liability has been transferred to the NNPC limited and I repeat that the liabilities are far less than the assets that we have. So, it’s a very comfortable situation,” Kyari added. With the new law, the GCEO stated that there’s now a clear line of sight on the company’s financing operations, including the retention of part of the dividends and retention of 30 percent oil profits from Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs). He recalled that in 2018, the corporation as it then was, lost N803 billion, noting that since then enormous work had been done which eventually reduced the losses from N803 billion to N2.3 billion, explaining that by fiscal 2020, the company returned to the path of profitability with N287 billion and N674 billion in 2021.

To meet its status as a limited liability company, Kyari stated that the NNPC is now driving down costs substantially, growing oil production, noting that drilling has now crossed 1.6 million barrels per day and the company intends to hit 1.8 million barrels per day in the next three months. Kyari stated that the new NNPC was working to grow the country’s gas assets and will be able to deliver up to 8 billion SCF of gas into the domestic market in the near future. However, he stated that since Nigeria as a country has decided to retain petrol subsidy for now, such payments have crossed N400 billion monthly. Kyari explained that the oil company was spending about N202 as subsidy on every litre of petrol consumed across the country, stressing that about 65 million litres of the product was pumped daily into the market. He pointed out that the subsidy had been a severe strain on NNPC’s cash flow. In his remarks, the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, said the crystallisation of the PIA

remains only a means to an end, for the enthronement of a vibrant, sustainable, efficient and investment-friendly petroleum industry which will improve Nigeria’s revenue base, create jobs and support its economic diversification agenda. “To get to this desired end, deliberate effort must be made to implement the law in a manner that best achieves the stated objectives in line with the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians whose lives will be impacted by the consequences of our decisions and actions. “As part of the commitment to achieve a viable National Energy Company, the PIA put a long stop date of 18 months from the effective date of the Act as the timeline within which full transfer of assets, interest and liabilities must be completed,” he said. He assured that NNPC Limited was positioned to lead Africa’s gradual transition to new energy, by deepening natural gas production to create low-carbon alternatives and changing the story of energy poverty at home and around the world.

yesterday morning in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Rivers states, triggered by the inability of residents to access the new notes, the hardship caused by the Naira redesign policy, and President Buhari’s Thursday morning’s broadcast, which contrary to expectations, approved the return of only old N200 notes while the old N500 and N1000 notes were invalidated. The CBN had in October 2022 announced the redesign of N200, N500, and N1,000 notes, and asked Nigerians to deposit their old notes before January 31, 2023 when they would cease to be legal tender. The deadline was shifted to February 10 following difficulties obtaining the new notes. But the challenges of getting the new notes persist, leading to protests across Nigeria. Yesterday in Lagos, protests broke out very early on the Lagos-Ikorodu Road, Agege, Iyana-Ipaja, Igando, where roads were blocked and vehicles damaged. In Mile 12, Ketu and Ojota areas, vandals took to the road, attacking commuters and creating chaos. In Epe, Lagos East, hoodlums vandalised some banks during the protest. In a press statement yesterday, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for calm, saying there was no need for violence. The governor assured that he was on top of the matter to ensure that the hardship caused by the naira redesign policy of the CBN did not persist. The statement signed by Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, read, “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu believes there is no need for violence as the Supreme Court is looking into this controversial matter and will make its position known on February 22. “Lagos State has since joined the legal dispute – all in the interest of our people – in the belief that the highest court in the land has the capacity to adjudicate on the matter. The fuel situation is easing following some steps taken by the government.”

Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Vehicular movement on LagosIbadan Expressway came to a halt for several hours yesterday as protesters took over several sections of the road. The gridlock spread from the Mowe area of Ogun State inwards the Long Bridge area of Arepo. Many vehicles had to turn back in an attempt to escape the chaos ahead. The protesters were seen chanting, “Old naira notes” The protest spread further to the Magboro axis of the highway with travellers and road users turning around to the Lagos end of the road. The Lagos State Rapid Response Squad eventually arrived in the Ibafo area of Ogun State to clear the protesters off the road.

Ibadan Protest

Protesters took over the streets of Ibadan in Oyo State for several hours yesterday over the scarcity of the new Naira notes and the ban of the old N500 and N1000 notes by the CBN. The protest began in Iwo Road where gunshots were heard and escalated to other areas of Ibadan. People were seen running for dear lives at the sound of gunshots, as vehicular movement in parts of the state were affected.

Banks Vandalised in Port Harcourt

The protests took a dangerous turn in Port Harcourt, Rivers State yesterday as hoodlums vandalised two commercial banks. The affected banks are First Bank in Churchill and Keystone Bank along Aggrey Road. The First City Monument Bank at Rumuokoro in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State was earlier destroyed by angry members of the public on Thursday.

First Bank at Churchill was the most affected, as the Automated Teller Machines were destroyed and stones were thrown into the premises, destroying several facilities. Not satisfied with the damage, the hoodlums pulled down the gate of the bank, and forced their way into the banking hall as bank staff ran for their lives. The hoodlums then looted computer monitors, desktops, water dispensers and other items inside the bank, but their hope of finding cash was unsuccessful. At the Keystone Bank along Aggrey Road, only the two ATMs were destroyed. Following the rampage and destruction, markets, shops, boutiques and business premises hurriedly closed for the day, while residents ran into their houses and looked out from their windows. Three police patrol vans were stationed in front of First Bank to avoid further attacks, as it was learnt that the hoodlums had finalised arrangements to set fire to the bank. The policemen shot sporadically into the air and chased the hoodlums into the Abuja, Bishop Johnson and Ibadan Waterfronts.

House of Representatives: Naira Redesign Policy May Frustrate Elections

The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on New Naira Re-Design and Naira Swap Policy has said the current crisis is capable of frustrating the forthcoming 2023 general elections. The committee also criticised the action of President Buhari on the crisis as leaving “much to be desired.” Majority Leader of the House and the committee’s Chairman, Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, made this known in a statement he issued yesterday, about 24 hours after leading members of the committee to a meeting with Buhari at the Presidential Villa. Ado-Doguwa, in the statement titled, “House C’ttee Meets Buhari, Insists Naira Policy Unpopular, Could Jeopardise Polls”, said a lot must be done to mitigate the suffering of Nigerians following the Naira crisis. Ado-Doguwa said: “The steps taken so far by Mr. President leave much to be desired. The policy is at this time very unpopular and is capable of creating a crisis in the country that could jeopardise the upcoming general elections.”

Ozekhome Accuses Buhari of Acting Like Military Tyrant

A Constitutional lawyer, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, has faulted President Buhari’s directive limiting the legal tender status of old Naira notes to only N200, describing it as a frontal call to chaos, anarchy and national upheaval. Ozekhome, in a statement, said Buhari’s broadcast to the Nation literally overruled the Supreme Court of the land, in a way and manner only a military tyrant could ever contemplate. The statement titled 'President Buhari Cannot Overrule the Supreme Court', Ozekhome said what the President did was a direct assault on the authority of the Supreme Court. He added that Buhari’s “imperious order was a frontal call to chaos, anarchy and national upheaval.” He described the President's broadcast more in the form of a military Decree, that, “in line with section 20(3) of the CBN Act, 2007, all existing old N1,000 and N500 notes remain redeemable at the CBN and designated points.” According to him, the President's directive was a clear violation of and disobedience to the existing order of the apex court which had already maintained the status quo ante bellum of all parties involved in the Naira re-design dispute.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

NEWS

News Editor Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

Irregular Migration: Saudi Arabia Arrests 800 Nigerians Bennett Oghifo About 800 Nigerians have been arrested by the government of Saudi Arabia for irregular migration and other offences. The Head, Public Relations Unit, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Gabriel Odu, said this in a statement yesterday. NiDCOM said: “The at-

tention of the Management of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, has been drawn to a communication from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on Saudi Arabian authorities intensifying crackdown on undocumented foreigners in their Country. “The letter stated that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between October and

December 2022, intensified joint operations across the country targeted at ridding the Kingdom of undocumented irregular migrants. “In the communication to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Saudi Arabian government noted that about

45,458 foreigners ranging from violation of residency rules, illegal border crossing attempts and irregular migrants for labour-related offences are in the country. “NiDCOM therefore, urges Nigerians travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

without proper documentation not to do so as Saudi authorities have heightened a clamp down on irregular migrants. “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has about 800 Nigerians arrested and detained for various offences particularly

Consular issues since the clampdown began in October 2022. “Though the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi is intervening in this matter, NiDCOM urges Nigerians to resist breaking the laws of other countries.”

APC Pegs Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi Governorship Forms at N50m Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC) has pegged the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states at N50 million. The schedule of activities and timetable for the Governorship released by the National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Arugungu, showed that the nomination form goes for N40 million while the expression of interest attracts a payment of N10 million. However, the ruling party approved that nomination forms to all female gubernatorial aspirants and Persons Living With Disabilities (PWD) would be given free. They would however pay for the expression of interest form. Arugungu said: “By the provision of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable, the All Progressives Congress (APC) hereby release its timetable and schedule of activities for the conduct

of the conduct of 2023 Gubernatorial Elections in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa States.” The schedule also showed that youth from the age of 25 - 40 years would enjoy a 50 per cent discount from nomination forms, while full payment would be made for the expression of interest form. According to the schedule of activities, sale of nomination and expression of interest forms commenced on Wednesday 15 and would end on February 22, while the submission of completed forms and accompanying documents was slated for February 22. The party also scheduled the screening of aspirants to take place between March 24th and 26, while publication of screening results is slated for March 28, and screening appeal would be held March 29. The primary election would be held on April 10, while the primary election appeal would be held on April 12. The gubernatorial elections in the three states will take place on 11 November 2023.

Bello Koko: NPA Needs $800m to Rehabilitate Apapa, Tin-Can, Calabar, Onne Ports Eromosele Abiodun The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr. Mohammed Bello Koko, has said that the rehabilitation of Apapa and Tin-Can Island Ports in Lagos, including Onne Port in Rivers State and Calabar Port in Cross River State will gulp $800 million. He said that the money will either come in as a loan or the agency will fund the rehabilitation project which will lead to a reduction of its contribution into the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF). Bello-Koko stated this on Thursday while speaking virtually at the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) Europe and Africa 2023 Regional meeting held in Germany, where the Vice-President of both regions, Jens Meier (Europe) and Micheal Luguje (Africa), hosted IAPH members CEO’s to a top level discussions.

According to the NPA boss, the $800 million, if it comes in as a loan facility, will be repayable in a seven-year period. He said the rehabilitation would help in achieving the digitalisation of all the four ports in Nigeria. “The rehabilitation of Apapa, Tin Can Island Port in Lagos, Onne and Calabar ports in the Eastern port will cost $800 million. “The $800 million will either come in as a loan or NPA will fund the rehabilitation, which will reduce its contribution to the CRF. “This will help in achieving the digitalisation of all ports in Nigeria. “Palliative and remedial works are no more effective. These ports need total rehabilitation,’’ BelloKoko stated. The NPA boss also stressed on the impact of the collaboration between the government and private sector partnership and the gains to the Nigerian ports.

SETTING STANDARDS… L-R: The Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Edward Ubosi; the Vice Chancellor, State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS) Igbo-Eno, Prof. James Ogbonna; Governor of Enugu State and candidate of the PDP for Enugu North Senatorial District, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the PDP governorship candidate in the state, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and the representative of Bishop Godfrey Igwebuike Onah of Catholic of Nsukka and Vicar General of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Greg Amuluche Nnamani, during the unveiling of the medical university…

Delta Tricycle Plant, MechanicVillage for Inauguration Soon Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba About one year after the MoU for its establishment was signed, the Delta State Tricycle Manufacturing Plant located in Asaba will soon commence full operations and inauguration in a couple of weeks. The Managing Director of Stallion Group, Mr. Manish Rohtagi, who disclosed this when a team of officials from the Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA) visited the site of the Stallion Auto Keke assembling plant near Asaba Airport, said that “the plant is almost ready with the full assembly line.” The tripartite agreement was signed by DIDA with the office of the Delta State Attorney-General, Lagos-based Stallion Group’s Stallion Auto Keke Limited as well as the landed property leaser.

According to Mr. Jayesh Shinde, Regional Head, Stallion Auto Keke Limited, who represented the managing director, fabrication of the necessary equipment and other assembly line facilities for commencement of full operations were ready and being shipped down from Lagos for installation. Describing the company’s brand, Bhaajaj Keke (tricycle) as the preferred and most widely used in over 70 countries of the world, the Stallion Group’s boss commended the state government for the prevailing atmosphere of peace, adding that the less volatile nature of Asaba was one of the incentives for the location of the tricycle plant. To kick-off production from the CKD (completely knocked down) parts, some 3,000 modern Bhaaraj tricycles would be rolled out of the assembly plant, he further said.

The Director General of Delta State Investments Agency, Chief Lucky Oghene-Omoru, represented by Mr. Peter Okolie, DIDA’s Special Project Director, expressed happiness that the plant, which signposts the agency’s “efforts at attracting meaningful investments to Delta State”, noting that it would be a watershed for business generation and employment creation. At the ultra-modern Auto Mechanic Centre, Asaba, the DIDA team was told that work on the project was over 95 per cent completed and merely awaiting the state government’s decision on inauguration date. Mr. Chima Ofoma, Project Coordinator of Real Homes and Property Development, noted that the project was meant to be a one-stop centre for auto mechanic services and spare parts sale, aside other related businesses.

While thanking the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for its immense moral and financial support towards the realisation of the project, said that two main blocks containing 78 high-tech mechanic workshops and 704 lockup stores in two floors were already letting or being given out for outright sales to interested individuals. “DIDA paved the way for the partnership with Delta State Government and the takeoff of the whole project; and, Governor Okowa supported us with 30 per cent. The DIDA team also inspected the extent of work at the Ogbeogonogo Market Extension within the Asaba metropolis, which Chief Emeka Okoye, the project site manager of Jamlaw Property Limited, said was 85 per cent completed.

Ugwuanyi Unveils University of Medical and Applied Sciences Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu Stat yesterday, made history as he unveiled the State’s University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, Enugu State, newly conceived and established by his administration. SUMAS, Igbo-Eno is the second university to be established in Nsukka zone (Enugu North Senatorial District) after the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) attracted to the zone by the first President of Nigeria, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. Ugwuanyi, who is the candi-

date of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Enugu North Senatorial District, performed the historic unveiling of the medical university before he delivered the 5th Adada Lecture organised by Association of Nsukka Professors (ANP), titled “Leadership, Education and Inclusive Development.” SUMAS is one of the landmark achievements of Governor Ugwuanyi’s administration aimed at increasing access to quality medical university education for the teeming youths.

The aim is also to provide accessible, quality and affordable healthcare service delivery to the people of Enugu State and beyond, develop the rural areas, create job opportunities and ensure economic empowerment. The governor unveiled the university amid jubilation and excitement in accompany with the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Edward Ubosi, the Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Afojulu Raymond Ozoemena, representative of Hon. Justice Chima Centus Nweze of the Supreme Court of Nigeria,

the PDP governorship candidate in the state, Dr. Peter Mbah and his running mate, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, the Vice Chancellor of the medical university, Prof. James Ogbonna and other principal officers, among others. Speaking at a function shortly after the unveiling of SUMAS and presentation of the 5th Adada Lecture at the medical university, Governor Ugwuanyi who sounded fulfilled said: “After Zik (Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe) I’m the second person who brought university to Nsukka land.”

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

NEWS

NBC Issues 30-Day Ultimatum to CNN, BBC Other Foreign Broadcast Stations to Register Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued an ultimatum to all foreign broadcasters who have offices in Nigeria and are beaming signals into the country to come forward and register with the commission in the next 30 days. The Director General of NBC, Balarabe Shehu Ilelah, issued the ultimatum yesterday in Abuja at the presentation of provisional licenses to 67 broadcasters and organisations. The likes of CNN, BBC, VOA, Al Jazeera are affected by the current directives. He also noted that some foreign broadcasting stations that maintain offices in the country were

unregistered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). “Some of them are even producing content in Nigeria. They don’t have license from the NBC and that is considered to be illegal transmission. Once you are an illegal broadcaster that means you are undermining the security of the country and we are going to hand you over to the relevant security agencies for prosecution,” he warned. He said NBC was determined to collaborate with the security agencies to clamp down on illegal broadcasters in the country. He described the approval of the 67 licenses as a testimonial that President Buhari yearned for media pluralism and freedom of expression while imploring the

licensees to complement the gesture by promoting the country’s democratic values, national unity, and cultural heritage. “You are also required to reciprocate the gesture by putting the license into use within the timeframe provided and act responsibly and in accordance with the Act, Code and other extant laws

guiding broadcasting in Nigeria. Pay attention to safeguarding the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria through your broadc a s t . “ Yo u r p l a t f o r m m u s t not be used to campaign against any ethnic group in Nigeria, against any religion and to propagate sentiments,” Ilelah

s a i d. The NBC DG similarly called on IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and all other broadcast stations that are streaming online to register with the commission to avoid disconnection and prosecution. He also warned broadcasters that having a DTT or FM

license does not warrant a broadcaster to stream online as they are two different licenses. Ilelah also pronounced that as part of the requirements for the commencement of test transmission, broadcasters are now to send their staff for training at the newly established Nigeria Broadcast Institute.

Ebubeagu Won’t Function in Ebonyi for Now, Says Umahi Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki Following the Federal High Court judgement which disbanded the Ebonyi State command of the South-east Security Network, codenamed Ebubeagu, the state Governor, David Umahi, has said that the security outfit would not function in Ebonyi State until a Stay of Execution is granted. Umahi stated this yesterday during an enlarged State Security Council meeting in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital. He disclosed that the state has two new security outfits which will now operate in the state. The governor however thanked the State House of Assembly for passing the two sets of vigilante groups for Ebonyi State which process started in 2021 namely Ebonyi State Neighborhood Watch and Ebonyi State Vigilante Corps. “On the issue of Ebubeagu, I have directed that Ebubeagu will not function in the state until the Stay of Execution is granted and appeal is entered, this is in obedience to the rule of law and respect for our judiciary which I have great respect for, whether the judgement is good

for our people or bad, it is the judgement of the court, however, it must be noted that just about a month ago, another court of equal jurisdiction had passed a judgement restraining anybody from disbanding Ebubeagu. “What it means is that I have two judgements on the same subject and I could choose the one to obey if I were not a lover of the judiciary, however, I have decided to obey the later judgement that says that Ebubeagu should not function, so for now, Ebubeagu should not function while we process the Stay of Execution and appeal entered at Enugu and Ebubeagu when granted will begin to function again. “However, let me thank the House of Assembly for passing into law another two sets of vigilante outfits for Ebonyi State which process started in 2021 but they graciously passed it few days ago and that is Ebonyi State Neighborhood Watch. “Let me say that we have had this Neighbourhood Watch even before now far back as 2015 and they did tremendously very well so the law is back and they are empowered to function. “

Court Strikes Out Suit Seeking to Disqualify PDP Candidates in Enugu Gideon Arinze in Enugu A Federal High Court sitting in Enugu, yesterday struck out the suit seeking to disqualify all candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Enugu State from taking part in the 2023 elections. Recall that the case was instituted by the Enugu North Senatorial district candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chika Idoko. In the suit No: FHC/EN/ CS/217/2022, Idoko had dragged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the PDP and all its candidates in Enugu State to the court, claiming that the

PDP primary election was in contravention of Section 77 of the Electoral Act and should thus be voided. He also requested that the party be punished in line with extant provisions of the Section 84 of the same Act. Idoko’s argument through his counsel, Barr. T. Ekpenyong, was that the party submitted its membership register to INEC on May 6, 2022, less than 30 days to its primary election, contrary to the provisions of the law. He said a letter from the first defendant, which was admitted in evidence, showed that the PDP submitted the register in contravention of the Electoral Act.

POSITIONING FOR POWER… L-R: Ogun State First Lady, Bamidele Abiodun; Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Tunji Egbetokun; All Progressives Congress candidate for Obafemi-Owode/Odeda/Abeokuta Federal Constituency, Hon. Olumide Osoba; Governor Dapo Abiodun; APC Senatorial Candidate for Ogun Central, Salisu Shuaib and special adviser (Works) Akeem Adesina during APC campaign rally at Owode…yesterday.

Anyim: I Was Never Part of G5, But I’m Proud of Obi Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, has said that he was never part of the Integrity Group of five governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) known as G5. He, however, added that he was proud of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, because he has become a factor in the political equation of the 2023 presidential election. The group led by Nyesom Wike (Rivers), also have Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu) as members. The G5 drew the battle line when the main opposition party violated its own constitution by jettisoning the zoning arrangement, insisting that the National Chairman of the party, Senator Iyorchia Ayu, must resign.

However, Anyim, a former Senate President while reacting to a story published in THISDAY yesterday, denied being part of the group. He said: “My attention had been drawn to a front page story in Thisday Newspaper of 17/02/2023 with the above caption. I want to state upfront that at no time was I part of the G5 Governors and or leaders. “I am sufficiently knowledgeable about the turn of events leading to and after the PDP Presidential primaries and have my own convictions why I should not, in any way, be part of the G5 Governors and Leaders. “I want to state very clearly that after the Presidential primaries, I chose to remain in PDP as a leader and responsible citizen of Nigeria, who should and indeed do place Nigeria over and above my personal interest.” Ayim noted that his decision was reinforced by his experience from

working with President Goodluck Jonathan. He said it might be necessary to state that since after the PDP presidential primaries, he had remained a faithful member of the party, adding that he has no intention whatsoever to leave the party. Ayim noted: “Moreso, as one of my campaign credits during the primaries was that I have remained in the party since 1999 even when many others had moved out and back to the PDP many times. “On the issue of His Excellency Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate, I am to say that I was in the PDP presidential primaries with Peter Obi and others and at some point, all of us from South-east met and resolved to work together, to ensure the zoning of the presidential position to South-east and that whoever among us that got

the ticket should be supported by the others. “When the zoning failed, His Excellency Peter Obi pulled out and joined Labour Party while I continued to the end. To the credit of His Excellency Peter Obi, today, he has become a factor in the political equation of 2023 presidential election.” Anyim stressed that he was proud of Obi for doing what he could not do. He added: “For me, His Excellency Peter Obi winning or not should not be the issue but rather his ability to bring Labour Party from nowhere to a position of reckoning is a huge contribution to our political development. “He has broken an age long myth and should be seen as having immeasurably become a source of inspiration to the future generations of Nigerian politicians and indeed has taken his pride of place in the history of Nigerian politics.

Commonwealth: Transparent Elections Will Improve Investment Inﬂow to Nigeria Dike Onwuamaeze The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) has expressed hope that transparent conduct of the general elections that are scheduled to hold in Nigeria on February 25 and March 11 would enhance investment inflows that would boost the country’s economy. This hope was expressed by the Chairman of the CWEIC, Lord Marland, when he addressed the press in Lagos during his

recent visit to Nigeria to meet with current and prospective members of the council. He said: “I feel confident that after the elections things will start recharging again. The key for any organisation to invest in a country is rule of law, transparency, integrity of the deal and understanding the rules of engagement. I see Nigeria on a pathway to establishing that more clearly.” The Chairman of the CWEIC added that the

council was “hopeful that there will be fair, open and transparent elections that will follow democratic process and we will obviously support the democratically elected leader because we are nonpolitical. “I hope that we have a fair, open and transparent election so that people will know the direction of their travel to regenerate the economy.” He also said that Nigeria’s economy would be in full steam once the election is

over and the new government that would be sworn in would begin to give direction to the economy. “Nigerians are incredibly entrepreneurial and business focused people. I think that once the sense of mission and direction the new government will give, things will take off again,” he said. He, however, noted that the Commonwealth is faced with major challenges, which included climate change and youth unemployment.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

NEWS 1LJHULD ,PPLJUDWLRQ WR ,QWURGXFH PRUH 3DVVSRUW 5HIRUPV Michael Olugbode in Abuja

DESERVED ELEVATION… L-R: Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Isah Jere; Spokesman, Nigeria Immigration Service, Tony Akuneme and Deputy Comptroller General incharge of Human Resources, Usman Babangida decorating Akuneme with his new rank as Comptroller of Immigration...yesterday

Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Isah Idris Jere, has promised Nigerians to look forward to more passport reforms that would ease the pains currently associated with the system. The CG, disclosed that the new improved passport system on introduction would deepen passport reforms in Nigeria for excellence in the discharge of NIS mandate. Idris made the promise yesterday in Abuja at the decoration ceremony of the agency’s newly SURPRWHG VHQLRU R΀FHUV WR WKH ranks of Assistant Comptroller Generals (ACGs) and Comptrollers of Immigration. He said the agency has three

areas of focus, which are e-border management, passport reforms DQG VWDͿ ZHOIDUH RI ZKLFK LW KDV continued to make improvement by ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the attainment of these targets. He said: “Our statutory mandate as both law enforcement and service delivery agency demands that we masterfully deploy our best hands across service and operational windows to ensure that we regularly and consistently make enduring impressions on the minds of those we relate with. “We are leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit to excellently discharge our mandate through priority attention given to human capacity development DQG WLPHO\ SURPRWLRQ RI R΀FHUV DQG PHQ µ

APC Campaign: Tinubu Didn’t (PHQLNH 2Q\HMHRFKD 'UXP 6XSSRUW IRU $3& 3UHVLGHQWLDO Ask Governors to Ignore Buhari &DQGLGDWH 7LQXEX 2WKHU $3& &DQGLGDWHV Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied media reports that its presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, asked APC governors to ignore President Muhammadu Buhari’s broadcast and enforce the Supreme Court ruling on the recirculation of old Naira notes. Director, Media and Publicity, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement issued yesterday described the report as fake and demanded that the online newspaper recant

the story with “immediate HͿHFWµ He said: “Our attention has been drawn to a fake viral news published by the Peoples Gazette, claiming Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the APC presidential candidate has asked APC governors to ignore President Muhammadu Buhari’s broadcast and enforce the Supreme Court ruling on the recirculation of old Naira notes. “The publication by the platform is fake. The Gazette should recant the story with LPPHGLDWH HͿHFW “Tinubu never issued such

an order. Mr. Dele Alake, the APC-PCC Adviser on Media and Communications never issued such advisory on behalf RI $VLZDMX 7LQXEX µ Onanuga noted that the message quoted by the online platform was being randomly shared on WhatsApp, saying Mr. Dele Alake was not the author. He added: “Asiwaju Tinubu has been known, since the currency swap crisis started, to call for calm as the authorities try WR ÀQG RXW D VROXWLRQ WR WKH FXUUHQF\ FULVLV +H KDV RͿHUHG D six-point suggestion to lessen the anguish our people are facing

in trying to get money from the banks. “He has also held several meetings with President Buhari, his leader over the matter. It is thus inconceivable and unthinkable that he would instruct APC governors to disregard President Muhammadu Buhari’s order RQ WKH FXUUHQF\ PDWWHU µ Onanuga noted that the governors who have so far declared this line of action said clearly that they were acting on the ruling of the Supreme Court, the highest court in the land, stressing that Tinubu had QR LQÁXHQFH LQ WKLV GHFLVLRQ

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Chief Ikechi Emenike and the Deputy Chief Whip, House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha and other party chieftains have LQWHQVLÀHG WKHLU GULYH WR VHFXUH victory for the party’s presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the state. The party leaders, who were at the Umunneochi Local Government Area for the grassroots campaign rally of Abia APC were unanimous that the ruling party has the candidates that would drive development in Abia and

Nigeria in general if given the mandates. Emenike said that Abia should not be found missing in the victory basket of the APC presidential standard bearer, adding that the state would gain a lot by playing politics at the centre. He reminded Abians that there were strong indications that Tinubu would be the next president of Nigeria hence the need for Abia to go the way of APC. “If you don’t vote for Asiwaju you are demarketing our party LQ $ELD µ WKH $3& JRYHUQRUVKLS hopeful said, adding that all the states with high voter populations would vote for the ruling party and make Tinubu’s victory certain.

1NHUHͿ :RPHQ (QGRUVH 'U 0EDK 2WKHU (QXJX 3'3 &DQGLGDWHV 361 $GYRFDWHV :RUNIRUFH WR 7UDLQ Ahead of the 2023 general election, the women of Nkerefi in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State have declared their unalloyed support for the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Dr. Peter Mbah and other PDP candidates. The women made their stand known at their Special Meeting

held at Community Secondary School, Ohuani Amofu in Nkerefi where they trooped out in their thousands to endorse Mbah and PDP candidates for the National Assembly and State House of Assembly elections. Addressing the women during the special session, the President General of the Community (Women Wing) and former

deputy council chairman of Nkanu East LGA, Mrs. Ngozi Ogbonna, said that their endorsement of Mbah was predicated upon his track record in the private sector, humanitarian works on the platforms of the Peter Mbah Foundation, and his ambitious but viable manifesto. She also appreciated appreciated the contributions of PDP

candidates such as Senator Chimaroke Nnamani and Hon. Nnoli Nnaji in the development of the area, especially Nkanu East and Nkanu West. Mrs. Ogbonna urged the women to cast their votes for all PDP candidates, believing that the return of the PDP to power would boost the transformation of the area.

+XPDQLWDULDQ &ULVLV :LOO 3HUVLVW LQ 1RUWK HDVW $30 $GRSWV 'HVSLWH ,QWHUYHQWLRQV 6D\V 0LQLVWHU $WLNX 2NRZD·V -RLQW 7LFNHW Daji Sani in Yola

displacement, alarming food insecurity and malnutrition and The Minister of Humanitar- outbreaks of diseases such as LDQ $ͿDLUV 'LVDVWHU 0DQDJH- Cholera. She said the impact of climate ment and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, has said change coupled with high that despite interventions from prices of food and essential the federal government and commodities and increased humanitarian partners in the population movements have North-east millions of people aggravated the crisis. “Nigeria is on the frontline are still facing humanitarian FULVLV GXH WR UDYDJLQJ FRQÁLFWV of the climate crisis. Climaterelated shocks continue to in the region. The minister stated this dur- exacerbate the needs of the ing the launching of the 2023 most vulnerable people, as Humanitarian Response Plan witnessed in the historic by the United Nations held ÁRRGLQJ DFURVV WKH FRXQWU\ at the American University of ODVW \HDU DͿHFWLQJ PLOOLRQ Nigeria Hotel, Yola, Adamawa SHRSOH µ VKH VDLG According to her, despite State. At the event attended by D VLJQLÀFDQW VFDOH XS RI governors of Adamawa, Borno the humanitarian response and Yobe states including by the United Nations and partners on humanitarian humanitarian partners since response, Farouq explained that 2016 in support of government WKH FRQÁLFW LQ WKH 1RUWK HDVW HͿRUWV WKH KXPDQLWDULDQ FULVLV has caused widespread internal in North-east Nigeria persists.

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) has adopted the presidential candidate and vice presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic party, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for the February 25, 2023 election. National Chairman of the APM, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, disclosed this in a statement yesterday. Dantalle said the decision was taken at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Thursday. He said crucial national issues particularly the upcoming presidential election were deliberated upon. Part of the statement read: “After evaluating the democratic credentials of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the Allied Peoples’

Movement considers it appropriate in national interest to adopt them for president and vice president in the forthcoming election. “Atiku-Okowa ticket is the best and the only presidential ticket to rescue the nation that has been drifting to anarchy. “Nigeria needs a competent, experienced, visionary, resourceful and dynamic leader to resolve its multifarious challenges and chart a new course for the nation in next four years. ´$30 KDV FRQÀGHQFH LQ WKH leadership of Atiku-Okowa and will collapse its structures nationwide to campaign for their presidential ticket. “The party will however, contest other elective positions including Senate, House of Representatives, Governorship and State House of Assembly seats.

8QGHUJUDGXDWHV 3RVWJUDGXDWHV 3KDUPDFLVWV Pharmacists under the umbrella of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) have called for a conscious HͿRUW DW GHYHORSLQJ D KROLVWLF pharmacy workforce to cope with the training of pharmacists at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Nigeria. The idea which aimed at SURPRWLQJ DQ HͿHFWLYH DFDGHPLF and industrial linkage was one of the major points enunciated by the association at a two-day colloquium with the theme: ‘Repositioning Pharmacy in an Unstable Economy’ held in Lagos.

PSN President, Prof. Cyril Usifoh, explained that the “Colloquium endorsed the need for bilateral cooperation between the West Africa Postgraduate College of Pharmacists(WAPCP) and the universities in developing holistic pharmacy personnel driven workforce to cope with the training of pharmacists at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Nigeria.’’ According to him, it also recommended an improved programme of action to achieve the goals by building a template that would impact on the country’s healthcare delivery system.

2OX RI :DUUL 7KURZV :HLJKW Behind NDDC PPP Initiative Sylvester Idowu inWarri The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has thrown his weight behind the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)’s Public, Private Partnership (PPP) initiative in driving the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region. Ogiame Atuwatse III gave his support when he received the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, who led the management team of the commission to his palace on Thursday evening. The NDDC team included the Executive Director, Projects, Mr. Charles

Ogunmola and other directors of the Commission. The monarch commended the efforts of the NDDC in reactivating the construction of the Omadino-Escravos Road, as well as the Koko-Oghoye Road, noting that they would boost economic activities in his kingdom. “I am an ardent believer that if you want Nigeria to work, you should get the Niger Delta working. The Chinese have a saying which I have found to be true. If you want to end poverty, build a road. I assure you that when it concerns development in the Niger Delta region.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

WE ARE ALL OUT-OF-SCHOOL Josef Omorotionmwan canvasses urgent need to invest more in education

n times like these it is not easy to forget the old argument that has still not been resolved. It is an argument between the Ancient and the Modern. In Ancient, the young have grown. He recollects, with nostalgia, that when he was in standard one of the time, he could write letters that moved. In Arithmetic, he was already getting immersed in the Lacomb and was beginning to solve complex problems. But in the Modern, the young were still growing. Even in Primary VI, some who attempted to write letters had the letters returned to the sender because they could not address the envelopes adequately. The Ancient quickly concluded that the standard of education was falling. The Modern retorted that the standard of education was not falling. Rather, the content of education was changing. There are many problems which a 10-year-old modern child can easily solve and at that age, the Ancient had no clue. In those days, to be a Lawyer, you were required to be properly schooled in Latin, Greek, and English Language, and the rest plus the fact that you had to empty the Complete Works of Shakespeare into your small head. But today, while knowledge of the foregoing would be an added advantage, all that is required to study Law is proficiency in the English Language. In the remote past, you had to cast some five foolscap pages of jaw-breaking figures in Book-keeping and Accounts off your head lest your Trial Balance would not balance. Today, at the touch of a button, the answer will appear, why will you be punishing yourself, racking your brain? All you need now is to know the applicable formula and you are good to go – Just put in the figures and touch the button! Things are changing. Nothing here vitiates the fact that there are problems besetting our educational system in Nigeria. We are told that more than 20 million out-of-school children are in the country. This figure is staggering. That is one way of exploring why contestants in the forth-coming general elections are being confronted to tell Nigerians what they will do about the ugly situation if they win the elections. We should be looking at education in every facet of life – not just within the narrow confines of children. As staggering as the figure for out-of-school children looks, it is still the tip of the iceberg when applied to the whole population. In the paragraphs that follow, we intend to show that more citizens in other segments of our society are constructively out of school. We shall look at rural secondary schools. In Edo State, when Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole became Governor, all the secondary schools were virtually comatose. He quickly embarked on revamping the schools both in urban and rural areas. He invested so heavily in the schools that they even looked better than some universities. Each class was fitted with state-of-the-art furniture, five ceiling fans, floor and wall tiles and the rest. The Principal’s Office and the Staff Common Rooms were fully airconditioned. These were some of the contents of the Red Roof Revolution and it was a delight to behold. There were cases where some students refused to go home after class because such comforts were lacking in their homes. Life soon returned to public schools in Edo State. Parents withdrew their children from private schools to the renovated

2 +2

NO LEARNING IS GOING ON IN THE RURAL SCHOOLS. THEY ARE FULLY CAPTURED IN SCHOOL ENROLLMENT. THE STUDENTS DO MANY THINGS IN THE NAME OF SCHOOL. SOME OF THEM HAVE THEIR BIG BAGS. EVERY MORNING, THEY PUT ONE EXERCISE BOOK, A HOE, AND A CUTLASS IN THE BAG. INSTEAD OF HEADING FOR CLASS, THEY HEAD TO THE BUSH TO SEARCH FOR RABBITS

Government Schools. This did not last for long. Whether by accident or by design, the collapse of all the rural schools did not take any time after Comrade Oshiomhole’s departure. The rural schools were denied teachers. A big school with about 500 students on enrollment in the Junior and Senior schools would just have one Principal and one Teacher. No learning is going on in the rural schools. They are fully captured in school enrollment. The students do many things in the name of school. Some of them have their big bags. Every morning, they put one exercise book, a hoe, and a cutlass in the bag. Instead of heading for class, they head to the bush to search for rabbits. While available records continue to show those students as being in school, they are OUT-OF-SCHOOL! In the final year, things are neatly arranged so that the students come out with flying colours, with A1 and A2 in all the subjects, occasionally punctuated with C4 in a few subjects. These things are happening in many states and by the time the actual figures are known, the number of out-of-school children is perhaps doubled. That’s the making of Magic Centres all over the place. Year after year, these half-baked products stream into our urban areas in the name of going for further studies. A vast number of them cannot gain admission and they are not employable. They are out-of-school and out-of-work. They form a hidden population that is not captured in any bracket. This category is dangerous. If we think that the out-of-school children we failed to educate yesterday are contributing to the insecurity problem of today, those in the out-of-school youth category must constitute a time bomb, waiting to explode! No investment in education can be lost. We must quickly begin to mop up these half-baked ones to involve them in skill acquisition of sorts! To continue to ignore them is to turn the entire bush into snakes. What of our tertiary institutions that are on strike most of the time? Are the students in school or out of school? Any answer here is correct. It is like the bottle is half full or half empty. The adult segment of our population is out of school. In the Second Republic, there was this Adult Education Programme that gave adults who missed education at first an opportunity to get some education. Today, that program is no more. It should be brought back. Perhaps as a way of leaving for last that which affects us most, it is time to remind us that on Computer Literacy, we are all Out-Of-School. This is a world that is computer-driven. Whereas the rest of the civilized world has since realized the importance of computers and has therefore exposed their citizens to computers from very early in life, we have ignored this aspect all along. In fact, for too long, any young person seen with a laptop in Nigeria was regarded as a common criminal and a yahoo-yahoo person. We have, therefore, been left far behind. We are playing catch-up and catch up, we must! All these can be achieved by declaring a state of emergency on our current educational system. It can’t be done otherwise! Education is the main hub around which a nation’s development revolves, no nation ever gets it right by paying lip service to its education! Omorotionmwan writes from Canada

FALLACY OF VICARIOUS REMISSION OF SINS No prayers or blood of anyone can remit sin, contends O. Jason Osai

an knows ABSOLUTELY NOTHING about the mysterious entity generally referred to as God. In the spiritual enterprise of knowing God, man is groping in the dark. Humanity does not possess the competence to comprehend God; apprehension of God is in the illusions of NASA and other space agencies worldwide. Resultantly, Man’s perception of the persona of God is conjectural and, naturally, varies across the world. For instance, in Eastern Thought, God is feminine (loving and caring) while in Abrahamic religions, the same entity is masculine (egotistic, temperamental and sadistically punitive). Conversely, the cuneiform inscriptions on the tablets of Sumerians indicate that man’s creator is a civilization known as the Annunaki (Those from the sky). Note that Abraham was Sumerian whose traditions pre-date Abrahamic Religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam). It is therefore no wonder that the self-reference as a Plurality (a Civilization) is abundantly present in the creation accounts of the Abrahamic religions. This is furthered by the narratives of Tower of Babel and the encounters of Ezekiel in the Bible. Incidentally and rather curiously, this perspective of the persona of God is amply implied in numerous metaphoric anecdotes and parables of Tora, Holy Bible and Noble Quran. In African tradition, God is amorphous. People have the tendency of easily accepting only new information that is consistent with their beliefs but are skeptical of information that contradicts their beliefs. I have written severally

that a million barrels of the blood of Jesus (which he didn’t have) do not possess the potency to erase the slightest bad thought harbored against a fellow human being. If we take the essence of Galatians 6:7, which states thus “do not be deceived; God is not mocked. For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he reap also” and that of Revelations 22:12, which states that “I come quickly with my rewards in my hand to give unto every man according to his works”, then we’d realize that vicarious remission of sins, as constantly and consistently touted by the Christian Clergy, is merely permissive philosophy: it gives vent to the animalistic longings of the human mind for the atrocious acts that pander to the basic human instinct of self aggrandizement. Note further that these two injunctions credited to St. Paul and Jesus Christ, respectively, are universalistic in their relevance; they are spiritual injunctions given to humanity irrespective of creed. In other words, they apply in equal measure to Jews and Gentiles, the later being in reference to the rest of humanity. Note that the second injunction said “according to his works” not faith. Therefore, this humanly incomprehensible complex of the cosmos is on autopilot; the laws of Nature are firmly in place for people to react to and receive as they deserve. Beginning with my primary constituency, as teachers, God (Whoever or Whatever He, She, They or It may be) has given us charge of students to groom in learning and character for humanity. The least teachers should do is to be

conscious of God’s presence as they interact with the students. A student walks into a teacher’s office in distress for a reason that is on the teacher’s desk or that the teacher can assist with and the teacher demands gratification in cash or in kind (including the “horizontal installment”), the teacher has erred in the sight of God and no amount of the blood of Jesus can wipe it away; no amount of frenzied prayers laced with gyration and glossolalia by a million “men of God” can, either. Sure as sunrise in the morning, the essence of Galatians 6:7 and Revelations 22:12 SHALL apply in full measure and force. It is natural law. As it applies to teachers so it applies to every profession, calling and position in humanity. The blood of thousands who die on the roads and in hospitals because a politician and/or a bureaucrat has appropriated the funds meant for those facilities to self, family or friends is on the head of the officers. The tears shed by students whose education is frustrated because of the selfishness of authority figures cannot go unpunished. The list goes on in every direction of service to humanity. No prayers or blood of anyone can remit the sin. Treating others with the love and care that God has given humanity is the essence of praying without ceasing; it is positively playing God, and affirms the timeless adage “man is God to man”. It is God consciousness. “Therefore in all things, whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law” (Matt

7:12). Responding to the question of the great commandment, Jesus said thus: “Thou shalt love the Lord they God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments HANG ALL THE LAWS” (Matt 22:37-40). Matt 25:34-45 captures the works and deeds essence of salvation in Jesus’ ministry. Essentially, the verses entreat the faithful to treat everyone they come in contact with as they would treat the Lord saying “inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me”. These emphasize the works and deeds essence of salvation to the total exclusion of faith. A thawed mind looks beneath the metaphors, allegories and parables (MAP) of the Scriptures across credal hedgerows for expanded and enlarged perspectives, greater awareness and God consciousness. If every individual in humanity imbibes the above philosophy and behaves accordingly, then the abundant gifts of God to mankind will be applied to serve the needs and purposes of all. Given this, poverty, hunger, fear, strife, war and the vices that create conflict in humanity will be eradicated thereby ushering in peace and harmony in the world. There and then, man will have commenced the arduous spiritual journey to the Land of Canaan, which Plato referred to as the Ideal State and St. Augustine of Hippo called City of God. Prof Osai writes from Port Harcourt

FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Still a scarce commodity...

Building Collapse and Professionalism

Mallamai Tsibbu, Traditional Medicine and Witch Persecution in Kano

here is a strong link between witchcraft accusations and the activities of experts in traditional spirituality and Islam popularly known as Mallamai Tsibbu in Kano, Northern Nigeria. A recent case has highlighted this intriguing connection. A human rights ofﬁcer in the region has drawn the attention of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches to the case of Maimuna, 38 from Tarauni Local Government Area in Kano. Maimuna is a mother of four. She is divorced, and was denied custody of her children. The exhusband married her when she was 14. In addition to the allegation of witchcraft, she has suffered physical assault and family members have rejected and shunned her for being a witch. Traumatized, Maimuna needs rehabilitation to continue her normal life. She needs a job and a source of income. Since she ‘married’ as a child, she could not go to school or learn any skills. Before getting married the family sent her to hawk on the streets. Now divorced, she is unable to ﬁnd a job or fend for herself. On further inquiry, the AfAW noticed that the allegation of witchcraft is linked to local medical practices. A neighbor’s child took ill and the family took this child to a mallam who attributed the illness to witchcraft. Maimuna and the mother were accused. They were urged to heal the child. Fortunately, after performing some rituals, the sick child recovered but witchcraft stigmatization of Maimuna and the mother continued. Out of fear, Maimuna and the mother had to flee the community, and are currently displaced. The AfAW is exploring ways of working with the human rights office in Kano to assist Maimuna and other victims of witchcraft accusations in the area. Local medicine men known as Mallamai Tsibbu are key actors in witchcraft accusations and witch persecutions because they are scholars of traditional spirituality and Islam who identify witches and certify witchcraft. They provide witch hunting services to locals. Local sources told the AfAW that Mallamai Tsibbu were very popular among the Hausas before the advent of Wahabi reformist Islam. These medicine men combine the traditional Bori spirituality and Islam to heal people, communicate with djinns, and drive away spirits. Mallamai Tsibbu engage in soothsaying, palm reading, and prediction of the future using plates and sand. Sources in Kano say that, although Wahabi Muslims shun and discourage the practices of Mallamai Tsibbu, many people still patronize them including politicians. Like other local medicine practitioners, Mallamai Tsibbu impute witchcraft and get people to accuse and persecute their family and community members. As the case of Maimuna has illustrated there is a strong connection between local medical practices and witchcraft accusations. And witch persecutions would not stop until this link is broken. To

break this link, the health misinformation and disinformation that local medicine practitioners peddle need to be dispelled. Mallamai Tsibbu and other local medicine men and women impute witchcraft due to ignorance, and lack of knowledge and understanding of modern medicine and human biology. Measures must be taken to ensure that these so called traditional healers do not continue with these practices that endanger human lives and family relationships. Unfortunately, the Nigerian government is doing very little to checkmate the activities of these charlatans. Many people defend the quackery and charade going on in the name of local medicine as a form of African traditional medicine that Africans should proudly blindly uphold. They fail to take a critical look at the shady and shoddy traditional healing practices that local medicine men and women peddle. Africans should stop romanticizing the medical scam, extortion, and exploitation by Mallamai Tsibbu and other traditional healers. Witchcraft accusation is against the law in Nigeria and all who impute witchcraft or indulge in witch persecutions including the Mallamai Tsibbu should be brought to justice. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

he rate at which buildings collapse is deeply disturbing. The Nigerian Institute of Architects Abuja Chapter (NIAABC) has thus urged professionals and regulators in the sector to purge society of individuals who cause willful destruction throughout the construction industry. Yemi Adebiyi said that the regular occurrence of building collapses is a reproach to all participants in the sector - practitioners and regulators. “From all indications the construction sector is currently in a state of ‘war’ and all hands must be on deck to rid our society of elements both in public and private practice that seek to commit wanton destruction either by sheer greed or negligence,” he said. The continued occurrence of building failures, that are structural in nature always results in the loss of life and property. This malaise is an indictment to all players in the industry. The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) and its departments must continue to enforce the FCT’s development controls and to actively partner with all professionals within this sector with a view to curbing these incidents and restoring public confidence in the department and the building professions. The authorities must move from rhetoric to action. All necessary investigations should be carried out on collapsed buildings, and the results published, so that the perpetrators of these unwholesome acts brought to book. T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE “We emphasize once again DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU that every building must have MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO an architect and a team of allied DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU professionals (Engineers, Surveyors) CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI to help coordinate the design, EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI erection, and proper use of the THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE building,” said Adebiyi. “It is our position that all construction sites within the FCT should be marked with site information boards that T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D indicate who the design and EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA supervising architects and engineers GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, are - name, professional affiliations, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI contact information, etc. This action, DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE if implemented vigorously will go a DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH long way to sanitize the sector as no ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI licensed professional will condone CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI sharp practices that endanger human DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO lives.” A word is enough for the TO SEND EMAIL: ﬁrst name.surname@thisdaylive.com wise. Ayo Ajayi, Abuja

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

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PRESSING FOR POWER… Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, High Chief Ikechi Emenike, acknowledging cheers from the crowd during the ﬂag oﬀ of the party’s local government campaign tour held at Ndoru Community Primary School, Ikwuano...recently

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James Emejo in Abuja

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

RingTrue 08054699539

Yemi

Adebowale

yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

The Trauma of Naira Seizure By Buhari

his is war. Yes, bullets are flying. There is already hunger and anger. Lives are being lost. Many of those alive are frustrated and distressed. The draconian instruction causing the deaths, anarchy and frustration is that the N200, N500, and N1,000 notes have been redesigned and Nigerians must deposit the old notes latest February, 2023 when they would cease to be legal tender. Well, President Muhammadu Buhari has extended the swap deadline of N200 notes to April 10 and directed that the old N200 should now recirculate with the new notes. Will this really make any difference after confiscating about N2.7 trillion from the people? It’s an emphatic no. The challenge is more about getting new notes and the CBN is incapable of providing the required quantity in the short run. For me, Buhari shouldn’t be talking about a new cut-off date for N200 notes because the facts on ground do not support expectations that sufficient new notes would have been printed and circulated by then. Recirculating old N200 notes can’t solve the problem because of the huge backlog of demands. The old N500 and N1000 notes must be returned and allowed to recirculate with the new ones, at least till the end of the year. Nigerians have been battling with this currency swap war declared by Buhari and the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, since December 15 last year. It is shocking that Buhari and Emefiele only agreed to cosmetic changes last Thursday despite the pain nationals are experiencing. This is the first time since the Nigerian civil war (1967 to 1970) that a large number of people won’t be able to access their hard-earned money in banks, leading to hunger, frustration, business closures and numerous traumas. Families have money in the banks, yet, are struggling to pay for food, medicals, transport and other necessities of life. Nigerian households and firms already facing elevated financial pressures from prolonged high inflation/economic recession, compounded by external food and fuel price shocks are being further pummeled by Naira swap. The man who promised Nigerians change is looking the other way while agony continues to ravage our land. The CBN mischievously calls it Naira redesign policy. In actual sense, it is a Naira confiscation policy by our President. This is because Nigerians can’t take their old Naira notes to the banks and have everything changed into new ones. In most cases, people deposit the old notes without getting a single new note. By February 10, the CBN had

This is the ﬁrst time since the Nigerian civil war (1967 to 1970) that a large number of people won’t be able to access their hard-earned money in banks, leading to hunger, frustration, business closures and numerous traumas. Families have money in the banks, yet, are struggling to pay for food, medicals, transport and other necessities of life. The man who promised Nigerians change is looking the other way while agony continues to ravage our land seized N2.7 trillion but printed and distributed only N300 billion. This is just about 11 percent of what was seized. It is deliberate. The plan is to reduce the Naira in circulation and force everybody to embrace digital transactions. It cannot work within such a short period in a country where just about nine percent of the population are making payments by digital means. This is the truth that must be told. Payment digitisation is a basic challenge that will take time and require a methodical approach, especially to address inclusion issues. Our President and the CBN governor have decided to ignore the fact that there will be hitches in online payment platforms of banks because of the sudden surge transactions. That is what has been happening in the last two months. Failed electronic transactions are causing so much pain to Nigerians. Besides, petty payments are still done with cash in developed climes. So, what nonsense digital payment is the CBN talking about? Because the CBN has printed just about 11 percent of the Naira confiscated, ATMs of banks across beloved Nigeria are still epileptic. Banks are dispensing very little across their counters. Some frustrated Nigerians are spending nights at ATMs, hoping to access the machine first, immediately cash is loaded. Banking halls have become war zones. Several bank branches have been vandalised and bank workers attacked by frustrated customers.

A Professor of Psychiatry at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Kaduna State, Taiwo Sheikh rightly noted that Naira scarcity will worsen cases of suicide in the country and plunge a lot of Nigerians into mental health crises that will require hospital admission: “Nigerians no longer enjoy optimum mental well-being as a result of recent happenings in the country. This scarcity of naira has already increased the rate of mental illness in the country. For an adult to strip himself naked in the bank is not normal.” I’m shocked that Buhari and Emefiele have refused to listen to the voice of wisdom on this cash swap calamity and the challenges faced by Nigerians across the country. The International Monetary Fund was apt when it counselled the CBN to extend the swap beyond the first deadline of February 10, adding, “In light of hardships caused by disruptions to trade and payments due to the shortage of new bank notes available to the public, in spite of measures introduced by the CBN to mitigate the challenges in the banknote swap process, the IMF encourages the CBN to consider extending the deadline, should problems persist in the next few days leading up to the February 10, 2023 deadline.” On its part, the World Bank said: “Periodic currency redesigns and demonetisation of older notes are normal internationally. However, they usually involve transition periods of one year or longer so as to minimise economic disruption.” The World Bank also expressed concern

Umahi Has Messed up Ebubeagu

overnor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State has terribly messed up Ebubeagu, a well-conceived regional security outfit, with his mischiefs. This governor has swiftly turned Ebubeagu into a tool for oppressing his political opponents. As a result, the security outfit designed to protect the people of Ebonyi State is now synonymous with human rights abuses, extortion, illegal arrest and illegal use of firearms. It did not come as a surprise, when Justice Riman Fatun of the Federal High Court, Abakaliki, reprimanded Ebonyi’s Ebubeagu early this week and ruled that it should be disbanded. Justice Fatun declared that Ebubeagu had no powers to mount roadblocks on federal highways and major roads in Ebonyi State and ordered that personnel of the security outfit be disarmed. The judge also ordered the Ebonyi State Government to, as a matter of urgency, pay N50 million to a former Commissioner for Information in the state, Chief Abia Onyike, who was abducted in November 2022 and tortured for over two hours by the security outfit. Well, the illegality of Ebubeagu in Ebonyi State

as declared by the judge may not be sustained by a higher court, but the conviction of the security outfit for the illegal arrest, detention and torture of Onyike on November 11, 2022 is sound and speaks volumes. It is a validation that Umahi has been bullying everybody with Ebubeagu. So sad. The list of Umahi’s preys is growing daily. Labour Party’s Senatorial candidate for Ebonyi South, Linus Okorie was also a victim. The “crime” committed against Umahi is Okorie’s growing popularity in Ebonyi South, where the governor is also running for the senatorial slot under APC. Umahi unleashed Ebubeagu on Okorie for “dealing in hard drugs” in his night club. What is the business of Ebubeagu with drug traffickers? Has Ebubeagu taken over the responsibility of NDLEA? Many will also remember how Umahi recently harassed and dehumanised PDP’s Publicity Secretary in the state, Chika Nwoba, “for circulating fake news in the social media.” Because Nwoba was punching holes in the rambling administration of Umahi, with facts and figures, the badly shaken Umahi decided to send Ebubeagu after him. He was arrested,

Umahi

thoroughly beaten and handed over to the police. This is how Ebubeagu works under Umahi. One thing is certain: Umahi will pay for all his atrocities after his tenure.

about the timing of the Naira swap and further noted that rapid demonetisation could be costly to small businesses and poor and vulnerable households. It added that it was highly unlikely that digital payments would increase fast enough to cover up for the shortage of new notes: “This concern is based on international experience which suggests that rapid demonetizations can generate significant short-term costs, with small-scale businesses, and poor and vulnerable households, including in rural areas, being particularly affected as they are liquidity-constrained and rely heavily on day-to-day cash transactions.” The key point from the World Bank and IMF’s interventions is that cash swap should take at least one year. This is the global standard. All forces of good must hammer this into the heads of Buhari and Emefiele. The Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, who is also one of the economic advisers of Buhari recently raised the alarm about this disjointed Naira programme. Rewane projected that Nigeria would suffer a total GDP loss of $18 million and total man hour loss of 120 hours (five days) per month due to the disruption in economic activities triggered by poor implementation of the currency swap. Some state governors are at the Supreme Court to challenge the Naira swap programme. This is good for our democracy. The governors through their umbrella body, the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) made sensible points against the poorly-managed Naira swap programme. Unfortunately, our President is unwilling to listen. The NGF declared: “It is our considered view that what the CBN is at present pursuing is a currency confiscation programme, not the currency exchange policy envisaged under Section 20 (3) of the CBN Act, 2007. Currency confiscation in the sense that the liquidity provided to the general public is grossly insufficient due to the restrictions placed on the amount that can be withdrawn regardless of the amount deposited. “The current approach of the CBN raises concerns about the respect for the civil liberties and rights of Nigerians as it relates to their freedom to use legitimately earned income as they so wish. The Forum believes that to deploy a cashless policy and deepen digital transactions, the best practice around the world is to create a suite of incentives to attract customers; rather than a draconian approach as we have witnessed in the last three months.” Now, a quick recall of why the CBN plunged this country into this Naira redesign mess. The CBN tells us that the programme is targeted at controlling currency in circulation as well as curbing counterfeiting and ransom to terrorists; that it would promote the integrity of a local legal tender, the efficiency of its supply, efficacy in the conduct of monetary policy and financial stability. It will also help drive its cashless policy. For me, these are all balderdash. Only failed governments raise points like these ones. The Buhari government is obviously one of them. If President Buhari and his CBN truly want to strengthen the Naira and turn around Nigeria’s economy, then, they must go beyond Naira redesign. According to the IMF, there must be decisive fiscal and monetary tightening to secure macroeconomic stability, combined with structural reforms to improve governance. The CBN must fully sterilise financing of fiscal deficits and also phase out credit intervention programmes, says the IMF. The global institution also urged the Nigerian government to finalise securitisation of the CBN’s Ways and Means Advances, while emphasizing that the bank’s budget financing should strictly adhere to the statutory limits. It called for a continued move toward a unified and market-clearing foreign exchange rate by dismantling various exchange rate windows at the CBN. This is the way forward for Nigeria.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

TRIBUTE

Tribute to Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Tetsekela Anyiam-Osigwe

uring this difficult time in our lives, we are involuntarily called, once again, to examine life in all its complexity. This moment implores us to remember that we are not all-knowing. It reminds us of the deep uncertainty that God tells us that we must confront on our early sojourns while having an unshakable faith in Him and the mystery of our existence: the uncertainty of who we are and what we are, of what we know and what we do not know, of why we are here and what we are here for; the uncertainty of what we leave behind and why we leave those things behind. Two things were deemed the most important to Peace Marie Ogechi Anyiam-Osigwe (PMO) and she would tell anyone this freely: family and being the undiluted creative pushing for Africa to be fully recognised in the global film industry. Both saw her give more than herself, even and especially at the expense of herself. She leaves both behind, perhaps with the knowledge that only God and now she has, of God’s own plan for the manifestation of His glory within those she loved and the legacy she so earnestly and faithfully crafted. For her, family was and remains her father’s greatest legacy to her. In a predominantly patriarchal society, Papa made her believe it was not about gender but about personality and carriage. Even in the midst of seven older brothers, she found herself standing on an equal footing. She never felt small or inferior. If anything, she was rightly emboldened to cement her place as an irreplaceable member of the family, becoming a mother, an aunt and a positive change agent cultivating a deeper sense of togetherness. The only thing that equaled her commitment to family was her passion for the film industry. More than anyone else, she promoted the creative industry not only in Nigeria, but also in Africa. Last year, she celebrated nearly four decades within this industry. She remained at the forefront of the process of expanding the business of film in Africa and making the industry a major contributor to the national economies of African countries and a global player on the world stage. As one of the African film industry’s leading lights, she cultivated the next generation of African film makers while rewarding the current generation of filmmakers across the country, the continent and the diaspora, who, in many ways, had started this journey with her. Several national and pan-continental programs and initiatives were created with her at the helm; consciously, productively and constructively bridging the divide between African filmmaking communities and the rest of the global marketplace. She did not just do one thing, but did it all: CEO and Founder of the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Founder and Chair of the African Film Academy (AFA), President of the Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria, a Nigerian national honour recipient as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), a former financial director of the Filmmakers Cooperative of Nigeria (FCON), a past Vice President of the Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria, a TED Fellow, a jury member of international

Peace

film festivals, a former Creative Director and Co-founder of the Africa International Film Festival, a published poet with three books to her name, a former television talk show host, the owner of a publishing company, the owner of a film studio, and a producer and a director of multiple Nollywood films. Despite everything she had going on personally that could and would have stopped any other person, she relentlessly maintained her unyielding commitment to the creative industry. In a given year, she might have had to be in Berlin, then would go on to receive an award in California, then make a speech in Washington D.C, fly to Kigali to make yet another speech before finding herself on a flight back to Lagos to meet with her home-based team. This was, in many ways, her breakdown point, but she wanted to, and she did, continue. She often said she could not stop; that the work was not complete. Indeed, she was the personification of resilience. Perhaps most importantly, she simply wanted to do it for African cinema. It was not about her individually. It was not even about the money. It

was about the passion to promote and celebrate creative excellence in Africa. With every opportunity, she was speaking to anyone who would listen about the potential for African cinema to be a creative heavyweight in the world. She never knew, until she began this journey, that her body could generate a much-needed extra supply of energy as far as she was doing exactly what she was passionate about. This is why we cannot even begin the process of fully comprehending her immense contribution to her community, the country, the continent, and the world at large, which produced an unrivalled legacy of accomplishments globally and within the creative industry for nearly four decades. One might never know what she was going through internally because her strength knew no possible bounds. In many ways, this is why her transcendence is too difficult to understand, but perhaps this is also why, as difficult as it may be, she would implore us to try to accept the unthinkable. Perhaps there are some things, the knowledge of which are reserved for those blessed and privileged enough

to attain perfect alignment with the Chi and ultimately reach a divine and conscious unity with God. Therefore, it is the case that we must be resolved, and never resigned, armed with the belief that earthly life in all its perplexity will always be a complex phenomenon in which the puzzle is never meant to be solved by those left behind. Yet, to the degree that we are assured in the divine knowledge that there is indeed a Supreme Being who governs the universe, we should remain hopeful in the knowledge that “Ogechikamma,” it is God’s time that is the best. When I had to give her an answer about life over ten years ago at such a naive age, I said this in part: Life is a string of moments. Actions define moments. Decisions define actions. Character defines decisions. Personality defines character. And death is outlived by personality. It is not until now that I am realising why she told me that she held onto that so deeply. She willingly surrendered to God’s will in everything, letting Him drive her moments, mediate her actions, guide her decisions, shape her character, and direct her personality. When the time came for Him to decide to bring back his daughter into His heavenly presence, she knew that those she was going to leave behind will eventually understand that as far as God remained at the wheel of earthly life, death was only transitory. It was another moment, orchestrated by God, in the long string of moments that define life. Indeed, Ogechikamma, it is God’s time that is the best. She fiercely believed that there was a Chi in everyone - that God manifests Himself within man, so that man was blessed with the presence of God within himself. She believed that the Chi brings hope and that the Chi controls human destiny. She said it was evident even in her name, “Ogechi.” So, even if we might like to have things done at our own time, even if we do not understand our present reality, even if we struggle to comprehend the ‘why’ and we fail to make sense of the ‘how,’ we must be reminded that it is always subject to the will of each individual’s Chi. And, in our asking God of the why, in our need to understand this ultimate test from the Chi of the universe, perhaps the answer is not for us to know exactly. Even if it is hard, we cannot question anymore. In her own words, the Chi never promised an easy ride. The Chi never said to us that life is going to be easy; what the Chi did say to us was that this is what we have at the moment. Deal with it, cope with it, and in time, we will come to understand it, knowing full well that Ogechikamma, it is God’s time that is the best. May the Chi be with her as she begins her eternal journey, shining always in the light of God’s everlasting presence. May God, in this everlasting presence, hold her closely as she dwells forever in His heavenly place. May God, in His infinite mercy and bountiful love, also give us all her children, her family, her friends, and her colleagues - the strength we need during this very difficult period. Beyond it, may He find us worthy enough to receive the blessing of the divine knowledge and complete acceptance that truly Ogechikamma, it is God’s time that is the best.

Therefore, it is the case that we must be resolved, and never resigned, armed with the belief that earthly life in all its perplexity will always be a complex phenomenon in which the puzzle is never meant to be solved by those left behind. Yet, to the degree that we are assured in the divine knowledge that there is indeed a Supreme Being who governs the universe, we should remain hopeful in the Michael Anyiam-Osigwe knowledge that “Ogechikamma,” isTetsekela a PhD student at Princeton Uniit is God’s time that is the best versity in United States.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Uzoamaka Aniunoh Explores Love in Directorial Debut Ferdinand Ekechukwu

ast rising Nollywood actress, Uzoamaka Aniunoh has taken a leap in her career with her directorial debut titled, ‘Love Language’. The movie explores the complexities of love and relationships. It tells the story of Chioma, played by Uzoamaka Aniunoh, and Abdul, played by Adam Garba, as they GHDO ZLWK WKHLU ORYH GLͿHUHQFHV Their relationship is put to test following a conversation which reveals a lot about their lives that they didn’t know before. ‘Love language’ highlights the importance as well as the challenges of intertribal relationships, RͿHULQJ IXQGDPHQWDO KXPDQ TXHVWLRQV URRWHG LQ FXOWXUDO GLͿHUHQFHV DQG WROHUDQFH It presents people truthfully and without judgment, doing what they deem best to be heard, seen, and understood. Written and directed by Uzoamaka, ‘Love Language’ is a mirror through which we see ourselves. Produced by Josh Olaoluwa, and shot by Joseph Adeniyi Omobulejo, with Orire Nwani as the creative producer, while Mudiakeoghene Ori-Jesu is the executive producer. Uzoamaka who embarked on her acting FDUHHU LQ LV ÀUVW LQVSLUHG E\ EHLQJ DQ artist. She is armed to create, practice, and demonstrate art in all its forms. According to

her, “I’m exploring directing, and who knows, I may paint pictures in months from now. The process of creating something out of your imagination inspires me.” She further explains that it’s incredibly powerful to think of something and then create it so honestly that it moves the people who consume it. Adding that, “The one challenge I was faced with in the process of making ‘Love Language’ was that I had to direct and act at the same time... It wasn’t, however, a challenge that disrupted my creativity because I had the best team working with me. “My creative producer, Orire Nwani, made sure I followed the directions I communicated without ZRUU\LQJ DERXW LWV UHÁHFWLRQ RQ screen. He had my back completely. ,I KH IHOW GLͿHUHQWO\ KH·G KDYH me watch it and decide. Other than that, my team made sure I had nothing to worry about.” On what’s next for her, Aniunoh who is fortunate about her directorial debut said “I am writing a featureOHQJWK ÀOP DW WKH PRPHQW 7KHUH·V no pressure at all, but it’s special. And when it’s done and ready, \RX ZLOO EH WKH ÀUVW WR NQRZ µ

Uzoamaka Aniunoh

Shereepha: I Love Looking Sexy Sherifat Alarape aka Shereepha is an Afro-pop/Afro-Reggae artiste, with inspiration and inﬂuences across generations from the likes of Michael Jackson, Sean Paul and Diana King. The budding Lagos-based singer/songwriter and aspiring model tells Ferdinand Ekechukwu about her music, challenges and inﬂuences

M Myself, My Music

y name is Sherifat O. Alarape, stage name Shereepha. I’m a performing artiste. A baker, a business woman and an aspiring model. I started recording music professionally in 2011. I was originally just a songwriter. I like to call my style conscious music; Afro Reggae or Afro Pop. My Origin, Background I was born and raised on Lagos Island. That’s to say I’m a full breed of Lagos. My family is a large one originally from Kwara and I have Port Novo roots too. All my education was done here in Nigeria but I can’t say I

spent all my life here in Naija though.

to be consistent as well.

My Songs, Future Projects I’m working on album. And a video as ZHOO , GURSSHG D VLQJOH WLWOHG $<$*$ RͿ the album in September. We are working on the visuals. I have about eight songs online and one featured legendary Fuji sensation Obesere. The sky is just the beginning. You can check @sherephamusic for my songs. Shereepha music is taking over.

,QVSLUDWLRQ ,QÁXHQFHV )DYRXULWH Nigerian Artiste The late Michael Jackson is my greatest inspiration of all time. My songwriting skills comes from him. He is everything. But I remember when I was about 6 years old, I picked interest in Diana King’s sounds, any sounds of reggae DW DOO $QG LQ ZKHQ , ÀUVW VDZ Sean Paul on TV, I knew the style I truly wanted to do. Omah Lay... He’s got the vibes I like.

Experiences and Challenges Oh my music. It’s the loveliest of sounds I ever heard. It’s been a journey of ups and downs and especially the most wonderful experience ever. The challenge for me is really funding. Connections may come easily but the funds are very important too. And have

My Style, Performance Appeal (Lol)... It depends on my mood. I love looking sexy and at the same time wanna just look tomboyish.

Shereepha

Every Day is Valentine for DJ Cuppy, Ryan Taylor Ferdinand Ekechukwu

DJ Cuppy and Ryan Taylor

opular Nigerian disc jockey, DJ Cuppy is having the best time of her life. Since her engagement to the British boxer Ryan Taylor last November, the billionaire heiress has roved social media with every little details of their escapade till date. It is no surprise that on the eve of Valentine’s Day Cuppy showed RͿ WKH JLIW VKH UHFHLYHG IURP KHU 5\DQ Taking to her Instagram page, Cuppy whose real name is Florence Otedola UHYHDOHG D ERXTXHW D ORYH FDUG DWWDFKHG to it, some chats and foot fetishism. On WKH FDUG 5\DQ D΀UPHG KLV ORYH IRU &XSS\ while noting that they will spend the rest of their lives together. The card reads: “To the love of my life and my soon to be wife, we will be together for the rest of our lives”.

Responding to him, Cuppy wrote: “Every day is Valentine’s day with this one Ryan Taylor”. Prior to the Val gift, Cuppy attributed her delight to her British boxer in a series of Instagram stories. The Gelato crooner stated that she last felt this well in a long time. Cuppy, who celebrated her 30th birthday last month, confessed that her life is just getting started. She went on to say that there is nothing greater than falling in love with one’s best friend. “Nothing better than being in love with your best friend. I haven’t been this happy in a very long time. Not my life starting at 30.” In another post, Cuppy described him as the “most amazing man in the world”, saying to “him I love, I love you…” Days back, Cuppy was seen popping high

in a club with Ryan. . . Cuppy had recently shared intimate photos and videos of them together on her page to VKRZ RͿ KRZ KDSS\ VKH LV DQG KHU PDQ dropped a comment in pidgin. She joked WKDW VKH GRHVQ·W QHHG ÀOWHUV DQ\PRUH DV her happiness is her favorite makeup. “No Filter because happiness is my new fave makeup”. Taking to her comment section, 5\DQ 7D\ORU MRNLQJO\ TXLSSHG WKDW *RG has buttered his bread. This implies that the boxer is grateful as God has answered his prayers. “God don butter my bread ooo”. ReactLQJ &XSS\ TXHVWLRQHG LI LW·V WKH SRSXODU agege bread God has buttered. “Agege bread Abi”. Ryan’s comment about his ‘buttered bread’ sparked reactions with many social media users and Cuppy’s IROORZHUV VWDWLQJ GLͿHUHQW VKDGHV RI IXQQ\ opinion. Snippets of Cuppy’s engagement WR WKH %ULWLVK ER[HU ÀUVW VXUIDFHG RQ WKH internet on November 20, 2022.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Inkblot Productions, Biodun Stephen Collaborate for ‘Big Love’ Ferdinand Ekechukwu

ovie production house, Inkblot will in a couple of weeks make public the cast of its forthcoming movie titled, “Big Love.” Just as it will commence shooting in the coming weeks in Lagos. The cast unveiling will comprise some of the star actors the company has worked with in recent past. Recall that award-winning director and founder of Shutterspeed Projects, Biodun Stephen was recently named by Inkblot Productions to write and direct the new movie. The movie is one of Inkblot’s four ÀOPV VODWHG IRU WKHDWULFDO UHOHDVH LQ A romantic drama, Big Love explores the eruption of love between Adil, a young and passionate man chasing his dreams and Adina, a focused and independent woman making ends meet at a graduate training camp. Adina’s fears and a secret threaten their budding love. Speaking of the

for us and one that will undoubtedly yield exceptional results,” she said. Sharing her thoughts on the collaboration, Stephen said: “Inkblot Productions is at the forefront of African cinema, and I am excited to be working with them on this new project. “I believe that together we can create a WUXO\ JURXQGEUHDNLQJ ÀOP µ ¶%LJ /RYH LV ELOOHG IRU D -XO\ WKHDWULFDO UHOHDVH 7KH ÀOP ZLOO EH FR SURGXFHG E\ .HPH %HGIRUG ZKR ZDV SDUW RI ¶.LQJ RI %R\V· ¶1HZ 0RQH\· DV ZHOO DV WKH ODWHVW WLWOH ² ¶/RYH in a Pandemic’.” Stephen’s who has a good number of movie credits to her is already working RQ WKH VHTXHO RI KHU PXFK IDYRXUHG ÀOP ¶%UHDGHG /LIH· 6WHSKHQ·V IHDWXUH ÀOP %UHDGHG /LIH ZDV well-received at the cinemas and was a FRQWLQHQWDO KLW RQ 1HWÁL[ 7KH ÀOP ZDV R-L: Damola Ademola, Zulumoke Oyibo, Biodun Stephen, and Naz Onuzo DOVR QRPLQDWHG DW WKH $IULFD 0DJLF 9LHZHUV· &KRLFH $ZDUGV LQ WKH %HVW $FWUHVV LQ D &RPHG\ DQG WKH %HVW 0RYLH LQ :HVW exciting partnership, co-founder of Inkblot celebrated directors with a distinct voice that Africa categories. Some of her other scripts and Productions, Zulumoke Oyibo expressed FRQVWDQWO\ ÀQGV KHU DXGLHQFH :H DUH H[FLWHG directorial include The Visit, Tiwa’s Baggage, delight in the upcoming project. to have her on board for our upcoming -RED $ 6LPSOH /LH +DSS\ (QGLQJ 3LFWXUH “Biodun Stephen is one of Nigeria’s most PRYLH 7KLV LV D VLJQLÀFDQW SDUWQHUVKLS 3HUIHFW DQG 3URJUHVVLYH 7DLORUV &OXE

Obi Emelonye Celebrates 20th Wedding Anniversary Ferdinand Ekechukwu

wo decades of matrimony to some couple might seem like magic, especially in entertainment industry where marriages have asVXPHG GLͿHUHQW PHDQLQJ going by recent trend. But IRU 1ROO\ZRRG ÀOPPDNHU 2EL (PHORQ\H twenty years in marriage has given him reason to renew his vow to love his wife and reminisce on these years together as husband and wife. To mark the anniversary of their wedding ODVW 6XQGD\ )HEUXDU\ WKH PXOWLSOH DZDUG ZLQQLQJ ÀOPPDNHU WRRN WR VRFLDO PHGLD WR celebrate his beloved wife, Amaka. According to the London-based director cum lecturer, the occasion was reveled with an intimate anniversary dinner hosted by his close friends DW D 1LJHULD UHVWDXUDQW LQ *UD\V (VVH[ ZKHUH

they wined and dined. In one of his updates on Instagram, (PHORQ\H SRVWHG D SLFWXUH RI KLPVHOI DQG KLV ZLIH ZLWK WKH FDSWLRQ ´ WK RI )HEUXDU\« WK )HEUXDU\ ZDV WKH GD\ , FDOOHG you my wife without knowing your name. 6DPH GDWH LQ P\ SHRSOH SHUIRUPHG the customary marriage rites that sealed RXU XQLRQ 6DPH GDWH LQ , VLJQHG P\ life over to you in front of God, friends and family.” Thanking his wife for her love and evHU\WKLQJ (PHORQ\H QRWHG WKDW ´7RGD\ WKH WK RI )HEUXDU\ , FHOHEUDWH GHFDGHV of being called your husband by renewing my vow to love you with all my soul and to be the best man I can be. Thank you Obi and Amaka for giving everything you are and more. +DSS\ ZHGGLQJ DQQLYHUVDU\ P\ TXHHQ«µ %R\ /DVW )OLJKW WR $EXMD 7K\ :LOO EH 'RQH 2EL (PHORQ\H LV RQH RI WKH PRVW SUROLÀF and most recently, Badamasi, Black Mail, producers and directors in Nollywood with Money Miss Road, and others to his credit. DPD]LQJ ÀOPV OLNH 2Q\H 2]L 7KH 0LUURU Once speaking about his marriage,

(PHORQ\H VDLG ´7KLV LV D ZRPDQ ZKR KDV constantly re-invented herself. It demands constant work on both parties to try and stay appealing to your partner. You are not going to say because I am married, I’m not going to look after myself again. No, you have to constantly re-invent yourself; constantly remain appealing and sexy to your partner. I do that and my wife does it. I guess that’s why we have the kind of marriage we have after years of being together. “It’s easy to get carried away in our industry where women will do everything to lure you to their side. You need the grace of God, self-discipline, steadfastness and the fear of God to survive in the movie industry and not to riddle your life with scams, gossips and scandals.” (PHORQ\H PHW KLV ZLIH RQ WKH VHW RI ¶)LUH 'DQFHUµ D ÀOP SURGXFHG E\ 7FKLGL &KLNHUH LQ 7KH\ DUH EOHVVHG ZLWK WKUHH ORYHO\ children – a girl and two boys.

TRAVELOGUE

A Global Moment in Time Kunle Ogunfuyi

n the fall of 2021, the U.S. Department of States, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (Office of International Visitors) in collaboration with World Learning and other sister agencies set out for the first time in the history of the oldest professional exchange programme to focus on photojournalists who risked their lives documenting the challenges and opportunities in the Covid Era around the world. The programme, “A Global Moment in Time,” IVLP Global Moment in Time, Participants is a multi-regional project of the U.S. DepartmentofState’sInternationalVisitorLeadership Louisiana, Oregon and New Mexico. Programme (IVLP) that brought together 67 The groups converged at St Pete Florida to photojournalists from 53 countries. All these share experience before returning home. journalistswereindividuallyselectedbytheU.S. embassy in their respective home countries. Washington DC Tour The year-long programme included a monthWashington DC, the U.S. capital, is a comlong virtual bit from October 2021, a bridge pact city with 75 National historic landmarks programmecoveringmonthlygalleryexhibition, which includes, memorials and monuments to panel discussions with activities that enabled presidents, wars, servicemen, and individuals. participants to stay connected and a two-week It is home to The White House, the Capitol, the in person programme in the United States. The Supreme Court building and the famous Abrain-person programme was also an expository ham Lincoln memorial. You cannot get enough exploit to the reality of the States. of the Capital in one or two tours because of All participating photojournalists landed in so much stops. Washington DC before embarking on group Surprisingly, the streets and parks of DC are visit to five states covering; Texas, Minnesota, also home to homeless people with some of

them with stories that are unveriﬁable within my given time to back their situations. Someclaimedtheyareforgottenwarveterans; others are foreigners including a Nigerian with storiestogetsympathyorsupport,although,he waslookingphysicallyhealthywithhisshopping cart holding his belongings with a smile. If truth be told, not all that glitters is gold with the land, do not “Japa” because it’s trending without a legitimate and proper plan so you don’tcontributetotheever-increasinghomeless population in the capital city or any other parts of the world within a short time. My Split City We landed in Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital.

The calm atmosphere and uniformity in the adobe architectural buildings almost everywhere as we shuttle from the city’s small airport to the residential area will make one wonder if there is a local law that prohibits other styles of buildings. Santa Fe is 400+ years old and also a home to an extensive array of museums and immersive art experiences with over 220 galleries, and close to 100 are located on Canyon Road. If you are over excited to see a lot of native Americans like myself, you may be disappointed as tourists and settlers have taken over the traditional city. There are places to keep you busy day and night during your stay in New Mexico as most hotels have free well-detailed printed maps and friendly staff that are always ready to direct you to your next stop. Hotel Santa Fe, the only native American owned hotel, is a nice way to start the exploration. For the Art lovers, Artist Market, Canyon road, historical worship structures, Nampe Lake, Bandelier National Park; and the list is endless. Back Home If the Nigerian system can take conscious eﬀort in preserving and cleaning the paths to our numerous historical monuments and tourist destinations, just imagine the numerous beneﬁts.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tosin Clegg

07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

Moore DH

I’m Working to Expand my Brand Moore DH is a rising afrobeats artiste whose dedication to his music is evolving into a viable career. With a string of successful releases, including collaboration with Blaqbonez,, and his hit single “Too Soft”, Moore DH has been making waves in the Afrobeats scene and building a loyal fan base around the world. He talks to Tosin Clegg about starting his career in Lagos, his genre of music, his dreams and a lot more Growing up was nice

with gelling in the industry. Trying to meet RWKHUV WKDW DUH LQÁXHQWLDO LQ WKH PXVLF JDPH in Nigeria. It’s hard as I’m sometimes not on the same vibe especially musically but yeah those are some challenges.

grew up in Surulere, Lagos. In the streets of Surulere just trying to hustle and become the man that I am and want to be really. I grew up in a family of four. It was me, my mum, brother and sister. Sadly, I lost my dad when I was three months old so I grew up with just my mum. Sad, I know but It was nice, the vibes around Lagos and how active Surulere was. Overall, my childhood was great. I was always in between the streets and elites so I could always be mixed in both but I wasn’t really a ‘street dude’. As a child, I was super curious $OZD\V HDJHU WR OHDUQ QHZ VWXͿ DQG EHFRPH better. My burning ambition was really to speak to computers and to make music. That’s how I started making music being on computers all day and dabbling in music-making software. Then it hit me, damn I can do this. So those were the things I always wanted to do; music and tech. I didn’t know how I would professionally do music (or tech) but I knew I wanted to sing and make people dance to my music. Moore DH That’s always been my vibe. my music of course. It’s all my sound, I don’t do a lot of trying to follow the principles and Life is meant to be enjoyed It’s meant to be productive and it’s all about status quo. I was really scared that Too Soft producing and enjoying what you’ve produced. would be rejected as I dropped a song just I think those are the basic principles of life. before that didn’t do too well but Too Soft Everything goes back to that, producing and GLG JUHDW 6R LW PDGH PH IHHO FRQÀGHQW DV DQ artiste. I think one of my favourite moments consuming. was when I walked into a restaurant in Lagos and BOJ, I wonder if you guys know BOJ on My journey into music I was around 9/10 years old and in primary the microphone he was like ‘Yo! no be you school at the time. My brother was in secondary be that blown guy for Snapchat!’ school and he started a music boy band called Challenges Domack. He inspired me to start writing my My earlier challenges were trying to put lyrics, I’d be writing in the corner and I’d go show him and he’d be like ‘you need more together a solid team that understands the punchlines or this doesn’t make sense’. Crazy vision and are ready to execute it. Also building LQÁXHQFH EXW WKDW·V ZK\ , VWDUWHG GRLQJ PXVLF FRQÀGHQFH DV DQ DUWLVWH .QRZLQJ WKDW P\ The Major spotlight I would say was on my music is hard and that people are ready to VRQJ 7RR 6RIW ,W EXLOW P\ FRQÀGHQFH DQG PDGH accept it. Even if they aren’t ready, I can make me realize not just my friends can listen to them ready. Those are some challenges along

I’ve learnt a lot From where I started and now, I’d say I’ve learnt a lot when it comes to marketing music, producing music, songwriting, brand presence and so on. I’ve learnt that in music you just always have to understand your vision and follow through with it. People will try to drag that vision, change that vision or interpret it LQ GLͿHUHQW ZD\V <RX MXVW KDYH WR EH VXUH and make it clear as the artiste. My genre of music is called AstroFusion It’s a fusion of a bunch of sounds, the sounds that inspire me mostly being Afrobeats, Afroswing, AfroFusion, Rap, HipHop and Astro. I know you guys haven’t heard of Astro before, it’s my sound. It’s that kind of Travis Scott/Don Toliver feel; music that makes you feel like you’re in space. Yeah, I ORYH WKDW 7KH ÀUVW WLPH , KHDUG VRPHWKLQJ like that was from Tory Lanez and yeah I ran with that. Best and worst moments so far I’d say my best moment was around the time when Too Soft had dropped and it was doing numbers. My mum was calling me, everyone was calling and saying ‘your son is everywhere!’ I went to a store to buy something and there was a long line at the counter and to pay I would’ve had to queue. But this very very nice cashier called me to the front and she was like ‘come, come I see you on TV, come and pay!’ and I thought this is what these artistes are enjoying, crazy! For the worst moment, I’d say it would be my listening party for WAP which was a big disaster. There was an overall lack of organization because I had issues with management, just so many issues overall on that day I had to rebrand and get a whole new team after that. Just the whole run for WAP didn’t slap

as much as Too Soft. Inspirations My life - The things that I do, things I see, and hear, people I’m around, women of course, alcohol, etc. It is just my life. I just talk about things that I’m going through and it helps. As for my creative process, I kinda have to just get an idea sometimes when I wake up in the morning, I wake up early. I just get an idea for a song or something might happen and I’m like oh this would be great for a song and I write it down. Even being out in the club and hearing songs I could sample. I’m inspired as long as I live my life. I’m working on an EP I’m busy working on new songs. This year is going to be amazing with back-to-back bangers from me and then there’s a massive tech project behind the EP. We’re building a universe, but I can’t talk too much about it. It’s going to come out later this year. For 2023, I’m just trying to expand my brand. Get my music to more ears, make great music, better than I ever have, and just keep improving! Cause I’m that guy, like I said I’m curious I just want to keep learning and improving. Just keep doing what I’m doing and have bigger skills because I know what I’m doing is great. I just need to have more eyes to look at it, and more people to see it. Those are my plans for 2023. Qualities of good music You need to have a good hook that can get people singing and feeling what you’re saying, making them want to hear it again. Because the hook is usually played again. Then you need to also have a captivating verse. You need to be able to keep people interested in the verses. Good melodies, and good lyrics. I think that’s what a good song I’d want to listen to over and over again would have. You also need a great beat, because a great beat can make a mid-song a hit. I’m a melody guy though, I’m a sucker for crazy melodies so I like artistes like Victony and Rema.

Burnaboy, Kizz Daniel, Tems Dominate Tingo Soundcity MVP Awards Tosin Clegg

n Saturday, February 11, Soundcity held the 5th edition of its continental music award festival, the Soundcity MVP Awards Festival powered by Tingo Mobile with sponsorship from MunchIT, Pepsi and Desperados. The event held at the Eko Convention Centre, in Lagos, Nigeria was anchored by South African actress, Pearl Thusi, and was opened with a superlative performance by Mohbad which set the tone for the night. Performers who captured the energy of African music in the course of the night include; Phina, Gyakie, Magixx, Pheelz, Spyro, Ruger, TI Blaze, Zuchu, Gyakie, Seyi Vibez, Ladipoe, %ODFNERQH] /DGLSRH 9HFWRU .DOLJUDSK -RQHV Black Sherrif and a host of others. According to the founder of Soundcity, Tajudeen Adepetu, the MVP Awards celebrates DQG VKRZFDVHV WKH ÀQHVW RI $IULFDQ PXVLF as well as artistes. The initiative, he said, recognises the hard work, creativity and craft of African Musicians provides its global audience access to premium entertainment and

Tems

Kizz Daniel

promotes the African entertainment industry. In celebrating the uniqueness of the African music culture, a black carpet reception preceded the award ceremony. Hosted by Eso Dike

Burna boy

and Pearl Hart, while Latasha Ngwube and Enioluwa Adeoluwa hosted the fashion police. The reception featured interviews with the glamorous guests at the award ceremony.

Also, the sponsors of the show treated guests to a sampling of their products at the black carpet reception. The founder of Tingo Moblie, Dozy Mmobousi, said; “At Tingo, we are at the forefront of providing solutions for African businesses. Our platform leverages the energy of the African youths to drive innovation and there is no better ally than supporting African artists and the music industry hence our partnership with the Soundcity MVP award”. Those who presented awards included 'DQLHO (WLP (΀RQJ 50' 0U 0DFDURQL casts of Shanty made up of the trio of Chidi Mokeme, Ini Edo and Mercy Eke and a host of others. The award ceremony had 15 categories, out of which Nigerian singers won 12. It also featured special recognition for innovators in GLͿHUHQW ÀHOGV LQFOXGLQJ EXVLQHVV ÀQWHFK fashion and more. While Senegalese singer Akon received the Legend Award, highlight of the night was the special tribute to the recently departed entertainers including South African rapper, $.$ ZKR PHW DQ XQWLPHO\ GHDWK RQ WKH morning of the award ceremony.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

POLITY

2023: What Atiku Will do to Change Nigeria’s Fortunes Danladi Usman

he assertion that man is a political animal and will do everything to win even if it means bribing their way to the very top is not far-fetched from the harsh and unpleasant realities faced by many Nigerians right from Tafawa Balewa’s 1960–1966 era till date; many also would argue tentatively that the country’s prevailing tribulations is nothing compared to the past, due to the incompetence, greed, deceit, disingenuousness, and high-handedness of officials of the present administration that have so far been disadvantageous on the overall welfare of Nigerians. That is why the ultimate objective of this election campaign would be to elect a candidate who is free of corruption, a candidate of the people, one willing to address the nation’s issues at the expense of upsetting the existing quo, and one who would not purchase his way to the presidency. Today, because of money and power, modern politics has now become dirty, dubious and manipulative; politics when dubiously approached will forever remain a threat to freedom and democracy; that is why till today, many Nations are still suffering from the hands of dirty politicians who camouflage as leaders to their subjects; and as a result, the economy on its part remains enveloped with anomalies that on its part contributes to high crime rate and social unrest. As a result, past experiences (political or civil) of the presidential candidates should be put into consideration before deciding who rules next. In respect to that, one of the candidates contesting under the platform of PDP, Atiku Abubakar, who served as the Nation’s Vice President for a while, has a lot and possibly more to contribute to the country. His successful and resourceful administration as vice-president under President Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007, saw positive reformation in most sectors; together, they paid off most debts owed by the country and revamped Nigeria’s economy. Atiku with the campaign theme #RecoverNigeria has recently been pulling massive support from Nigerians with held rallies in various states such as Abia, Umuahia, Benue, Yola, Sokota, Bauchi, Yobe, Plateau and Kano respectively. He is a man of the people and having been at this stage before, Atiku ran unsuccessfully for President of Nigeria in 1993, 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019

Atiku respectively; time will sure tell if it will be sixth time lucky for Wazirin Adamawa. Atiku’s vision for Nigeria is all-encompassing, straightforward, unambiguous and has a distinct roadmap for how he wants to carry out his chosen course of action. His 5-point development agenda that seeks to liberate Nigeria out of this current economic wobble talked about bringing reforms to reposition the private sector, Atiku said his administration

will provide efficient infrastructure to reduce production cost, review inventive structure, provide selective and time-bound protection to priority enterprises and liberalize and de-regulate economy by breaking government monopoly in many sectors. On investing to increase stock and improve further our quality of infrastructure, thereby achieving Institutional reforms, Atiku stated that government will establish Infrastructure Development Unit (IDU) in the presidency, with a coordinating function and a specific mandate of working with her MDAs to fast track and drive the process of infrastructural development; Strengthen the capacity of the ICRC to promote public private partnerships (PPP) in the construction and management of infrastructures in the country; Privatize all government owned refineries and issue new licenses for greenfield investment in crude oil refining and open up the power sector from generation to transmission for private investments. A layman would perceive straightaway what Atiku is trying to accomplish. He is gallantly backing private investments in institutions and government owned refineries. This he believes will bring about reforms that will in turn increase stock and infrastructure. “I envision a new Nigeria without crude oil in which agriculture, manufacturing and MSMEs shall become growth drivers. A Nigeria with a knowledge-based economy with wide application of ICT in health, education, commerce, agriculture and industry. “A dynamic oil and gas sector that is fully integrated into the economy through linkages with agriculture, manufacturing and MSMEs”, Atiku said. We have been in this situation before and will continue to be in it for the time being. Moreso, we must this time carefully analyze the presidential aspirants who are put before us and cast our votes for the candidate who is most qualified without any fear or intimidation. Every Nigerian, including the media, has a part to play in this; the media must assist the electorates make smarter decisions by providing the Presidential contenders with equitable coverage on election day. A working Nigeria will benefit everyone so let’s come together and ensure that after the election, Abubakar Atiku becomes President Muhammadu Buhari successor. Usman sent this piece from Kano

Another Honour for Wole Olanipekun Legal luminary and Chairman Body of Benchers, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, was last week appointed as a visiting professor of Legal Practice to Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FOUYE). Raheem Akingbolu reports The essence of the Holy Bible’s teaching in Ephesians 6:8, “The knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free,” best describes the recent honour bestowed on a former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Oluwole Olanipekun by the Federal University, Oye Ekiti. For Olanipekun, who, three weeks before the event led stakeholders in the legal profession to the inauguration of the ultra-modern court room, he donated to the Ekiti State High Court, Ikere Judicial Division, the Oye Ekiti’s appointment was a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and to education in Nigeria. Beyond Law, his contribution to education traverses many institutions, including University of Ibadan, University of Ilorin, University of Lagos, Ajayi Crowder University and others. In 1996, the legal icon set up the Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme for awarding scholarships to brilliant but indigent students and since then, the scheme has produced many talented beneficiaries, some of whom are now doctors, lawyers, engineers, pharmacists, accountants and educationists. Of course, all these have consistently attracted recognitions from various institutions. For instance, after Olanipekun’s meritorious service to the University of Ibadan, where he once served as Chairman, Governing Council, he was conferred with an honourary Doctor of Law (LL.D) by the University. At least, it’s on record that this legal titan single-handedly built and donated to the Faculty of Law of the University of Ibadan a 420-seater fully-equipped and furnished Auditorium, which was inaugurated in 2012. Two years ago, at the 13th convocation of the Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, the management conferred its honourary Doctorate Degree of Letters on Chief Olanipekun. At FUOYE in Ekiti State where he was recently conferred with honorary doctorate in Constitutional Law, alongside two other eminent Nigerians who were conferred with honorary doctorates of the institution in other fields of endeavour, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Abayomi Fasina said the decision to integrate renowned lawyer was to create a unique room of opportunity for the students of the institution to benefit from his wealth of experience.

Professor Fasina disclosed that Olanipekun had become a role model not only in the legal profession but in the promotion of quality education as well as philosophy. He explained that Olanipekun has contributed in no small measure to humanity and national development. Considering the disposition of the enthralled audience while the VC reeled out Olanipekun’s achievements, everyone, including the fussiest agreed it was an honour well-deserved. While appreciating the gesture of the university management towards him, Olanipekun announced a N10 million donation to the first 20 best graduating students in the Law Faculty. In his reaction to the role of role model which the vice chancellor said he would want the eminent Lawyer plays, Olanipekun said he would commence immediate interactions with the Law students of FOUYE as soon as possible. He said, “I am not rich and at the same time, I am not poor. But I count myself as a child of grace. I am always happy putting smiles on the face of underprivileged and it gives me great pleasure any day to give back to the society. So, our people should not discourage some of us who are willing to give back to the society with unnecessary criticisms.” Olanipekun admonished. He also admonished the academia to deploy their God’s giving knowledge in profitable ventures rather than indulging in frivolities. The legal giant said all his donations to individuals, church as well as community were not intended for any personal rewards. Referring to the recent donation of High Court Complex to Ekiti State Judiciary, Olanipekun argued that the gesture was in line with the best global practices. He specifically mentioned that the edifices housing the International Court of Justice, Hague and the Israeli Supreme Court were both donated by private individuals. Born on November18, 1951 at Ikere-Ekiti, Olanipekun attended Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti, Ilesha Grammar School, Ilesha, University of Lagos, the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar in July, 1976. He was recognised as a leader in achievement in Ondo State in 1994, honoured with Merit Award Certificate as an illustrious son of Ikere in 1996 and conferred with Aare

Olanipekun Bamofin of Owo in 1995, among others. Olanipekun has positively impacted on many people in different and diverse areas of life, including education, religion, industry and employment. Exactly three years ago, the legal titan built an ultramodern auditorium within the premises of Saint Peter Anglican Church, Ikere Ekiti and donated it to Anglican Communion. In February 2009, he built, equipped and donated a modern IT building to Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti. Also, in March 2012, God provided for him the means to donate a modern Vicarage to St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Ikere. In July 2011, he planted an Endowment Fund for junior lawyers, particularly in the Lagos and Ilorin branches of the NBA. He is a patron to the Law Students’ Society in UNILAG, UNILORIN, U.I, UNAD, OAU, Ife and Igbinedion University. He has presented over 200 papers on diverse topics within and outside Nigeria.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

POLITY

Basiru: I will Be Reelected as Osun Central’s Senator Ajibola Surajudeen Basiru is the Chairman Senate committee on Media and Publicity. He represents Osun Central at the National Assembly. In this chat with Hammed Shittu, senator Basiru talks about his achievements and expressed optimism that he would get a second term based on his performance As we move closer to polls, what are your chances for a second term in view of the political development in Osun State that has seen the PDP winning the governorship? I have never doubted that I will win the forthcoming Osun Central Senatorial election regardless of who the governor is. The reasons are not far-fetched. I’m from the streets and I understand the politics of my people quite well. I understand them to the extent of knowing their critical needs and putting smiles on their faces as I also listen to their concerns and ask for their opinion on how to help our district. I’m also conscious of the fact that they trust me and they usually support me to the extent that they would reward me with their votes in the coming elections. So, my mind is not ruffled at all because my conscience is clear that I have done right by my constituents. You must be very happy that APC’s Adegboyega Oyetola was declared winner of the July16 governorship election by the election tribunal It’s just a case of chicken coming home to roost. As a stakeholder, I will urge all the political actors in Osun State to maintain peace and allow the rule of law to prevail. No one is above the law. Whatever opinion or stand anyone has on this matter should be surrendered before the judiciary. So, I appeal that everyone should maintain calm and be law abiding. I believe that the APC and the former Governor Oyetola will win all other levels of judicial process at the end of the day. There is no doubt that the state is for APC and the people have been with the party for over a long time. The victory at the tribunal is a sign that the APC will be victorious both at the February 25 and March 11 elections across Nigeria. The victory was also a stimulus for the party supporters and I know quite sure that the people of the state will vote for all APC candidates at the general election. What is your take on the recent presidential election rally of the APC in Osun state? Let me tell you that the rally was unprecedented in the history of the state. The large crowd of APC supporters and well-wishers was a reassurance that the party is for the state and the state is for the APC. The APC supporters came out

enmasse to welcome Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shetima to the state and showed them their loyalty and support ahead of the forthcoming general election. The exodus has also showed that the party is on ground in Osun State. Recently, you visited all the local government areas that make up your senatorial district. what was the feedback like? Well, the people of the senatorial district are very good people and they have been supportive since my election into the National Assembly. The tours have witnessed optimum result as it has showed that representation is about people. The people of have showed their support and commitment to my second term aspiration into the national assembly in view of my past positive quality representation at the Upper chambers. There is no area, be it education, health, job opportunities, empowerment among others that I have not touched since my resumption in the Senate. My people acknowledged these and pledged to vote for my second term in order to continue with the good work. The feedback from the tour was very positive and the people have seen the difference in terms of quality representation. They have taken the slogan “Forward 2023” as a goal that must be achieved and they would demonstrate this during the forthcoming elections. What have been your achievements so far in the Senate? What have been the gains for the people of Osun Central? Just as I promised while campaigning, I believe that so far, I have been able to give quality and active representation to Osun Central, notwithstanding being a first timer. I will say without being immodest that the achievements recorded so far have been monumental. The first being my appointment as Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora, Non-Governmental Organisations and Civil Societies. This is not an ordinary calling, because being a new entrant into the Senate and being made the Chairman of a very strategic Committee speaks volume of the attributes ascribed to me and the role expected of me as a Senator. In short, my uncommon passion for the growth of my constituency has also spurred me to lay a petition titled, ‘Petition on the abandonment of the Osogbo Steel

Basiru Rolling Company and the Nigeria Machine Tools Limited’ and an appeal for a drastic and immediate action to be taken on their rehabilitation before the Senate for consideration on behalf of Egbe Osogbo Oroki Parapo and the people of Osun Central senatorial district. While laying the petition before the Senate, I gave a picturesque highlight of the petition which prays for an urgent consideration and intervention by the Senate for the reversal of the sordid fate that has befallen the Osogbo Steel Rolling Company and Nigeria Machine Tools Ltd, both located in Osogbo and the degeneration of the two hitherto foremost factories which are now in total states of neglect, disrepair and their inevitable obsolescence if the neglect continues in the hands of the new owners of the factories who came into their possession after the privatisation exercise carried out by the federal government through the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) several years ago. The petition was later referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions by the President of the Senate Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Ejike Eze: Enugu North Yearning for New Leadership Ambassador Ejike Eze is the Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Enugu North. A diplomat specialising in intelligence and security protocol, Eze served in Nigerian embassies in Germany, Portugal, Ghana and Cuba. He speaks to Kingsley Nwezeh about his campaign and chances of clinching the senatorial slot How is your campaign to represent Enugu North in the Senate going? So far so good. As a party, we started a joint campaign, the candidates, the Senatorial candidates, the House of Reps candidates, state assembly candidates and all other candidates. We went around all the wards in the state and that was the first time such campaign was ever done. After the tour of wards, we now relaxed and individuals started their own campaigns. For me, I have gone round the local governments and then talked to my people and discussed with the people in the six local government areas of Enugu North. Beyond all these, I have also been talking to interest groups in Nsukka. The lawyers, the academics, the professionals and so many other areas, the artisans, the keke, the okada riders, Keke Napep associations and some distinct people with cultural festivals like the one in Igbo Etiti which I attended. It’s called Ochima. You know there is something they said about Ochima, being the eldest community in Nsukka. When they celebrated their odo festival, I was there and got the Ofo (title) from Onyishi Ochima (the eldest man in Ochima). These are the things I have done. Again the media, I have been visible in the media. All these have exposed my candidature to the electorate in Enugu State. What has the response from the people been like? The response has been overwhelming. You know, in our part of the country, our party, APC, is not a very popular brand, but now, due to the input of some of us, people are now beginning to talk about the individual, not the party which should be the actual thing. It’s not really the party per se and I also know that almost all the political parties have their own shortcomings, the APC, the PDP, which have been the two major political parties and the emergence of Labour Party and New Nigeria National Party. People, who have been in these two parties are the bulk of these new parties that are emerging right now. Everything put together, people are no longer talking about party per se. My candidature, I can tell you, has exposed me to the people. Before now, I was the only one that had the

Eze determination and courage to challenge the PDP’s ownership mentality of power in Enugu State because for 23 years, they have been there unchallenged. Now, they are beginning to feel there are people who are interested in what they have been doing which they have not done rightly. This is the situation for now. What are the dominant issues they want you to address? Issues of bad governance. This is the key issue they are looking at. For instance, I had a radio interview programme sometime ago and a woman called in to say she retired from government work three years ago and she has not gotten

her gratuity or pension. When I asked why do we sell fuel in Enugu, N240 and Nsukka N340, they said because the road from 9th Mile to Nsukka is so terrible. That no trailer wants to pass through that road and because of this, they spend more money on transportation and that has made the price of fuel in Nsukka higher than most parts of Enugu State. The issue of infrastructure is there and now the government, because another election has come, they think they can always deceive the people. Now if you go to all the roads, they are breaking all the roads, claiming to be building and constructing new roads. In all parts of Nsukka now, they have promised so many people roads. They are building roads for every tom, dick and harry and I asked them will they finish this network of roads they are constructing before February 25 election? You see these things are deceit. I ask again if they had money to be building these roads, what have they been doing in the past seven years? And now that the election is at hand, they are doing panicky projects here and there. The people are talking about lack of infrastructure, lack of innovative ideas. Look at the dirt in Nsukka. Nsukka is a university community and a university community is an international community. As you enter Nsukka, the first thing you encounter is dirt. Just leave Opi Junction, drive some distance, you will see heaps of rubbish. A government that cannot even clean the environment, clean his house and a lot of things. Nsukka people are really dismayed about the performance of the governor. Look at Ogige market and what it looks like in comparison to what Gov Dave Umahi did in Abakaliki in Ebonyi State. Ogige Market should be turned into a modern shopping mall so that when you enter Nsukka, you will see modenity. For eight years, we have had our son in government and nothing has changed in Nsukka. If you talk about human capital development, I wrote a memo telling the governor that Enugu Senatorial District has never produced a federal permanent secretary and most of them that come to Abuja as permanent secretaries come from transfer of service but he did nothing of the sort.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

POLITY

Peter Obi: God of Nigeria at Work Again Jones Ike The Presidential Election billed for 25th February 2023, has been described by many as a make or mar one for Nigeria. The reason for such assertion is simple to decipher. Nigeria is in dire straits. As the nation crawls closer to the election date, all the negative indices that seem to characterise Nigeria’s development effort are on ascent with far greater velocity. The situation has imposed an unimaginable level of suffering on a hapless citizenry. As the election date draws closer, it would only suffice to say that if Nigerians get it right, if they vote correctly, a new initiative aimed at scorching the problem could be initiated. On the other hand, if they vote wrongly, the situation could get worse. Infact, a lot of pundits predict that there could be no Nigeria to manage, if the people with the same mindset that created the problem are recycled back to run the show after May 29th 2023 when the present incumbent in office is expected to hand over to a successor. It has however been said in several quarters that ‘God is a Nigerian’. This later day saying is attributed to the providential ability of Nigeria to pull back from the brinks inexplicably and quite contrary to expectations of doom. The first of such expected damnation when Nigeria drifted towards an implosion as one nation was during the crisis period of 1966-1970, the second was the June 12,1993 crises that spanned five years to resolve while the third was the unexpected death of President Yar’Adua in 2010 when the National Assembly had to invent the “Doctrine of Necessity” to steady the Nation again. The fourth might yet be this February 2023 presidential election when the Nation seems to be collapsing in several critical fronts and in dire need of an urgent resolution. Following from above, it could be asserted that perhaps the God of Nigeria might be at work once again. It is the same providence that has thrown up the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi as the leading one in this crucial make or mar presidential contest. No less a person than Mr. Charles Oputa, aka ‘Charly Boy’ has made the point that without Obi’s candidature, the Nation would have been compelled to make the choice between a “sniper or Ota Piapia”, both of which are different variants of rat poison. There is no doubt in the minds of several perceptive people that the profile of the candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu and that of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar, especially as it relates to the resolution of Nigeria’s current and lingering challenges, are quite so inadequate as to justify Mr. Charly Boy’s theoretical

postulation. Firstly, Tinubu is presently physically constrained by age and health challenges to even muster the presence of mind to tackle the current challenges of our time. Additionally, Asiwaju parades other baggage like questionable educational resume and past business dealings that have question marks attached to them. Engineer Musa Rabiu Kwankwanso is one of the good candidates that is in the race. He parades very high academic qualifications in addition to being rated as a politician with high level of integrity. However, his campaign has been largely confined to the North West where he is expected to have a good showing. Additionally, his politics has been characterised by a high level of insularity all of which limit his acceptability especially in the south and Christian areas of the North. Except for Obi of the Labour Party, the other contestants in the presidential race could be categorised broadly into what one comic writer referred to as “I Also Ran Group of Contestants”. Quite expectedly Obi has brought a freshness that the national politics urgently needed. He has articulated in very clear terms the steps he will take to resolve some of Nigeria’s intractable problems and take the country back from consumption to production. It is easy to believe him because he has a track record of integrity, consistency and capacity in both his private and public sector outings. Again, age and health favours him. This is in addition to parading academic and personal profile records that towers above that of any other contestant in the race. It is good also to mention that even though Obi has stated severally and emphatically that he is not running the presidential race on the basis of his ethnicity or religion but rather on his capacity, credibility and consistency to deliver on the job, yet it will be nice to mention the fact that his win will impact the national question positively. Obi’s south east zone is one of the regions of the country that is bleeding from insecurity. Such insecurity has been inspired by separatist groups who have accused the federal government of marginalising the region in both representation and allocation of federal resources. Again, the South-east is the only such one that has not produced a president since the advent of the present democracy. It is expected that Obi’s presidency will help to douse the separatist agitations and curtail the present insecurity that it has bred in the region. Above all, Obi has an impressionable personality that is unassailable. He combines the brilliance and idealism of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe with the practicality and attention to details of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Obi combines the pragmatism of Alhaji Ahmadu

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Tractor on The Go (TGO), Mr. Anthony Agbonlahor; Director, Agric Services, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Abiola Ayoade; Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya; Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Olatokunbo Emokpae and IT Director, (TGO), Austin Okoye, during Official flag off of Eko Agro Mechanisation Scheme in Araga Epe in Lagos…. yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUNc

L-R: Dean and Director, The FATE School, Mr. Bambo Adebowale; Assistant General Manager, Corporate Aﬀairs, Branding and Marketing, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Ltd., Joke Adu; Executive Director, FATE Foundation, Adenike Adeyemi; and Chief Executive Oﬃcer, Millenium Apartment and the Aspiring Entrepreneurs Program (AEP) Course Director, Max Menkiti, at the 2023 Induction ceremony of Aspiring Entrepreneurs Program (AEP) sponsored by the Bank in Lagos.... recently. ETOP UKUTT

Obi Bello, Dr. Michael Okpara with the simplicity and humility of sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and Dr. Akanu Ibiam. It is also important to note that in spite of his famed “stinginess” the Labour Party Presidential hopeful possess the compassion of Mallam Aminu Kano. Infact it will suffice to say as Shakespeare remarked in one his plays, all the elements seem to combine well in his physical frame. Taking the above reasons into consideration, one could assert with confidence that Obi’s win in the coming presidential election is a must one for Nigerians if the nation will be pulled back from its present sojourn into a bleak alley that it has dangerously and recklessly been railroaded into. It is actually a historical imperative if Nigeria is to attain its full potential as the most viable black nation on earth.

Jones Ike, former Chairman, Arochukwu LGA and member, Dr. Alex Otti Campaign Council wrote from Abuja

L-R: Chief Executive Oﬃcer, Focal PointTravel and Tours, Mr. AbdulJaleel Olori-Aje; Vice Chairman, Noor Takaful Insurance Limited, Aminu Tukur; Managing Director, Citiserve Limited, Dr. Jubril Salaudeen; Managing Director, Noor Takaful Insurance Limited, Mr. Rilwan Sunmonu and Chief Executive Oﬃcer, Qibla Travels and Tour, Abdulfattah AbdulMajeed during the unveiling of Takaful Pilgrimage Plan organised by Noor Takaful Insurance Limited in partnership with Hajj/Umrah Operators held in Lagos...recently.

L-R: Head of Corporate Development, Trucks Transit Parks Ltd, Richard Emenim; Customer Service Manager,Temiwumi Aganmayo; Business Development Manager, Taiwo Adedeji; Assistant Customer Service Manager, Funke Sanni; and Head of Operations, Irabor Akonoman at a press brieﬁng to mark the Company’s 2nd anniversary in Lagos…. recently

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

Burden of A President’s Legacies

n barely 108 days from now, President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration would have run its full course of two terms of eight years. Given the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended, Buhari would be heading home on May 29 this year signalling the end of his tenure. To underscore the fact that he is not nursing a tenure elongation and his preparedness to conduct a free and fair election for a seamless transition, Buhari has already inaugurated a transition committee headed by the Secretary to the Federal Government (SGF) Boss Mustapher to prepare for May 29. hand over But as the administration begins its winding down process, the question on the lips of concerned Nigerians is: what are the President’s legacies? People would want to know how much of Buhari’s campaign promises did he fulfil; what sort of leader was he? Empathetic or ruthless? Was he a visionary leader whose policies transformed the country? Was he a good communicator, did he have a listening ear? Was he a unifier or divisive? How far did his policies impact on the mass of Nigerians wallowing in poverty? Apart from the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo whose ambition to lead the country could not material after two attempts in 1979 and 1983, Buhari stands out as one candidate whose three earlier attempts in 2003, 2007 and 2011 all ended in failure. However, bowing to pressure after resigning to fate, he again joined the race in 2015 when his CPC entered an alliance with Senator Bola Tinubu’s ACN to form the All Progressives Congress (APC). In 2015, goaded by the popular propaganda that then President Goodluck Jonathan and his administration were roundly corrupt, the opposing APC then pushed for a PDP ouster on the grounds that Buhari would clean the augean stables. At that time, Buhari’s handlers packaged him as a democrat, a statesman with a listening ear and above all a messiah who had the magic wand to wave the country’s problems away. His major selling points were that he was not corrupt and highly disciplined combined with his military background, Buhari was the favourite to rid Nigeria of corruption as well as stopping and ending the terror reign of Boko Haram who abhor western education. So there were great expectations on Buhari from the people. To some who saw Buhari in Awolowo’s mould, Awolowo’s lost opportunity would be reclaimed by a Buhari administration. He was expected to literarily move mountains by uprooting age old bureaucracy that has stymied the country’s growth. He was expected to breathe fresh hope and optimism to a people who had long suffered years of neglect from the crooked ways of politicians who cared only after their votes in

THEFRONTLINES JOSEPH USHIGIALE jushigiale@yahoo.co.uk, joseph.ushigiale@thisdaylive.com 08023422660 (sms only)

every election cycle. Now what are Buhari’s legacies as he prepares to exit government? Without a doubt, Buhari perhaps had good intentions and hoped to transform the country to the best of his ability. However, two major factors set the pace for the result recorded after eight years on the saddle. The first was age and ailment. In 2015, Buhari was reportedly 73 years and was beginning to exhibit signs of dementia and forgetfulness. He was slow to action and showed signs of ailment which would later impact heavily on his ability to effectively carry out his job as President. In addition, events that unfolded immediately after Buhari was declared winner suggested that he never believed he would win and so was largely unprepared and had no plan to hit the ground running. Shortly after taking office, the expectations at the time were that Buhari would immediately walk the talk. The first sign of trouble was his inability to immediately inaugurate a cabinet. It took him about six months to choose and inaugurate his ministers. By this time, governance was already suffering, critical policy decisions expected to be taken at the federal executive council meetings were delayed with attendant consequences on the economy. It was not surprising that not long after, the country slid into recession, the first of its kind in 25 years. So how do you rate Buhari’s legacy? It’ll depend on who you are talking with because there would certainly be mixed reactions. But like a Lizard nodding its head in self praise after jumping from the highest elevation of a baobab tree without applause from bystanders, Buhari is his own greatest fan and praise singer. He believes he’s the best thing that has happened to Nigeria and perhaps the father of modern day Nigeria. His aides are fond of mouthing that Nigerians would weep when Buhari leaves the stage. Buhari believes he has accomplished so much but wondered why his aides have refused to amplify his accomplishments. Even with the shaky start, the Buhari administration recorded some accomplishments that are worthy of commendation. His social investment schemes like N-Power continued from the Jonathan administration, school feeding, conditional cash transfer and Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme have all touched the lives of millions of Nigeria mostly in the north than the south. In agriculture, more fertilizer blending plants and rice mills have been established buoyed by the central bank’s anchor borrowers’ scheme. The intervention has led to incremental growth in rice and some other food production. The administration has invested in infrastructure including the building of the Kano to Maradi railway line; Lagos to Abeokuta and also the reactivation of the Abuja Itakpe rail line. It has also completed the second Niger bridge in Anambra state as well as commenced the Abuja Kaduna, Kano gas pipeline which would eventually be the gateway to gas export to Europe. Buhari has

succeeded in passing into law the lingering Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) which has provided a framework for the unbundling of loss reporting government owned company the NNPC now NNPLC. To begin with, the President needs to know that good deeds are not hidden, they need no one including presidential apparatchiks to sell them, they virtually sell themselves. How is that possible? It is possible through the building of very strong institutions that would outlive the builder. As the President prepares to leave the stage, it would soon dawn on him that he has failed woefully by building institutions that would form the bedrock of his legacies. If the President expects to be praise for the cosmetic work he has done, it can only be interpreted that the President is living an entirely different reality from what millions Nigerians are currently living. As you read this piece, Nigerians have suffered several weeks of debilitating fuel scarcity even as an oil producing country. When Buhari came in on the throes of fuel scarcity, he promised to build additional refineries and turnaround the four existing ones to end fuel scarcity. It is a huge shame that the President did not only fail to turn the sod for any new refinery, the four old refineries have remained in the same comatosed condition he inherited in 2015. So where is the change? How have these impacted on the people and what is the realities across the country? The situation across the country is so bad that people are barely waiting to wish away the President and his bad policies. On the economy, the President did not perform. His promise of making a naira to equal a dollar remains a pipe dream. The most devastating story about the economy is that the naira which in 2015 changed at N160 to $ now changes for N840, it is worse with the pound and Euro and other currencies. Nigeria’s currency has suffered huge devaluation that it is now ranked the least in the basket of currencies in the ECOWAS region. What about the cost of food and basic amenities? With a stagnant national minimum wage of N30,000 per month, most families go to bed without food. A crate of eggs which sold for N800/1100 in 2015 is now N2200, chicken is now N5000 from N2500, a bag of rice from N8000 to N36000 and a litre of petrol from N135 in 2015 N172 official and now with the scarcity, petrol sells for N450 outskirt of Lagos and more per litre while diesel moved from N300 in 2015 to N1000 per litre.Kerosene and aviation fuel are priced out of reach from the common man and airline operators. Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Abiodun’s Scorecard and Mandate’s Renewal Femi Ogbonnikan

t has been a long season of thrilling electioneering jamborees across all the federation states, preparatory to the forthcoming general elections. Back home here in Ogun State, where Governor Dapo Abiodun is blazing the trail in good governance, all is a promise kept, making his re-election bid easy stuff to sell. The performing governor, in keeping with the primary import of his just, inclusive and accountable governance style, has been criss-crossing the nooks and crannies of the state not only to push for continuity agenda but to also present the scorecard of his administration since its inception on May 29, 2019. Though development is forever a work in progress, one can say without any equivocation that he has so far justified the people’s mandate to earn a second term, for within the limit of available resources, he has put the state on a new pedestal of sustainable economic growth, improved security, job creation, accelerated industrial progress through local and foreign direct investments as well as aggressive infrastructural development cutting across all the 20 local council areas of the state. At this point now that there is a lull in electioneering activities due to the hardship occasioned by the twin challenges of the new naira redesign policy and fuel scarcity, it is imperative to do a cursory sectoral analysis of the performance of the administration so as to be able to put things in proper perspective. To begin from where we were before the advent of the present government, at the twilight of the tenure of former governor Ibikunle Amosun, several road projects were awarded and abandoned midway. Despite the paucity of funds accentuated by the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy, nay Nigeria’s revenue inflow, Governor Abiodun took up the challenge in his stride and worked assiduously to complete all abandoned road projects across the state, including the flyovers in Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Igbo, Sagamu, and Sango-Ota, among others, in order not to waste tax payers’ money. For the records, some of the abandoned road projects

inherited by the present government included the SangoIjokoAkute-Alagbole road; Ita-oshin- Isaga- Ilaro- Owode- AdoOdo road; the Iperu-Ilisan-Agoiwoye road; the Atan-LusadaIgbesa-Agbara road; the OwodeEgba-Mowe road, to mention but a few. Those within Abeokuta Township are Idi-aba- Ogtv Road, Pansheke- Onikolobo-MAPOLY Road, and Adatan SajeMokola- Enugada Road all of which were left uncompleted by the administration. Ijebu-Ode, Ilaro, Atan-Lusada-Agbara, Sagamu, and Ota axis are equally inclusive. Today, most of these projects have been completed and delivered, while work is still ongoing on a few others that are yet to be commissioned. This is aside from the new road network dotting the entire landscape of the state. At present, not less than 80 major roads and 120 others have been constructed, reconstructed, or rehabilitated amounting to 661.76km, and 99.125km, while 562.63km are ongoing across the three senatorial districts of the state. It is particularly noteworthy to state that 65 percent of these transformation projects executed by the administration in each zone of the state were based on people’s requests. And to say the least, the multiplier effects of this enabling environment on investment inflow and industrial growth cannot be over-emphasized. For instance, it has been estimated that the International Cargo Airport alone when completed would generate no fewer than 25,000 jobs for the people of the state. In addition to employment creation, the project will also open up the state, deepen the development process, and even provide an alternative to the congested Lagos port facilities. In the same vein, it will also shore up state revenue generation capacity, which is the right step towards financial selfsufficiency. The net effect of it would no doubt boost housing schemes, industrial projects, and other investments that could ordinarily have been located in Lagos which will now be attracted to Ogun State, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on the Southern front, and towards Epe and Ijebu Ode on the Northern axis. More importantly, it would tremendously boost the exportation of agricultural and allied products by commercial farmers as well as the importation of farm inputs into the state, thereby enhancing the capacity for the Internally Generated Revenue

(IGR) for accelerated development. In spite of its commitment to infrastructural development, people’s welfare remains the centerpiece of government policy. This explains why Governor Abiodun has made regular payments of workers’ salaries and gratuities of pensioners a top priority of his government. It is on record that over N70 billion has been released for the payment of the inherited gratuity arrears since he assumed office in 2019, while the administration has equally increased the quarterly payment to defray outstanding gratuities from N500m to N600m. As someone who believes in the dignity of labour, the governor has consistently assured that he would continue to put the welfare of the people, especially the senior citizens at the centre of his developmental agenda. It is also to the credit of the Abiodun administration that Ogun State has emerged as the third largest economy in the country with enhanced capacity for Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), coming only after Lagos, FCT and Rivers. As analysis of the recent statistics by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows, the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory recorded N1.89 trillion in Internally Generated Revenue in 2021. Out of this figure, Lagos had the highest IGR with N753.3 billion, representing 40 percent of the total sum, followed by the FCT with N131.9 billion; Rivers State, N123.3 billion and Ogun State, N100.7 billion. The report is further strengthened by the fact that between the months of January and September last fiscal year, over N70 billion was recorded as IGR with an assurance of a better performance in the years ahead. Among other things, Ogun State has also achieved a milestone in investment drive under the administration of Governor Abiodun. According to the 2021 second quarter report of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), investment in Ogun stands at $500 million, representing 30 percent of the total figure for the country, while Lagos State, with $441.3 million worth of investment, represents 26 percent for the period under review. Further statistics released by the World Bank also placed the State in a prime position in the ease of doing business index, ranking 3rd among the states of the federation in its latest report.

Ogbonnikan wrote from Abeokuta, Ogun State. Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

‘Living Witness’ Wrong

RONG: “Obituary announcement”; right: obituary. An ‘obituary’ is an announcement. DAILY INDEPENDENT of February 2 welcomes us this week with a school-boy howler: “…there is no way any constitution amendment could mediate on (in) the invidious and divisive forces they spawn.” You can also mediate between A and B. “…has given a graphic details on how her husband was killed.” Get it right: a graphic detail or graphic details, depending on context. “Then, I remembered yesterday when these same set of rulers.…” Platform of shame: either this set of rulers or these sets of rulers, as stylistics and intended message entail. “…after all, we are living witnesses (are there dead ones?) to the fact that powerful men of yesteryears (yesteryear)….” Just witnesses to the fact! “So instead of constructing a borehole to bring portable water....” Spelling counts, too: potable water. Always spell-check. “It is an inchoate group, an amalgam of contending forces and power blocks (blocs).…” “…others blamed the government on (for) not having the patience.…” “Others yet believe the dead soldiers deserved the treatment meted (meted out) to them because….” “Despite the siege laid by the US, Britain and Northern Alliance forces against (to) Kunduz which is.…” “They look relaxed even though the Pakistan (Pakistani) government had just announced the closure of.…”

“…former Minister of Information… and former PDP National Secretary engaged themselves (each other) in a media war….” “Tribunals of Inquiry Act: It’s ((Its) compulsive power contravenes citizens’ rights to serve and is estimated at… comprising of….” Please, delete ‘of’ in the interest of lexical orderliness. “No fewer than 36 persons lost their lives in a ghastly (fatal) motor accident on the Zariap Funtua road at the weekend.” Can reporters just leave out this ‘fatality’ verbiage which is encompassed in the loss of lives except the sentence has to be reconstructed. “Jos, the capital of Plateau State (another comma, please) is one of the few cosmopolitan towns that has (have) enjoyed peaceful co-existence recently. This is underscored by the law of proximity (towns that have—not Jos). “On that note, he revealed that the inflight service will speak volume (volumes) of Nigerian people and culture.” “They point accusing fingers at the military.…” For a better society, let us rewrite: They point the finger at the military…. “Infact (In fact), a trip to market squares and sweat-shops, which are….” “Indeed (a comma, please) PDP is at crossroads.” Yes, indeed, PDP is at a/the crossroads. “Those at the helms of affair in these institutions…” Fixed expression: at the helm in these institutions “For 150 years of independence of the Latin Americans, there have been over 100 coups d’etats caused by selfish political class.” Get them right: coups d’etat and a special political class or the special political class, as the case maybe.

“As the existing political parties in Nigeria tear themselves (one another) into shreds….” “Man arrested over wife’s death” The man was arrested for his wife’s death. “Recently, the chairman of Parents/ Teachers Association of Federal Government College….” Education and English without tears: parent-teacher association. “Insecurity in (on) campuses….” “Remember the police are under the control of the Lord of Aso Rock who received no less than thirty million naira, unsolicited, from the Anambra-born moneybag (moneybags) when he contested the presidential election in 1999.” “Taraba police begins ‘stop and search’ operation across the state” Sterility: ‘police’ always in plural form. And this: stop-and-search operation “Jukun, Tiv clash: Igbo women raped, properties looted.” ‘Property,’ in this context, is uncountable. “I’ve seen too many progressives turn cold turkey in the end in spite of their honest efforts at the onset (outset, in this instance) to change the system.” “The successful bidding process, award of GSM licences and eventual launching (launch) of the services of the operators in Nigeria give cause for celebration.” ‘Launching’, in this particular usage, belongs to the archives! “…he had to abandon the bicycle that we borrowed (lent) him for that purpose and made a hasty retreat to….” “Niger threatens to hands-off (hands off) sponsorship of pilgrims” “Over-aged players invade U-19 camp” Get it right: overage players. “A senator who muted (mooted) this idea had this to say....”

Advisories for 2023 Elections

he journey of a thousand miles, however arduous, usually starts with a few tentative steps. The long-standing anticipation of what has promised to be the most pivotal, game-changing of general elections since the creation of this nation is just merely a week away. For close to four years we have huffed and puffed about a unique power transition process which offers a plethora of professional or technocratic politicians without a hint of military background to remind us of our inglorious past. Since the middle of last year when the major presidential candidates emerged, Nigerians have witnessed a series of actions, gaffes, disclosures, allegations, fumblings, and some moments of brilliance and flurry of “incredible” promises and changes. It has been a busy eight months. However, the focus of this article is much less outlandish. It simply asks us to observe certain etiquettes and public behavior that will augur well in frustrating the designs of “fifth columnists” and traders of chaos and anarchy. If we do not want cancellations of polls, either in isolated cases, or generally, we must exercise wisdom, clarity of mind and one-tunnel purpose in seeing to the delivery of a “free, fair and credible” election on 25 February and 11 March, 2023…by the grace of God, and the transparent impartiality and administrative nous of our Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. The most powerful idea that should populate our minds should be a keenly contested race with a breathtaking climax that leaves all comers panting in exhaustion of a great, fervent and untainted suffrage. Even when we are unhappy with the results, we should be satisfied with the process and the conduct of the elections. Therefore, it is important that with less than a week to the end of campaigns, we should revisit the credentials, posturings, promises, positions and manifestos of all current political

contenders within our purview - and not just presidential candidates. Let us also interrogate the supposed accomplishments of sitting governors and legislators, and the counter submissions of fresh candidates… no stone (read politician) should be left unturned. In the process of engaging the already charged political moments, and ‘deities’, it is advisable to diﬀerentiate between arguments and discussions. The notion of argument is inherently negative, especially in Nigeria where we engage in all sorts of diatribes on social media and networks with the primary aim of only waiting for the opposer to land, so that you can upload your counter argument. The essence is not to convince or persuade, but to eviscerate and humiliate the opposer into submission, with all sorts of rhetorical gimmicks - including innuendos, lampoons, blatant abuses, and veiled threats and curses. If you must engage, do not go that route. Let us discuss…a notion that gives itself to mutual respect and healthy conversation. You may not persuade your “opponents” to vote for your preference, but you are not likely to end up as sworn enemies infected by Nigerian politics. In all your arguments, discussions and personal campaigns, whether online or oﬄine, when the legal closure of all campaigns are announced (23 February for national, and 9 March for state elections), it is advisable that you also resist the urge to continue. If you desire a government and leadership that obey and respect the rule of law and hope to foster strong institutions, then you ought to follow by example - just as you expect politicians to lead by example. While on the trail of leading by example, let us also show moderation and common sense in the way we “market” our candidates and preferred parties, and how we “demarket” others. See, your lovely but loudly branded t-shirts, caps and other garments do not sway committed or uncommitted voters - there are many other factors that can

achieve that. Do not therefore endanger your own well being by wearing and strutting across town in politically branded clothings which, admittedly, is your fundamental human right - yet wisdom dictates that even if you believe where you are is a safe zone for your preferred party, there is a possibility of a minority clutch of ultras, irresponsible enough to be outraged by your “effrontery”, deciding they need to “put you in your place”. See, you do not need an army of miscreants to start a mayhem. Be careful not to light a needless dynamite fuse. A corollary of that is mocking supporters of opposing parties while frolicking towards a “mega rally” in a mass of joyous co-travellers - especially on routes that are considered a “no man’s land”. Be circumspect - for your return journey may not be as warm and wholesome for your people could have scattered into different directions, leaving only a few of you marooned in the “lion’s den” - isolated and easily manhandled, if not worse. Similarly, when your party or preferred candidates invite you to rallies located in areas you perceive as opposition enclaves, and where prior to the day of the rallies, the atmosphere is heavy with threats and possible attacks, do your best to not make real their sick wishes - stay away. Campaigns are essentially fun spots and opportunities for picnic outings where supporters celebrate their leaders, and conversely, leaders show off the size of their supportership. Rallies are not persuasion points, neither are there any polling booths there. Stay alive to partake in the actual elections. Your permanent voter’s card (PVC) is your ticket to a great show or a flop that will run for four years, depending on how you use it. We all know it is important…more now than before. If, as you read this article, you have not collected your PVCs, and you are a fresh registrant, we advise that you still maintain peace, purpose and patience. Do not concoct conspiracy theories, though

EBERE WABARA

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“…in their heydays (heyday) they never imagined the time would ever come….” “The day after the panel’s first meeting with the president (a comma, please) one of the commission’s counsels….” ‘Counsel’ is unchanged even n plural applications. “From the foregoing, Japan seems to have learnt it’s (its) lessons from the atomic bomb episode.” “It did happen leaving immense tragedy and loss in (on) its trail.” “And I am not just talking about the siege armed robbers have laid on (to) the home of virtually every Nigerian, high or low, rich or poor….” “That was what I had at the back of my mind when I almost stopped my junior (younger) brother.” “It is not that I see Igbo land as an hostile region.” Modern trend: a hostile region “…the president and other stakeholders in the nation’s well-being rubbed minds (exchanged ideas/views….)—it is impossible to rub minds! “He had ordered that more soldiers be posted to the troubled (trouble) spots….” FEEDBACK THE NATION ON SUNDAY of February 12 refers: “The starting point of new look is to jettison our selfish individualism.” Wouldn’t it have been better if it was just selfishness or individualism?” (Elder N.E. Ijachi/Otukpo/Benue State/08052612721) RESPONSE to last week’s edition: “Please, let your esteemed readers know that ‘presently’ connotes ‘soon’ when it comes at the end of a sentence. Once it starts a sentence, it means ‘at the moment’. (Charles Iyoha/07033775454)

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08033622806- (SMS Only)

you are aggrieved, understandably, by what seems an effort to disenfranchise you. Keep your eyes on the ball - seek means and peaceful protestations to make your case clear and noted. Your focus is a redress, and getting your PVCs. Muddying the waters or threatening the process in one corner of the country would not profit you, or the system and will likely not have any significant effect on the outcome of the election. Be heard, be firm, be tenacious - but do not attempt to sabotage the process. For example, if you know that you have registered twice, whatever the circumstances leading to the need to re-register, and you were not aware that you simply could have asked to transfer your polling units to your new residence…whatever the reason that made you register twice, it is impossible for INEC to reissue you another card. You have simply invalidated your right to vote. Of course, there are enough reasons to query why INEC and its system could fail in preventing double registration. Ideally, any biometric system should have a fault-proof mode that can detect multiple registration attempts and therefore refuse to allow the input of the same name, date of birth, and such personal details earlier registered. A good system would tell a would-be offender, ignorant or not, that he or she is about to commit a crime, and should thereafter do the needful: request for transfer. However, it is not so for now; therefore, let the offender stop abusing INEC, heating up the polity - and confess his error or foolhardiness. Hopefully, the error could be corrected during another voter registration update. It is too late to cry now. (To Continue)

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

NEWS

ANOTHER TEST FOR EL KANEMI

18.02.2023 PAGE. 29

Joe Aribo Saints’ Future Up in Smoke?

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Joe Aribo in action for Southampton

Joe Aribo

Saints’ Future Up in Smoke? Having failed to recreate his Glasgow Rangers’form at Southampton and now more of a bench warmer at Saint Mary’s, Joe Aribo now risks being shipped back to the Ibrox

oe Aribo’s future at Southampton could be up in flames as the former Rangers star’s struggles to hit form continues. The Nigerian was a top performer for the Ibrox side during his time in Glasgow, topped off by a mammoth 70-game season last year that saw club and country benefit from the attacker’s dedication. Aribo wrote his name in to the annals of Rangers history with a goal in an ultimately heart-breaking Europa League final before a £10m move to the English Premier League followed. Under former boss Ralph Hasenhüttl, Aribo was a regular feature on the South coast and even notched up a few goals and assists for the Saints. But the arrival of Nathan Jones and the resumption following the World Cup has brought just two starts for the 26-year-old despite the Welsh coach revealing his admiration of Aribo. And in the case of Aribo, Jones ruled out a transfer exit in the summer but now that path could re-open. Yet he did lump the attacker in the category of someone who has struggled to ‘integrate’ in to his team. He told Hampshire Live last week: “I’ve tried to sign Joe at two places I was at. I tried to sign him at Luton when he was younger. “I tried to sign him at Stoke City when I was there. I see a lot in Joe and I’ve known him for a long time from the Charlton academy. I know what he can do and there’s a lot of new players here this year that may take a little bit of time. We always knew this was going to be a really difficult

season in terms of the integration. After a bright start to life at St Mary’s, Aribo was dropped following the arrival of Jones, which has seen the Super Eagles midfielder’s post Rangers dream turn sour as Southampton boss brands frozen out playmaker ‘a victim’. The now erstwhile Southampton boss admitted Aribo has been a “victim” of his squad reshuffle with the former Rangers star struggling for game time. The Nigeria international left Ibrox in the summer after a successful stint north of the border, with the playmaker lifting the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup, as well as scoring in a Europa League final before making the switch to St Mary’s. Things got off to a bright start for the 26-year-old after departing Rangers having been handed regular minutes by then Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, starting 10 of his first 14 games on the south coast. However, things appear to be quickly turning sour with the club in the midst of a relegation scrap, Jones was brought in as boss and Aribo found regular game time hard to come by - failing to make an appearance for the last three games despite Southampton being rooted to the foot of the table. Jones admits he had tested other players in Aribo’s role leaving the former Light Blues’ hero on the fringes on the squad. Speaking to the Daily Echo, Jones said: “We’ve got a lot of midfield players, a lot of people. So, we’re just trying to find

a balance in there where we get the best out of everyone. Joe has been a little bit of a victim but he’s played well. He came into the game against Crystal Palace the other day and had an impact. “We’ve had a few out, we’ve had a few people come back in, we’ve had a lot of games, we’ve played James Ward-Prowse in an advanced position and he scored goals so that’s kind of Joe’s position. So, he’s been a victim of a few things really but look, we like Joe and Joe trains hard. He’s a great character in terms of everything. So, it takes time, you know, and as I said, we’re in the thick of it now in terms of games so I’m sure Joe will contribute.” Jones insists Aribo is part of his plans at St Mary’s as he ruled out the prospect of a speedy return to Rangers when quizzed on the prospect of the Nigeria International going back to Scotland. Aribo hasn’t featured since coming off late on in the 2-1 FA Cup win over Crystal Palace on January 7. Southampton have played four games since then, including the midweek Carabao Cup semi-final first leg defeat to Newcastle United, but the former Charlton Athletic playmaker hasn’t even come off the bench. That has led to speculation over a possible return to Ibrox where he became a fans’ favourite with a huge part in the 2021 Scottish Premiership title success and he scored in the Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt. Jones was asked directly about the pos-

sibility of returning to Scotland in his press conference ahead of Southampton’s FA Cup fifth round tie against Blackpool and he ruled it out, saying: “Joe is someone I want to keep here. I like Joe, Joe is definitely someone I’d like to be here. He’s been a bit unlucky not to play since Palace but that will change.” Meanwhile, BBC pundit Kenny Miller is “sure” Michael Beale would have looked at bringing Joe Aribo back to Rangers with the Nigerian currently out of favour at Southampton. Miller feels that if the opportunity arose, it’s something the former QPR boss would certainly consider. “Michael Beale has become known for wanting to play two No.10s in his Rangers team. But at this rate, he could have eight at his disposal for just three slots,” wrote Miller. “With news that Southampton might look to offload Joe Aribo, I’ve even heard some Gers fans say the club should bring him back. “But where would he fit in? Incidentally, if Michael could get Aribo back on loan, I’m sure it’s something he’ll have looked at, given the Nigerian’s contribution last time around.” Aribo has had his time at Ibrox. He was a huge success and he earned his move to the Premier League, but for Rangers, it’s time to move on. His wages would’ve been doubled on the South Coast and financially a move would be hard to complete.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER NPFL TABLE GROUP A TEAM

P W 8 6 8 5 8 4 8 4 8 4 8 2 8 1 8 1 8 1 8 1

D L 2 0 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 3 3 4 2 5 1 6

Pts 20 16 14 14 14 9 7 6 5 4

P W D L Lobi Stars 8 5 1 2 Abia Warriors 8 4 1 3 Rivers United 6 4 1 1 Sunshine Stars 8 3 3 2 Doma United 8 3 3 2 Tornadoes 8 2 3 3 Rangers 7 2 2 3 Wikki Tourist 8 2 2 4 Dakkada 8 2 1 5 Bayelsa 7 1 3 3

Pts 16 13 13 12 12 9 8 8 7 6

Bendel Enyimba Plateau Akwa Utd Remo Stars Shooting Gombe Kwara El Kanemi Nasarawa

GROUP B TEAM

ROUND 7 FIXTURES Abia Warriors El Kanemi Gombe Nasarawa Bayelsa Utd Bendel Lobi Stars Tornadoes Shooting Sunshine

PLAYER El Kanemi in battle with Rangers in NPFL

Dogo Set to Compound El Kanemi’s Woes

fter midweek pumelling in the hands of Plateau United in one of Match 8 fixtures, El Kanemi will this weekend host an equally troubled side, Kwara United Football Club. Former champions, Plateau United on Thurday defeated visiting ElKanemi Warriors 5-0 at the New Jos stadium. The home side got off to a dream start when Sunday Anthony opened the scoring in the 2nd minute and 17 minutes later, Jackson Eru made it 2-0. That goal signalled it was going to be a harvest of goals as the home side got the third in the 27th minute through Ibrahim Mustapha who scored with his trademark header and later apologised to his home club. At the restart of the second half, the Peace Boys who were still thirsty for more goals were duly rewarded with the fourth in the 63rd minute when Michael Tochukwu scored from the spot and two minutes into stoppage time, Uche Onwuasanya, put the icing on the cake with the fifth goal. Their opponent this weekend who just appointed a new Technical Adviser- Kabir Dogo after the resignation of Abdulazeez Mohammed were held to a goalless draw by visiting Remo Stars midweek. Kwara United last Saturday in Ilorin announced former Wikki Tourists of Bauchi handler, Dogo, as the club’s new Technical Adviser. Dogo replaces Mohammed who resigned from the position a few moments earlier. The appointment, according to the club, is with immediate effect. The club’s Chairman, Kumbi Titiloye, said it was very necessary to name another coach, because “allowing a vacuum will not augur well for the club at this crucial moment”.

Dogo’s appointment came shortly after Mohammed’s resignation, just moments after their 0-2 loss to hosts Nasarawa United FC at the New Jos Stadium last Saturday. Under Mohammed this season, Kwara United won just one of their seven matches. They beat Akwa United FC, drew against Gombe United and Shooting Stars Sports Club, and lost their four other matches. NAN reports that the coach, while stepping aside, said the potentials were there for them to do well, but

it was unfortunate that things were going the wrong way. Titiloye said since the club had accepted M o h a m m e d ’ s re s i g n a t i o n , t h e re w o u l d b e n o n e e d t o allow for a vacuum, hence the engagement of Dogo. D o g o h a d a l s o j u s t re s i g n e d a s t h e h a n d l e r o f Wi k k i To u r i s t s FC of Bauchi, another NPFL side. “ We h a v e a c c e p t e d h i s ( M o h a m m e d ’ s ) re signation, as he has accepted full responsibility for the club’s poor run.

v Rivers Utd v Kwara v Plateau Utd v Remo Stars v Enugu Rangers v Enyimba v Doma United v Dakkada v Akwa Utd v Wikki Tourist

TEAM

C. Obioma Enyimba I. Osehenkhoe Bendel Y. Taiye Gombe E. Onyebuchi Plateau I. Seriki Bendel K. Suur Lobi U. Abba Lobi J. Atule Lobi E. Duru Rivers M. Guda Wikki B. Lukman Abia

GOAL 7 5 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3

MATCH 8 RESULTS Tornadoes Dakkada Wikki Tourist Doma United Kwara Utd Insurance Plateau Utd Enyimba Akwa Utd

1 - 1 Bayelsa 2 - 1 Sunshine 2 - 1 Lobi Stars 1 - 0 A.Warriors 0 - 0 Remo Stars 1 - 0 Nasarawa 5 - 0 El Kanemi 2 - 0 Shooting 1 - 0 Gombe Utd

Players Focus Chukwuemeka Obioma seems to be having a penchant for scoring brace as he took off from where he left it, netting his sixth and seventh goals of the season to power Eny-

Chukwuemeka obioma

imba to a 2-0 win against Shooting Stars at the Enyimba Stadium on Wednesday. The forward scored at either end of the first half to ensure his

third consecutive brace on home turf as well as another comfortable win for Enyimba who have now bagged nine points from their last three fixtures.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Arsenal Take Title Push to Villa Park

After suffering a temporary setback midweek in which Arsenal suffered a ﬁrst home defeat to Premier League defending champions-Manchester City, the Gunners would this afternoon visit Aston Villa in their quest to becoming the English champions for the ﬁrst time since 2004. Arteta’s side have only picked a point from their last three matches and would be hoping the Villa Park would bring a change in fortune today Premier League Table TEAM

PTS

Man City Arsenal Man Utd Newcastle Tottenham Brighton Fulham Brentford Liverpool Chelsea Aston Villa Crystal Palace Leicester Nottm Forest Wolves West Ham Leeds Everton Bournemouth Southampton

23 22 23 22 23 21 23 22 21 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22

36 26 10 22 7 11 4 7 8 1 -8 -10 -2 -20 -14 -8 -10 -14 -24 -22

51 51 46 41 39 35 35 34 32 31 28 25 24 24 23 20 19 18 18 15

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Aston Villa v Arsenal 12:30 Brentford v Crystal Palace 15:00 Brighton v Fulham 15:00 Chelsea v Southampton 15:00 Everton v Leeds Utd 15:00 Nottm Forest v Man City 15:00 Wolves v Bournemouth 15:00 Newcastle v Liverpool 17:30 SUNDAY

Man Utd Tottenham

contenders. Each of the hosts’ last five home matches in the Premier League has seen both teams find the back of the net, but only one of those contests has ended in victory for Emery, who needs no briefing on the dangers that his former employers will pose in the West Midlands. It was Villa’s turn to lose 3-1 to Man City at the weekend, and it was Arsenal’s turn to suffer an identical beating at the hands of the champions on Wednesday night - one which knocked the Gunners off their perch at the top of the table as defensive mistakes bedevilled them. Kevin De Bruyne and Bukayo Saka both made the net ripple in the first half, but the City juggernaut came out all guns blazing in the second as Jack Grealish and Erling Braut Haaland made the error-strewn North Londoners pay, extending their winning streak over Arsenal to 11 games in the top flight. What may have started out as a minor blip against Everton is now becoming a slippery slope for the Gunners, who have now failed to win any of their last three Premier League games and are in second place on goal difference as a result, albeit while holding a game in hand on Man City. The destiny of the title is therefore still in their own hands, and a point would send them back to the summit today before Man City tackle Nottingham Forest in the afternoon, but more and more questions are now being asked about the credentials of this young team. Nevertheless, Arsenal still travel to Villa Park as the Premier League’s best-performing away team this

Leicester 14:00 West Ham 16:30

Sociedad Real Betis Mallorca Osasuna

v v v v

Celta Vigo 13:00 Valladolid 15:15 Villarreal 17:30 Madrid 20:00

Sunday Elche Vallecano Atlético

v v v

Espanyol 13:00 Sevilla 15:15 Bilbao 17:30

LA LIGA

Luis Diaz of Liverpool is challenged by Fabian Schar of Newcastle United

aving both fallen to 3-1 defeats to Manchester City in their most recent Premier League encounters, Aston Villa and Arsenal kick off this weekend’s action at Villa Park in today’s lunchtime. Unai Emery reunites with his former club as his current side sit 11th in the top-flight rankings, while the Gunners have been bumped down to second but could quickly regain top spot here. Many wondered how Manchester City would immediately react to the plethora of charges that have been levied on them for alleged financial breaches, but Aston Villa ended up becoming the latest victims of an Etihad onslaught, as the champions responded how champions should. Rodri’s header, Ilkay Gundogan’s tap-in and Riyad Mahrez’s penalty put the game to bed before the halftime whistle blew, but Ollie Watkins did manage to bag a consolation for the visitors before Jhon Duran rattled the woodwork with a thunderous volley in the dying embers. The scoreline could have been more humiliating for Villa had Mahrez not ballooned another gilt-edged chance over the bar, and a second successive loss has further harmed the Lions’ top-half aspirations, as they enter the weekend three points adrift of Chelsea and four behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand. The positives have outweighed the negatives for Villa since Emery took charge, as they have scored in all 11 of their competitive fixtures under the ex-Arsenal and Villarreal boss, but conceding seven goals in their last two games does not bode well before a meeting with the title

v v

term - conceding a joint-low seven goals in the process - and they posted a 1-0 win in this fixture last term before edging a close contest 2-1 at the end of August. Facing the only team in the Premier League to have bested them this season, Newcastle United welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park this evening. The Magpies’ spate of stalemates continued with a 1-1 draw away at Bournemouth at the weekend, while the Reds brought joy to the Anfield faithful by beating Everton 2-0 in the Merseyside derby. Newcastle’s Champions League destiny is very much in their own hands still, but failure to convert draws into wins has harmed their pursuit of a podium finish while also allowing the continental hopefuls below them to make up ground, as the injuries piled up for Eddie Howe’s side on the South Coast. Travelling to Bournemouth for another reunion with his old club, Howe witnessed Marcos Senesi draw first blood for the Cherries on the hour mark, but Miguel Almiron’s 10th goal of the season just before the break ensured that Newcastle would leave with a share of the spoils. That two-goal stalemate may have extended Newcastle’s unbeaten run in the top flight to a whopping 17 games, but the fourth-placed Magpies now only hold a two-point lead over Tottenham Hotspur - albeit with a game in hand - and failure to glean a positive result here could blow the Champions League race wide open. Being held to draws against Leeds United, West Ham United and Crystal Palace in particular have not gone

TODAY

Hot Shot PLAYERS

Erling Haaland Harry Kane Ivan Toney Marcus Rashford Alek Mitrovic Rodrigo Miguel Almiron James Maddison

CLUB

Man City Tottenham Brentford Man Utd Fulham Leeds Utd Newcastle Leicester

GOALS

26 17 14 12 11 10 10 9

for position in mid-table in ninth place, nine points off the top four with a game in hand on Newcastle. European football is certainly not out of the question for Klopp’s side should Monday’s win act as a catalyst for better fortunes to come, but no Reds fans will need reminding of their away defeats to Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford and Wolverhampton Wanderers since the turn of the year, with nine goals conceded and only one scored in that dreadful run. Only two of Liverpool’s last 10 Premier League games on the road have ended in victory, but they left it late to defeat Newcastle 2-1 at Anfield back in August, and Klopp’s team also inflicted the Magpies’ most recent home loss - a 1-0 success at St James’ Park at the end of April.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Hameet Ahuja (left) and Bullet Energy drink Marketing Manager Babatunde Adeyemo presenting the MVP trophy last December in Lagos. Victor Osimhen was on song yesterday against Sassuolo

Osimhen Scores 100th Career Goal Bullet Energy Tournament Tips off March 14 in Asaba

Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, yesterday scored his 100th career goal as his second goal on the night ensured Napoli beat Sassuolo 2-0. His goal at the Mapei Stadium yesterday has also taken the Nigeria international’s goal haul to 19 this season and in good stead to win the Serie A top scorer’s award. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia opened the scoring for Napoli with a brilliant solo goal in the 12th minute. Osimhen doubled the advantage in the 32nd minute when he rifled the ball home from an almost

impossible angle, He found himself with two defenders and scarcely had the space to shoot but caught everyone off guard including the Sassuolo goalkeeper Andrea Consigli when he produced a shot. It therefore came as a litle surprise when Italian coach, Peter Lo Monaco revealed that he believes Osimhen is the best striker that has played for Napoli since Aurelio De Laurentiis became the club’s president. Napoli has been blessed with various attacking talents since

De Laurentiis took over the reins in 2004. Naples has been home to some of the deadliest strikers since then. Top poachers like Ezequiel Lavezzi, Gonzalo Higuain, Edinson Cavani, Dries Mertens, and Arkadiusz Milik have graced the pitch in Naples. The Super Eagles striker is on that list, as he has shown that potency in his three years at the club. Since 2020, The Nigerian striker has scored 46 goals in a Napoli shirt, and he could do even more if he stays in the club.

Brentford Coach Identiﬁes Olise, Eze as Top Palace Players Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira will not be able to count on the services of Wilfried Zaha this afternoon when his side face Brentford in a Premier League game at the Gtech Community Stadium. The Ivory Coast international has missed Palace’s last two games in the topflight due to a hamstring injury, and is few weeks away from returning to group training. Brentford boss Thomas Frank has underlined that the Eagles are a threat in attack even

without the missing Zaha, and urged his players to be at their best if they are to extend their ten-game unbeaten run in the Premier League. The Danish football tactician namechecked former Super Eagles invitees Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze as he spoke about the quality players at the disposal of Vieira. Reacting to Zaha’s absence, Frank was quoted as saying by Brentford’s official website : “[Michael] Olise, [Eberechi] Eze and Zaha - I know Zaha isn’t

playing - are three top individual players. “They have other individual players in [Jean-Philippe] Mateta, [Jordan] Ayew and [Odsonne] Edouard up front. It’s a very strong attack.” Eze and Olise have directly participated in twelve goals (5 goals, 7 assists) between them in this season’s Premier League, with the latter winning the Premier League Goal of the Month award for January 2023 for his stunning strike against Manchester United.

Okoku, Ex-internationals, Commiserate with Siasia over Late Dad In his moment of sadness and grief after the loss of his father, former Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia was strengthened by the presence of his former youth teammates; ex-Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), Paul Okoku, McMilan Ogbomo, patron of Enugu Rangers, Benson Ejingu, Chibuzor Ehilegbu, among others, who consoled with him. Okoku and Ejingu were among friends of Samson Siasia who joined his family during the comforting prayers at the Trem Church, Smyrna/ Atlanta, Georgia, United States

of America, at the celebration of life for the late father of the Nigeria football icon, who is survived by children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Godwin Odiye was not left out of the train of those who condoled with Siasia. Also, in attendance during the church prayer service were Emeka Donnie Ikpa, Eddie and Peter Nosegbe. Many of his friends, former teammates and colleagues, such as the likes of Nathaniel Ogedegbe and Chibuzor Ehilegbu, sent their condolence messages. Also, some of Samson Siasia’s

ex-U-20 national teammates in the 1983 set;. Femi Olukanni, one of the Olukanni brothers, Alphonsus Akhahon, Dehinde Akinlotan, Taju Disu, Chibuzor Ehilegbu, Tarila Okorowanta, Manu Garba, Dahiru Sadi, Otti Amaechi, Sunday Edema Benson and Patrick Udoh, all expressed sorrow and appreciated God for the life Pa Siasia lived, praying that his “soul rest in peace”. Reacting to the outpouring of love from his former teammates and friends in the USA, Siasia expressed profound gratitude to all of them for rallying round him at his time of need.

The Bullet Energy drink Women’s Tournament has been confirmed to take the tip off March 14th in Asaba, Delta State. The all-ladies competition sponsored by Bullet Energy Drink will run through, March 19. The Sam Oguche Foundation which organises the competition said the date is confirmed and the invited teams had since been notified. “We have taken into consideration all national and even international events billed for that period before settling for the date. You know we had planned for February but we had to move it forward as we didn’t want teams travelling in between the election dates. There was also the National Youth Games also planned for Asaba but all that has been taken care of. We hope to

give the players the quality of competition they deserve and it’s all worked out now,” Sam Oguche said in Lagos on Wednesday. The venue for the competition is in top shape now having recently been used for the National Sports Festival in December and is being well maintained for the forthcoming National Youth Games. The winners’ cash prize has been raised by a hundred per cent. The winning team will now take home N2million as the prize money as against N1million for t h e last edition that was held in November in Lagos. The Lagos event though was held for the men and women’s teams The improved package means the runners up will go home with N1million and

the third placed team will earn N500k. The Bullet Energy drink basketball tournament began as a junior camp for young players in Onitsha, Anambra State nearly one decade ago. Kwara Falcons won the men’s trophy in December while the First Bank women won their category. The Bullet Energy Competition helped prepare Kwara Falcons effectively for the Nigeria Basketball Federation’s playoffs. The Ilorin-based team beat the other seven teams in the NBBF playoffs that began just two days after the Bullet Energy tournament. The Asaba competition is expected to help build up the women teams ahead of the national league which is planned to return in the second quarter of the year.

Oyo Now Leads South-west Sports, Says Bolarinwa The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has elevated the state in sporting activities to the first position in the South-west, a feat that was last recorded 43 years ago. The SA to the governor on Youth and Sport, Kazeem Bolarinwa stated this in a chat with THISDAY in Lagos, recently, explaining that the state came fourth, nationally, at last year’s National Sports Festival, Delta 2022. “We came in first position in the South-west, if you’re to look at it and 4th position nationally, which makes us the first in the South-west,” said Bolarinwa, stating that the state achieved this because of the improved funding of sporting activities under Governor Makinde. “His excellency has com-

mitted a lot when it comes to the youths and sport constituency, particularly sport, he has invested a lot when it comes to the welfare of our athletes, accommodation, facilitation, giving them vehicles to enhance their movement, remuneration of both the athletes and their coaches and by ensuring that he gives listening ears to them whenever they come forth with anything that they need and you are going to agree with me that to whom much is given much is expected. That is why in return for excellence, the governor has spared no expense when it comes to giving to the athletes and the sport sector. Oyo State athletes also give their best when it comes to their performances anytime they are expected to.

For example, Oyo State shooting stars have been in relegation for so long, but just last year, we got back into NPFL and eventually we still won.” He said some athletes represented Nigeria at the Commonwealth games and he gave $10,000 to the person that got gold, the person that got silver, $7,500 and the lady that got bronze, $5,000. Governor Makinde, he said, also upgraded sport infrastructure, particularly stadiums, in the geo-political zones of the state. “He remodelled the Adamasigba Stadium, which qualified it to host the Super Eagles U-17 match; He upgraded the Olubadan stadium; Lakan, Igborapa, Durbar stadiums, among others.”

Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Other Matches on GOtv this Weekend ‘ We are ready for the first getting messages from some

Winners to Share N2m Prize Money at National Cross Country Race Winners at today’s National Cross Country race holding in the cold city of Jos will share from a total prize purse of over N2m, organizers have annou nced. The race, the first to be organized in Nigeria in almost 40 years is facilitated by the Youth and Sports Development, chief Sunday Dare who will flag it off at the Rhino Golf Course in Jos. Race coordinator, Tony Osheku says arrangements for a hitch free race have been concluded and the athletes who will be the direct beneficiaries of the race are delighted.

real cross country race in almost four decades,’ says Osheku, a former Nigeria 1500m champion. ‘The excitement here is palpable as the athletes who came on a tour of the course are excited to be part of the race which will signpost a new beginning for distance runners in the country,’ added Osheku who believes chief Dare will be remembered as the man who is relaying the foundation for the development of distance running in Nigeria. Osheku says he is already

of the best distance coaches and managers in the world who have been commending the Sports Ministry for finally giving attention to distance running in Nigeria. ‘Walter Abymayr, a renowned athletics coach and manager is excited we are returning to running cross country which he believes is the solid foundation that we can have to produce world class athletes,’ revealed Osheku. Today’s 10km race will start at 10am with the women’s race taking centre stage.

After failing to defeat Dortmund in the first leg fixture of UEFA Champions league Round of 16 on Wednesday, London giant, Chelsea will be seeking to rebound when they take on Southampton in one of the English Premier League’s weekend games.Chelsea will look to rekindle fans’ faith and return to winning ways when they host The Saints at Stamford Bridge today at 4:00 p.m. on SuperSport Football (GOtv Channel 31). Currently seated mid-table of the English Premier League,

a win over Southampton will keep Chelsea’s chances of competing in one UEFA champions league or the Europa league alive. On Sunday, North London side Tottenham will continue its battle for a UEFA champions league spot as it plays host to East London side, Westham United 5:30pm on SuperSport Football (Channel 31). In La Liga Santander, UEFA Champions League holders, Real Madrid, will travel to Osasuna on Saturday at 9:00 p.m. on Super Sport La

Liga (GOtv Channel 32) in an attempt to level points and eventually displace league leaders, Barcelona. Athletico Madrid will host Athletic Bilbao at 6:30 pm., while league leaders, Barcelona will host Cadiz at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, all on Super Sport La Liga (GOtv Channel 32). GOtv customers will also not be left out of action in Italy as Moza is set to host title defending champions, AC Milan today on SuperSport Select 1 (GOtv Channel 33) at 5:30 pm.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Folarin Balogun in action against PSG during a Lique 1 encounter

Folarin Balogun: Putting Arsenal in Dilemma With 15 goals for modest Stade de Reims, which is ﬁve more than Lionel Messi and two more than Kylian Mbappe and puts him at the top of the scoring charts in the Ligue 1, Folarin Balogun is already putting parent club-Arsenal in a dilemma as to whether to recall him from loan or cash-in on one of this season’s French League’s hottest property as he’s not short of suitors with Marseille as the leading candidate

fter struggling to make much of an impact on loan at Middlesbrough for the second half of last season, it was crucial for Arsenal to get Folarin Balogun’s next move right, and they certainly did just that. At the time, choosing France as the destination was viewed as a risk by some, however, Reims has since emerged as the perfect fit for a player who has rediscovered his goalscoring prowess. As it stands, Balogun is the Ligue 1 top scorer after bagging his 15th league goal on Sunday, that’s five more than Lionel Messi (10) and two more than Kylian Mbappe (13). His performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with both Arsenal legend Thierry Henry and most recently manager Mikel Arteta expressing their delight over his progress. “So happy for him,” Arteta said last week. “He’s a boy with a really clear idea of what he wants to do in his career. Really ambitious, really committed and he’s really brave. We discussed before whether it was the right place to go and other choices that he had. He was so convinced and I’m really happy for him because he deserves what he’s getting. “He’s got something special. That’s why we gave him a long-term contract and have faith in him, and give him the long period that he’s having now, because the period he’s having now is different to the one before at Middlesbrough. The plan is that he finishes his period there, assess the situation where he is, where we are, then sit down and plan the next chapter in his developing career.” Choosing his next step upon returning to Arsenal is not the only decision that Balogun will face, however, as speculation continues to mount over his long-term future

at international level. Although he currently represents England Under-21s, the New York City-born striker has previously played for the US Under-18s and is also eligible for Nigeria through family roots. Speaking to L’Equipe in October last year, Balogun said that he would consider all three countries for his international career. “Just like my future at club level, I am not closing any doors regarding international selection,” Balogun explained. “All options remain open. Above everything, I feel English, but I also have an American side, because I have family in New York and I love going there. I have my grandmother and cousins in Lagos, even if I haven’t been there since I was very young. My mother sometimes speaks to me in Yoruba and it is important to me,” he added. Arsenal icon Bacary Sagna is predicting Balogun to take a similar trajectory to William Saliba and one day shine for the Gunners. Balogun is currently spending the season on loan at French Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims and has taken the league by storm with 15 goals in 22 matches. Balogun progressed through the ranks of Arsenal’s academy and has been regarded as one of the club’s top talents for several years, though he was unable to show his best on loan at Middlesbrough last season. He will be hoping he can follow in the footsteps of Saliba, who had three separate loan spells in France before establishing himself as a crucial first team player this term following his £30 million move from Saint-Etienne in 2019. Speaking to Boyle Sports, Sagna is confident Balogun will one day prove to be an ‘excellent addition to the squad’ and believes the fact he is performing to such a high level at a club not among France’s elite speaks volumes.

“I believe Folarin Balogun will come back to Arsenal one day,” said Sagna. “Look at how William Saliba turned out, he played at Marseille and was the best defender in the Ligue 1. Balogun is doing perfectly while not playing for the best team in that league, which shows how good his finishing is. “Arsenal will be delighted to have him back, he can be an excellent addition to the squad. It’s a blessing to have three young strikers and it’s a good problem to have.” However, Arsenal boss, Mikel Arteta has been urged to sell Balogun this summer by ex-Gunner, Emmanuel Petit, who claims there is no pathway for the striker at the Emirates and says his old club should cash in. The New York-born star came through the academy at Arsenal after moving to England as a young child. He was a prolific goalscorer through the youth ranks and has two goals in 10 first-team appearances. But Petit believes the presence of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah will only get in Balogun’s way. Jesus only signed for Arsenal last summer, while Nketiah penned a new long-term contract at a similar time. Petit reckons Arsenal should sell if they receive a large offer. He told Compare.bet: “Balogun, at the end of the season, I believe Arsenal will receive so many offers for him. “Is it the right time to bring him back to the club, knowing that Nketiah has signed a new contract, and Jesus has just signed? He will be on the bench. “He will only play a couple of games. That will be difficult for him. If they receive a very good offer for him, my answer is: sell him.” Arteta didn’t comment on speculation over Balogun’s future when asked about the forward last week. But he admitted he is

delighted to see him flourish. Arteta said: “I’m so happy for him. He’s a boy that has a really clear idea of what he wants to do with his career. He’s really ambitious, really committed and really brave. “We discussed a lot before he made that move whether it was the right place to go and the other choices he had. He was so convinced. I’m really happy for him because he deserves what he’s getting. “When you look at the numbers and what he is doing, it’s just incredible. It’s very rare to see that. But he’s got something special, that’s why we decided to give him a long-term contract and have faith in him and give him the long period that he needs now, because the loan he is having now is really different to the one he had before at Middlesbrough. G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

IMAGES

edia Consultant, Yeye Bolanle Olatunde, recently in Igede Ekiti, marked the 41st rememberance anniversary of her mother, the late Mama Florence Adebamitale Igbalajobi, while paying the last respects to her father, the late Papa Isaac Adeoye Igbalajobi. Friends, associates and family members who attended the Thanksgiving service at Araromi Baptist Church, Igede Ekiti were feted at Ekiti Baptist High School grounds. L-R: Mr Ayodeji Olaleye; Mrs Funmi Olaleye; Mr Sola Adeoye Igbalajobi; Ms. Abimbola Adeoye Igbalajobi; Mr Femi Adeoye; Yeye Bolanle Olatunde; and Mrs Damilola Adeoye

Dr Wale Fasakin, National President, Unilorin Alumni Association, Chief Ladapo Anisulowo; Chairman ShelterView Homes and Chief Segun Oni, former Governor of Ekiti State

The Elerinmo in-council, representing Oba Dr Michael Odunayo Ajayi (Arowotawaya II)

Mr. Ayodeji Olaleye; Chief Dideolu Falobi (MD, Kresta Laurel) and Mr Gbenga Ajayi

Mr Kolawole, Chairman, Kogi Chapter, Unilorin Alumni Association, Chief Tayo Oginni, Station Manager, Ilorin Airport

R-L: Olori Segilola Oluwole of Unilorin FCT Chapter; and Mr Ajiboye of Ekiti Chapter

Mrs Toun Ajagunna; Mrs Olufunmilayo Olaleye; and Chief Mrs Modupe Olatunde

Mr Toyin Babalola, Mr Banji Osatunberu, Mrs Jumoke Esealuka, Pst. Kemi Oladimeji & Mrs Taiwo Ibikunle Akeju

Prof Olayemi Akinwumi, VC, Federal University Lokoja, Dr Wale Fasakin, and Mr Kolawole

Yeye Yetunde Fosudo, Commissioner, Ekiti SIEC, Hon Mrs Bunmi Oriniowo; National Ex~oﬃcio, APC, Chief Mrs Abimbola Oni

Otunba Aderemi Ilori

Chief Mrs Dupe Olatunde; Mrs Funke Popoola; and Mrs Funmilayo Olatunde

Mr Wale Alade; Hon Toba Adaramola; Mrs Wamide Folorunso ;and Mrs Toyin Adetula

L-R: Mrs Ogunleye Bukola Oludotun; Yeye Bolanle Olatunde; Prince Adesoji Omidiji; and Mr. Gbenga Onile

Bishop & Mrs Michael Ipinmoye (Rtd)

L-R: Raheem Akingbolu, Rt. Hon Hakeem Jamiu (Dep. Speaker, EKHA)

Prophet Charles Oke

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 18, 2023

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK

How to Choose The Right Transmission Oil for Your Car Once the car’s combustion engine generates the power, the transmission system moves it to the wheels. The power transmission process requires continuous friction between the moving metal parts of the transmission system. That causes the deterioration of its components and results in expensive repairs. That is why using transmission oil is crucial. Choosing the transmission fluid depends on various factors, including the car manufacturer and the transmission type. Here is what you need to know about it. Staff and guests at a press briefing/revealing of Mikano Motors new brand addition - Changan Auto at the Mikano Motors head office, VI, Lagos… recently

Mikano Motors Names Changan Auto as its Latest Brand Addition

KH VXVSHQVH LV ÀQDOO\ RYHU DV Mikano Motors reveals the identity of its mystery new brand to be Changan Auto. ,Q D SUHVV EULHÀQJ DW WKH 0LNDQR 0RWRUV +HDG 2΀FH VI, Lagos, esteemed members of the press were engaged in a session to explore the latest addition to Nigeria’s fastest growing automotive powerhouse. Prior to the reveal, Mikano Motors had teased audiences’ pan- Nigeria for a month, ZLWK HQGRUVHPHQWV IURP &HOHEULW\ LQÁXHQFHUV such as Celebrity barman- Pascal Chibuike, aka Cubana Chief Priest, Jemima Osunde, Akah Nnanni, Sydney Talker and Auto Enthusiasts Supercars of Nigeria and CarContinent who were DOVR LQ DWWHQGDQFH IRU WKH R΀FLDO UHYHDO $OVR in attendance were a few customers who had already purchased from the Changan line-up by SUH RUGHU DPRQJVW WKHP ZHUH WKH ÀUVW RZQHUV of the Changan CS85 Coupe, who also picked up their cars on the same day.

With the addition of Changan (formerly distributed by another Nigerian dealer), Mikano Motors becomes the sole distributor of brands from 3 of Chinas “Big Four” auto giants; Saic Motors (Maxus), Dongfeng Motor Corporation (ZNA), and now Changan Automobile Group. Established in 1862, Changan Auto is China’s oldest automaker and one of the pioneers of the automotive industry. Their sojourn into building and retailing passenger vehicles, however, started 32 years ago. Since then, the brand has continued to gain immense popularity worldwide IRU LWV YDOXH RͿHULQJV DFURVV DOO VHJPHQWV RI WKH automotive industry with sales in the region of 8,500 units sold daily worldwide, under its brands, including Changan, Oshan, and Kaicene, and also its joint ventures with foreign brands like Lincoln, Ford and Mazda known as Changan Ford and Changan Mazda respectively, since 2012. With consistent focus on evolution and innovation, Changan Auto has set its sights on a fully electric line-up by 2025. The General Manager, Mikano Motors- Ralph

Haidar, stated that “Mikano Motors partnership with Changan Auto is a powerful alliance that will further change the landscape of automobile ownership in Nigeria, in the wake of the success of the Geely brand.” He further stated that “We are expecting around 15 models from this brand, which will be complementary to our line-up from Geely Auto, Maxus and ZNA”. In a bold and unprecedented move, Mikano Motors- Changan ZLOO EH RͿHULQJ D \HDU NP ZKLFKHYHU FRPHV ÀUVW ZDUUDQW\ WR DOO LWV QHZ FXVWRPHUV ZKLOH RͿHULQJ XS WR D \HDU ZDUUDQW\ WR H[LVWing Changan owners. With 15 models, Mikano Motors promises that there will be a car to suit everyone’s needs. ´7KLV LV WKH ÀUVW RI LWV NLQG LQ DOO RI $IULFDµ and one of the reasons why the Changan brand is performing well in some West African countries, especially of note, Ivory Coast. This is also true for many Gulf countries like Qatar, -RUGDQ DQG 6DXGL $UDELD ZKHUH WKH\ RͿHU HYHQ higher warranties.

Range Rover Autobiography Wins Nigeria’s Luxury SUV Award of The Year

oscharis Motors Plc., one of the subsidiaries of the respected Nigerian owned conglomerate, Coscharis Group has been rewarded through one of its iconic luxury brands, Range Rover Autobiography, as the Luxury SUV of the Year and a posthumous award to the Group’s late Vice President, Mrs. Charity Maduka for her contribution to the automotive sector during her lifetime. The awards were presented at this year’s Nigerian Auto Journalists Association award night held recently at the Oriental Hotels, Lagos. The award for the luxury SUV category was keenly contested with other tested luxury brands but the Range Rover Autobiography came tops according to the organizers after strong consideration of the market acceptance of the Range Rover Autobiography in all UDPLÀFDWLRQV 7KH 5DQJH 5RYHU $XWRELography variant has its special appeal and style that resonates with its priority audience when it comes to luxury, class, comfort and performance. Receiving the award on behalf of Coscharis Motors, Mr. Abiona Babarinde, the General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group dedicated the award to all the Jaguar LandRover brand enthusiasts for their acceptability of the all new Range Rover Autobiography as their preferred luxury automobile of choice. In his words, “this DZDUG RQO\ UHFRQÀUP WKH H[DFW SRVLWLRQ RI the all new Range Rover Autobiography as the peak of the pack when it comes to the most loved and reliable luxurious automobile

What is Transmission Oil? Transmission oil (transmission fluid) lubricates the metal parts and bearings in your vehicle’s transmission. That way, it ensures these components operate in harmony and keeps them safe as they move. Above all, it protects the gear system from overheating. Types of Transmission Fluids Vehicle transmissions can be manual or automatic. Each requires the application of the appropriate fluid. Let’s learn more about the difference between manual and automatic oil: Manual Transmission Oil Manual transmission oil has existed since the evolution of the first vehicles. Today, these fluids are used in older car models. Manual transmission fluid should contain quality anti-wear and load-carrying additives to enhance system protection. Manual transmission oil is thicker than its automatic counterpart. Unsurprisingly, we should not use it in vehicles with automatic transmissions. Even newer car models with manual transmissions also use automatic fluid. Manual transmission oils are usually brown to amber and have a more intense smell. Before purchasing it, make sure you read the manufacturer’s manual. Automatic Transmission Oil Automatic transmission oils play a fundamental role in lubricating automatic transmissions and power serving systems. They also serve as torque converters. Automatic transmission fluids are thinner than their manual counterparts and are red. However, the color of the lubricant can vary depending on the manufacturer. The color-coding system helps users easily differentiate transmission oils from engine oil and other fluids that run through the vehicle. Translucent red also makes it easier to identify contaminants and transmission fluid leaks. Types of Automatic Transmission Oils A transmission system consists of a clutch, a gearbox, a propeller shaft, a differential, and a live axle. There is a continuous metal-on-metal contact between these parts, causing damage. To maintain the efficacy of your car’s transmission system, you need to lubricate it with suitable oil. Automatic transmission fluids have multiple applications. In addition to passenger car transmission oils, you can also find agriculture, construction, heavy-duty, and hydrostatic transmission oil types.

Range Rover Autobiography

for discerning enthusiasts when it comes to luxury in the Sport Utility Vehicle segment and the more reason why this award is dedicated to all our numerous customers for their acceptability.” Furthermore, a posthumous award was presented to the Company’s late Vice President, Mrs Charity Maduka. To also receive this special award was one of the children of the deceased in person of Mr Cosmas Junior Maduka who is the Executive Director, Aftersales and Special Duties in Coscharis Group, who thanked the organiz-

ers for honoring his mum. He said, “this award is special to both the family and WKH RUJDQL]DWLRQ DV WKH ÀUVW WR EH UHFHLYHG posthumously since my mum passed on. This brings back great memories of what she stood for all her life which is creating value for all stakeholders which still remains the focal point of the Coscahris brand she built with my father from nothing to something as a young couple which remains a legacy that both the family and the organization are leveraging on to drive the Coscharis brand to greater heights till date.”

Engine Oil Vs. Transmission Oil Engine oil and transmission oil are not the same. Here is why you should not use motor oil in your transmission. Different Purposes and Uses As their mere name says, these types of fluids are engineered for different operating environments. Engine oil is an essential part of the internal combustion engine. Its main task is to reduce the friction between the engine’s moving parts. (Source: Valvoline

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

AUTO WORLD

Massilia Motors Unveils All-New Mitsubishi Outlander

he all-new Mitsubishi Outlander was unveiled last Friday, February 10, 2023, in an impressive event at the Mitsubishi Motors showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos. Already a hit in markets where it has been launched, the new Outlander, which is a complete upgrade from its well-known predecessor, comes in two variants: the H-Line and the P-Line, both of which come with a 20-inch wheel and deliver incredible performance on demand. In terms of aesthetics, Mitsubishi raised the bar with this mid-size SUV model. With the new Mitsubishi dynamic front shield, a distinctive and robust design, and a rear sculpted hexagon inspired by the Pajero back gate, the new Outlander is a real beauty to behold. This is complemented by an upperclass interior cabin that provides high noise and vibration isolation, as well as improved seating and comfort. Its 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder petrol engine delivers enhanced horsepower and torque distribution to give you seamless acceleration, while stateof-the-art S-AWC technology comes with 6 available drive modes: Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, and Mud. This allows you

WR FRQÀGHQWO\ PRYH DURXQG LQ \RXU new Mitsubishi Outlander regardless RI WKH WHUUDLQ RQ DQG RͿ URDG FLW\ RU countryside. In building the All-New Outlander, so many considerations have been put in place, such as parking sensors for the front and rear, an electric parking brake, and ventilated disks for the front and rear brakes. Some other features coming with the new vehicle for the convenience of the owner are adjustable side mirrors, power seats, a radio with MP3, Bluetooth, and smart phone display audio, among others, and the booth kick motion technology. The Sales General Manager, Massilia Motors, Mr. Olatunji Itiola, stated that “At Massilia Motors, our commitment is to meet customers’ mobility expectations.” “We are excited to introduce this 0LWVXELVKL ÁDJVKLS ZKLFK HPERGLHV pure Japanese craftmanship, to the Nigerian market, and we trust that the all-improved Mitsubishi Outlander will provide all the comfort, safety, and driving pleasure needed for our customers to drive their ambitions.”

L-R: General Manager, Massilia Motors, Mr. Olatunji Itiola; Managing Director, Kewalram Chanrai Auto/Transport Vertical, Anil Sahgal; General Manager, Kewalram Chanrai Auto, Sudeep Mittal; Managing Director of Massilia Motors, Mr. Patrice Porte; and Head of Marketing & Communications, Massilia Motors, Funmi Abiola at the oﬃcial launch of the All-New Mitsubishi Outlander at the Mitsubishi showroom, Victoria Island, Lagos… recently

Mercedes-Maybach Launches its First Plug-in Hybrid Model

he Mercedes-Maybach brand has been regarded as the benchmark for automotive luxury, style and status since Wilhelm and Karl Maybach began building automobiles in 1921. Their aim was to create “the very best of the very best,” an aspiration that continues to characterise the unique aura of Mercedes-Maybach to this day. The legendary brand is continually reinventing itself to exceed the highest expectations of the extraordinary. With success: the current Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has seen steadily growing demand since its market launch in 2021. “With our first plug-in hybrid model, we are combining the luxury experience typical of Maybach with emission-free local driving when in electric driving mode. The Mercedes-Maybach S 580 e represents a pivotal step in the transformation of our heritage brand into an electric future. We will present our first fully electric model as early as 2023.”

Daniel Lescow, Head of Mercedes-Maybach at Mercedes-Benz Group AG The Mercedes-Maybach S 580 e opens up an even more impressive experience of silence. In purely electric driving mode, the already exceptionally quiet interior becomes even quieter. The saloon glides along almost silently and with zero local emissions. Electric-specific features are discreetly integrated with typical Maybach expertise – such as the concealed charging socket on the left side of the vehicle and blue colour accents in the headlights or the battery charging state in the instrument panel. The basis of the hybrid drive is a highly efficient inline six-cylinder engine from the current Mercedes-Benz petrol engine generation, combining 270 kW/367 hp of powerful performance with low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. A combined system output of 375 kW/510 hp and maximum torque of 750 Nm guarantees superior driving performance.

The Mercedes-Maybach ﬁrst plug-in hybrid model

Still on the Penalty Point System A fortnight ago, I accosted a mother of three along 4th Avenue in Gwarinpa, Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory. She was driving an ash coloured Toyota Camry with an Abuja registration QXPEHU 7KH ZRPDQ·V RͿHQFH ZDV GULYLQJ ZLWK her 6 years son and 5 years daughter seated in the front passenger seat, which was risky, unsafe and illegal. I know a number of mothers and men who indulge in this practice won’t see anything wrong in this. However, if this was in any developed clime, this risky driving behaviour will be viewed GLͿHUHQWO\ ZLWK WRXJKHU SXQLVKPHQW 7KLV ZDV ZK\ I took my time to enlighten her on the inherent risks, as well as educate the lovely children instead of issuing a citation. ,QWHUHVWLQJO\ ZKHQ , FRQFOXGHG WKH ÀUVW SDUW RI my focus last week on Penalty Point, I informed \RX RI WKH SURYLVLRQV RI WKH 1DWLRQDO 5RDG 7UD΀F Regulations which makes it compulsory for all occupants of a vehicle to strap themselves. Even though a lot of progress has been made in this direction by the Federal Road Safety Corps and the motoring public, some people are yet to come to terms with the value of the seatbelt as a safety GHYLFH LQ WKH HYHQW RI D URDG WUD΀F FUDVK Seatbelt use violation attracts 2 points and a penalty of N2, 000. It refers to driving a vehicle without using a seat belt and/or without ensuring that other passengers in the vehicle use seatbelts. I once told you that authorities in the UK are concerned that around 30 percent of people who died in cars in 2021 were not wearing a seat belt – some 200 men, women, and children. This is despite the fact that most drivers and passengers now comply without a second thought. In fact just under 95 percent of drivers in all vehicle types were wearing seatbelt in autumn of 2021. 7KH ÀQH IRU QRW ZHDULQJ D VHDW EHOW FXUUHQWO\ stands at £100 although observers are calling for PXFK VWLͿHU SHQDOWLHV ZKLFK LV P\ SRVLWLRQ WRR

SAFE DRIVING with Jonas Agwu

amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps.

Excessive speeding remains our number one major infraction responsible for over 56 percent RI UHFRUGHG URDG WUD΀F FUDVKHV DQG GHDWKV 6SHHG OLPLW YLRODWLRQ DWWUDFWV SRLQWV DQG D SHQDOW\ ÀQH of N3000- it refers to driving a vehicle or riding a motorcycle/tricycle on the highway in excess of the prescribed speed limits for a category of vehicle or road. Maximum speed limits for different categories of motor vehicles are as follows: 100km/Ph for cars on the expressway, 90 km/Ph for taxis and buses while in built-up areas, the limit is 20-50 km/Ph. When I set out to write on “The Penalty Point System”, I did not expect positive reactions from readers simply because very few are excited about being arrested. I, however, did expect some readers WR ÀQG WKH WRSLF WLPHO\ VLQFH WKH IRFXV ZDV WR JXLGH PRWRULVWV RQ UHOHYDQW WUD΀F RͿHQFHV DQG SHQDOWLHV My joy therefore knew no bounds when one of my writers complained that I left out overloading ZKLFK WR KLP LV D VHULRXV RͿHQFH ,Q KLV WH[W KH said, “you left out overloading of goods and SDVVHQJHUV WKLQN LW VKRXOG DWWUDFW D ÀQH µ 7RGD\ , ZLVK WR FRQFOXGH RQ WKHVH RͿHQFHV HYHQ though I fear that I might end up not treating some others. This is why I am using this medium to plead with my editor to allow me to run this piece for another week to ensure that everything

DERXW WUD΀F LQIUDFWLRQV DV FRQWDLQHG LQ WKH QRWLFH RI RͿHQFH ERRNOHWV ZKLFK , UHIHUUHG WR ODVW ZHHN is fully exhausted. 0\ ÀUVW IRFXV IRU WKLV ZHHN LV RQ FRUSRUDWH RͿHQFHV WKDW UHODWH WR FRPSDQLHV VXFK DV FRQVWUXFWLRQ companies and hospitals. This is because quite often these two constitute hindrances to our operations. For some years running, hospitals who should FRPSOHPHQW RXU UHVFXH HͿRUWV RIWHQ IUXVWUDWH RXU UHVFXH WHDPV E\ UHMHFWLQJ URDG WUD΀F FUDVK YLFWLPV RQ ÁLPV\ H[FXVHV VXFK DV WKH DEVHQFH RI beds victims and in some cases they insist on the SD\PHQW RI VSHFLÀHG VXPV EHIRUH WKH DGPLVVLRQ of the victims. Although there is a measure of improvement in this direction, there are still some bottlenecks and that is why I have chosen to start with the Medical Personnel/Hospital Rejection Of Road &UDVK 9LFWLP ZKLFK FDUULHV QR SRLQWV ZLWK D ÀQH RI N50, 000. It refers to Hospital or Medical personnel refusal to accept and administer treatment on Road Crash survivors or accept corpse(s) of victim(s). The next is Inadequate Construction Warning 6LJQ 7KLV HTXDOO\ KDV QR SRLQW EXW FDUULHV D ÀQH RI N50, 000.It refers to failure of a road construction company to provide adequate warning and/or directional/diversion signs at road repairs or road FRQVWUXFWLRQ VLWHV 7KH ODVW FRUSRUDWH RͿHQFH LV Construction Area Speed Limit Violation which FDUULHV SRLQWV DQG D ÀQH RI 1 ,W UHIHUV WR the failure to adhere to speed limits posted at construction sites and it is applicable to Construction companies. /HW PH QRZ IRFXV RQ WKH RͿHQFHV WKDW DͿHFW \RX DV D PRWRULVW 7KH ÀUVW LV $VVDXOWLQJ 0DUVKDO 2Q 'XW\ ZKLFK FDUULHV SRLQWV DQG DWWUDFWV D ÀQH RI 1 7KLV RͿHQFH UHIHUV WR PDQKDQGOLQJ D Road Marshal in the course of his lawful duties. 7KLV RͿHQFH PD\ DWWUDFW SURVHFXWLRQ LQ D ODZ FRXUW I must emphasize that even though some operatives sometimes constitute themselves to

nuisance which we condemn and punish when reported, it is not an excuse for you to manhandle that Marshal simply because you are a retired wrestler or boxer from your village. $QRWKHU RͿHQFH LV $WWHPSWLQJ 7R &RUUXSW Marshal On Duty which carries 10 points and D ÀQH RI 1 7KLV RͿHQFH UHIHUV WR RͿHULQJ bribe (monetary or material) to Road Marshal(s) E\ WUD΀F RͿHQGHU V LQ RUGHU WR SHUYHUW WKH FRXUVH RI MXVWLFH 7KLV RͿHQFH PD\ DWWUDFW SURVHFXWLRQ in a court of law. Caution Sign Violation is often ridiculed by motorists as just a caution sign yet the absence of this in the event of a broken down vehicle has FODLPHG OLYHV ,W FDUULHV SRLQWV DQG D ÀQH RI 1 000. It refers to failure to display the C-caution sign at the front and the rear of the vehicle in the case of a broken down vehicle. In addition, failure to put in place red lights at the rear of the vehicle at night. 7KH RͿHQFH UHIHUUHG WR DV 'R 1RW 0RYH 9LRODWLRQ FDUULHV SRLQWV DQG D ÀQH RI 1 It refers to driving a vehicle on which ‘Do Not Move’ sticker has been pasted indicating that the vehicle’s movement has been restricted. Examples of vehicle(s) on which ‘Do Not Move’ sticker may be pasted are; a rickety vehicle, Vehicle waiting towing and a Vehicle suspected to be stolen. I am sure that over 50 percent of motorists must have been pulled over for the Driver’s Licence 9LRODWLRQ ZKLFK FDUULHV SRLQWV DQG D ÀQH RI 1 7KLV RͿHQFH UHIHUV WR GULYLQJ ZLWKRXW being in physical possession of a valid Driver’s License for the category of vehicle being driven. For the purpose of this piece, I think it is appropriate to once again refresh our minds on the various classes of Driver’s License which are as follows:-Class A refers to Motorcycle while Class B refers to Motor vehicle of less than 3 tonnes gross weight other than motorcycle, taxi, stage carriage or omnibus.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R: Solution Architect, Oracle Cloud, Ismail Salami; Account Manager, Oracle Cloud, Funmilola Akeju; Chief Executive Oﬃcer of 21st Century Technologies, Wale Ajisebutu and Country Head, Oracle Cloud, Suzoma Ekwebelem at the launch of Oracle Exadata@customer cloud infrastructure in Lekki Lagos...recently

L-R: Incoming HOD, Department of Telecommunications Engineering, ABU Zaria, Dr. Abdoulie Momodou Tekanyi; CEO, 9mobile,Juergen Peschel; Deputy Vice Chancellor, ABU Zaria, Prof. Ahmed Doko Ibrahim; Executive Director, Regulatory and Corporate Aﬀairs, 9mobile, Abdulrahman Ado; outgoing HOD, Department of Telecommunications Engineering, ABU Zaria, Prof. A.D. Usman and Director, Enterprise Business at 9mobile, Olakena Fatusa during 9mobile’s visit to ABU Zaria... recently

Preordering of Galaxy S23 Continues at Gloworld Shops In continuation of the preordering exercise for the new Galaxy S-23 phone in the ongoing Glo-Samsung partnership, Nigerians have been visiting Gloworld shops across the country to SUH RUGHU GLͿHUHQW PRGHOV RI WKH PXFK FRYHWHG smartphone. While new customers have been trooping to Gloworld shops to take advantage of the rare opportunity, others who had earlier preordered their phones have started receiving their S23 devices. Digital Services Company, Globacom, and world’s leading manufacturers of electronic

devices, Samsung, had recently announced an exclusive partnership which allows Glo subscribers to own the Galaxy S23 smartphone. Globacom, at the commencement of the SDUWQHUVKLS VDLG ´)RU WKH ÀUVW WLPH LQ 1LJHULD ZH DUH EULQJLQJ H[FOXVLYH RͿHU IRU *OR FXVWRPers & lovers of classy and hi-tech phones with Samsung Galaxy S23. Globacom is fully committed to innovative and value adding services that SURYLGH LPPHQVH EHQHÀWV IRU RXU VXEVFULEHUVµ The preordering exercise which commenced on February 2 gives phone lovers who wish to purchase the device exclusive customized

packaging, strictly for Glo customers. 7KH RͿHU ZKLFK LQFOXGHV VWDQGDUG DQG (FR SDFNDJHV KDV 6 8OWUD SKRQH DV WKH ÀUVW RSWLRQ and it comes in 3 variants of Black, Green and Cream which can be preordered with 25% deposit. They also come with buds 2pro, grip cover and 25W travel adapter as gifts. The second category is S23 Plus which comes in four variants of Black, Green, Cream and lavender and can also be preordered with 25% of the price while the last model is S23 which comes in two types. The standard type can be preordered on payment of N200,000 out of the 655,000 price

while the Eco package can be pre-ordered by paying 25% N837,900. The company also explained that 18GB bonus data awaits Samsung S23 customers in “Glo Smartphone Festival Data Plans”, while 3GB additional data will be enjoyed on a monthly basis for 6 months by customers on Glo network. Globacom advised other Glo subscribers who DUH \HW WR WDNH DGYDQWDJH RI WKH RͿHU WR NH\ into the package by visiting Gloworld shops in their locations to preorder their preferred type of Galaxy S23 phone before the closing date of February 25.

21st Century Partners Adrenalina Enters Market, Oracle on Exadata Cloud Targets SMEs Growth Foremost Information Communication Technology company, 21st Century Technologies, in partnership with Oracle has launched the oracle Exadata@customer cloud infrastructure to provide custom communication solutions and services to enterprises. By the newly launched Exadata cloud service, businesses across all sectors can solve day-today challenges arising from rapidly changing environment. Speaking at the launch which took place at 21st Century corporate headquarters in Lekki, Lagos, Chairman of 21st Century Technologies, Wale Ajisebutu specified that businesses will be able to locate Oracle Exadata Cloud directly in their own data centers or receive the technology as a managed service from 21st Century. He added that subscribers will simultaneously benefit from the managed services offered by

21st Century technologies. He informed further that the new technology is targeted at clients who desire cloud benefits, but unable to move their databases to the public cloud due to factors such as sovereignty laws, industry regulations, corporate policies and security requirements, amongst others. “The Oracle Exadata Database Service on Exadata Cloud@Customer would however deliver the world’s most advanced database cloud to customers who require their databases to be located on-premises”, Ajisebutu said. Also speaking at the launch, Country Head, Oracle Cloud Nigeria, Uzoma Ekwebelem explained that the new technology would provide customers with the needed conditions relating to on-site maintenance of data and security standards with “cloud as you pay” model for organisations that do not want to move their data to public cloud.

A newly-launched co-working space, Adrenalina has unveiled innovations aimed at facilitating growth of SMEs and businesses in the country. The organisation explained that its presence in the market would also engender opportunities for collaboration, innovations and training for its target audience, including entrepreneurs, creatives and freelancers. While addressing the press during the launch, company’s Head of Business Success Excellence, Tejumade Salami said their services are focused on emerging businesses in Africa. He added that the service, which is available on subscription basis, included both physical DQG YLUWXDO VSDFHV VXFK DV R΀FH DQG KRVWLQJ venues, infrastructure support, training, business intelligence and business support services. He said, “The idea is to enable creatives, entrepreneurs and freelancers have more

enhancing environments to work, innovate and collaborate. We are also looking at building an ecosystem by integrating a lot of value-driving initiatives to enhance growth and success of our subscribers.” He stated that the company will host events such as book readings, seminars, as well as publish a periodic newsletter and podcast to educate and entertain. &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2΀FHU RI $GUHQDOLQD Chukwuerika Achum explained that the organisation’s interest in SMEs lies in their prospects for economic growth, adding that the sector alone makes up over 90 percent of businesses and accounts for over 40 percent of the GDP of developing economies. He stressed further that the thirst for Africa and indeed Nigeria’s development birthed the business initiative.

Unilever Emerges ALAT Fetes Customers with HP, T4 Education Announce Africa’s Top Employer ’Express Love’ Campaign Africa Education Medal 2023 &RQVXPHU JRRGV ÀUP Unilever has been declared the number one ‘Top Employer in Africa’ at the Top Employer 2023 Awards. The organisation is being recognised for the sixth time running. The company bagged the prestigious honour in four different countries of its operations, including Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, and Nigeria. ,W DOVR HPHUJHG WRS ÀYH LQ 6RXWK $IULFD DQG FHUWLÀHG LQ Zimbabwe and Ethiopia. According to the award organisers, Top Employers Institute, the award followed a keenly contested process of measurements based on the HR Best Practices Survey. It noted that the programme FHUWLÀHV RUJDQLVDWLRQV EDVHG on their commitment to their

people through exceptional HR policies, participation, and results of their HR Best Practices Survey. It explained that the survey covers six HR domains, consisting of 20 topics including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, wellbeing, and Sustainability. Managing Director of Unilever West Africa, Carl Cruz stated that the recognition was a testament to the company’s ability to deliver excellent employment experience consistently across the continent. He said, “This pleasant news DWWHVWV WR RXU ÀUP UHVROYH WR DOZD\V SXW RXU SHRSOH ÀUVW LQ all we do as a business. Our people will always remain our number one priority as an organisation.”

Nigeria’s digital bank, ALAT by Wema has unveiled a new campaign ‘Express Love with ALAT’ as part of ways to show love to its customers during valentine season. According to the organisation, the campaign is designed to help customers express love in an exciting manner. Acting Head of Brand and Marketing Communication at Wema Bank, Morolake Philip Ladipo stated that the campaign further demonstrates the value the bank places on its customers. “Our customers are very central to all we do, and we will continue to create value to enable their lifestyle”, she said. She further explained

that the campaign, open to prospective and existing customers, comes with a lot of fantastic prizes. She said, “The campaign began with an announcement asking customers to express their own love language through art, music, poetry, or acts of kindness. “This could be in the form of cash transfers to gift someone an experience with ALAT Rewards; paying the bill of a loved one using ALAT or sending someone some airtime or data via the bank’s platform to catch up with them over the phone. “There is no doubt that the campaign is going to be an exciting one, as customers JHW WR H[SUHVV WKHLU DͿHFtion to their loved ones in GLͿHUHQW ZD\V µ

T4 Education has anQRXQFHG WKH WDNH RͿ RI WKH second edition of the Africa Education Medal, urging TXDOLÀHG SOD\HUV WR VHQG LQ their entries. An initiative of T4 Education and Hewlett-Packard (HP), in collaboration with Microsoft, Africa Education Medal is acclaimed to be Africa’s most prestigious education accolade. The medal honours outstanding individual who has demonstrated impact, leadership, and advocacy LQ WKH ÀHOG RI HGXFDWLRQ It recognises the tireless work of those who are transforming education across the continent and celebrates stories of those who have lit the spark of change to inspire

others to take up the torch. The 2nd edition of the conWHVW ZDV R΀FLDOO\ DQQRXQFHG by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng at the Transforming Education in Africa Summit co-hosted by T4 Education, Teach For All and HP. Phakeng who won the medal last year encouraged change makers in Nigeria and across the continent to apply for the medal. “It was the greatest honour to be recognised for my life’s passion. Winning the Africa Education Medal 2022 gave me a global platform to advocate for that work and I hope it has inspired others across our continent to further the cause of African education.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 18, 2023

PEOPLE Celebrating Akachi, the Mother of Books Uzor Maxim Uzoatu

uietude sits well with Professor Akachi AdimoraEzeigbo, and calmness is the word for her, but the music was so compelling that she had to stand up and dance. The mellifluous music issuing forth from Gerald Eze and his Ichoku Ensemble put a smooth smile on the face of Prof Akachi and soft dexterity to her dancing steps. Prof Akachi-Ezeigbo’s sister, Prof Chinyere Stella Okunna, who had been sitting beside the celebrant was held in rapt awe by the phenomenon. The date, Saturday, February 11, 2023, stays unforgettable because of the birthday party observed for prolific awardwinning author, Prof Akachi AdimoraEzeigbo, at a comfy venue called Awka Window on America at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State. The personable Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof Charles Okechukwu Esimone, was on hand to conduct the rousing opening ceremony to the event sponsored by Abibiman Publishing UK, James Currey Society and intervolving the creative literary giants of Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Prof Onyeka Nwelue, the inimitable facilitator and publisher of Abibiman Publishing UK and Director of James Currey Society, Oxford somehow had his presence felt even as he was faraway in England. Dr Ifeoma Odinye, Director of the Onyeka Nwelue-instituted Akachi Azeigbo Prize for Literature, supervised the inaugural awards to the winners: Uche Nnyagu – At the Centre of No-Man’s Land (Prose); Ikechukwu Asika – Pain in the Bone (Drama); Oloyede Michael – Lagos is Killing Me (Poetry); Onyebuchi Ile – The Text, The Critic and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria (Non-Fiction); Onyinye Constance Amamgbo – The Old Man and the Donkey (Children’s Literature). The Akachi Ezeigbo Literary Day bore witness to distinguished scholars discussing under the encompassing theme: “What Do We Do With A Woman Like Akachi Ezeigbo.” There were engaging topics such as “Reading Culture Versus Excessive Materialism: Implications for Global Concern” that engaged the fine minds of Profs Harris Odumegwu, Greg Obiamalu, Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Ngozi Ezenwa-Ohaeto, Ephraim Chukwu, and Mbanefo Ogene, The celebrant Prof Akachi-Ezeigbo was engaged in an animated discussion with Dr Ifeoma Odinye on the topic “My Life as a Reader.” Prof Ezeigbo revealed how as a youngster she was so engrossed in reading a book that she didn’t know when a machetewielding madman entered the compound and nearly killed her! As a student at Elelenwa Girls, she was an avid reader and was entrusted with the library where she almost read all the books. The young Akachi had the benefit of an enlightened DO father who encouraged her reading and she is now paying the man back by having his name, Adimora, attached to her creative works. She got married while in the university to a supporting husband who helped with the care of the children while she took her PhD at University of Ibadan and did research in the UK before the couple joined up to teach in the University of Lagos. As an extension of the discourse, Prof Okunna and Prof Lilian Orogbu who did more than 200 interviews throughout Nigeria gave perspective to the topic “When a Million Nigerians Vote” discussed by Dr Onyebuchi Ile, Ozioma Ajemba, Dr Ebele Okpala, Dr Nkemakonam Aniukwu, Dr Emmanuel Ebekue, and moderated by

Professor Akachi Adimora Ezeigbo (3rd from left), surrounded by friends, cutting her birthday cake.

Gerald and Ichoku Ensemble performing at the event

The pathfinding theatre icon of solo performance, Prof Greg Mbajiorgu, author and actor of the one-actor play The Minister’s Son, said that Prof Akachi Ezeigbo was her literary mother whom he always feels free to simply call Akachi. Mbajiorgu lamented that his Ihiala part of Anambra State was starved of writers as opposed to other sections of the state where one family, for instance, can produce Profs Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo and Stella Okunna, the dynamic sisters who always gave back to their Uga community in Aguata LGA by always leading other professors to organize extra-mural classes for young students Rev Sister Dr Adaoma Igwedibia. The topic “I Want to be a Writer: Different Perspectives and the Tangible Reality of Role Models” was moderated by Dr Martha

Egenti and discussed by Prof Alex Asigbo, Prof Tracie Utoh-Ezeajughi, Prof Ifeyinwa Ogbazi, Prof Nkechinyere Nwokoye, Dr Adaobi Ihueze and Dr Ngozi Ozoh.

James Eze, the author of the awardwinning poetry collection dispossessed, rose up in celebration of the person and work of Prof Akachi-Ezeigbo, stressing that she should be celebrated nationally and internationally. The pathfinding theatre icon of solo performance, Prof Greg Mbajiorgu, author and actor of the one-actor play The Minister’s Son, said that Prof Akachi Ezeigbo was her literary mother whom he always feels free to simply call Akachi. Mbajiorgu lamented that his Ihiala part of Anambra State was starved of writers as opposed to other sections of the state where one family, for instance, can produce Profs Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo and Stella Okunna, the dynamic sisters who always gave back to their Uga community in Aguata LGA by always leading other professors to organize extra-mural classes for young students. The lionized poet and critic, Prof Chimalum Nwankwo, aka Ndi-nmuo, livened up the gathering with his informed anecdotes, stressing that he was principally a poet. The Managing Director/CEO/Editorin-Chief of Anambra Newspapers and Printing Corporation, publishers of National Light, Ka O Di Taa, and Sportslight, Chuka Nnabuife said that he does not see Prof Akachi-Ezeigbo as a feminist but as a mother so detribalized that she used to be like a mother-of-all during the time he was working as a literary journalist of The Guardian newspaper in Lagos. Prof Akachi Adimora-Ezigbo was full of thanks for all as she later said: “The celebration in Awka at Unizik was excellent. I thank the organisers represented by Dr. Ifeoma Odinye, the Director of Akachi Ezeigbo Prize for Literature, and everyone who was there or contributed to its success. In a special way, I thank the Unizik Vice-Chancellor, Prof Esimone, for his highly esteemed presence together with the Pro-Chancellor & Chairman of Council and other distinguished Members of Unizik Council as well as renowned Professors and Gentlemen of the Press, etc. I am totally humbled by the honour. I am emotionally overwhelmed by the goodwill showered on me through speeches, tributes and actions!” A multiple award-winning mother of books, Akachi Adimora Ezeigbo reigns as the author of The Last of the Strong Ones, House of Symbols, Children of the Eagle, Trafficked, Heart Songs, A Million Bullets and a Rose etc.

Saturday, February 18, 2023

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Price: N250

MISSILE

Sultan to FG “The people are hungry – is there money? Akawi kudi? No cash! People are angry and hungry, let’s see how we can douse the tension” –The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, lamenting the pain in the country, aggravated by Naira scarcity.

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OKEYIKECHUKWU Ganduje’s Livestock Reform Conference EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

ast week, the governor of Kano State took his long-standing and consistent talk about a lasting solution to herder/ farmer conflicts in Nigeria to new heights. His government organized a well-planned and well-executed two-day National Conference on Livestock Reforms, with Prof Attahiru Jega as Chairman. The issues taken up in the various sessions were so detailed, and so comprehensive, that it would require a peculiar type of blindness and unfair analysis not to see the fervent desire for lasting solutions behind the initiative. The frankness of both speakers and commentators was palpable; and it was all focused on solutions – practical, implementable and realistic solutions, that is. This Conference was coming five years after the Governor’s initial Salvo on the subject of livestock reforms. After his previous, repeated, interventions on the matter, he has now taken up the business of driving very elaborate national conversation on how to end farmer/herder conflict in Nigeria. Is it all just a wild fervour for open Advocacy? I think not. Governor Ganduje has successfully executed impressive ranching and related projects in his state. Others, especially his fellow northern Governors with vast lands, should go, see, and emulate, his bold initiatives. They will find a viable, and tested, template for the much-needed economic progress, social harmony and sound community relations that are missing in their domains at the moment. They will find a tried and tested case of sustainable inclusivity. As the Conference was going on last week, I thought back to an article that appeared on this page on may 17, 2021, titled “Northern Governors, Listen to Ganduje, Maisari”, It was said therein that governor Ganduje “first made the call to his fellow northerners, but he was ignored. Then he tried, via Third Parties with media reach, to persuade herders to stop taking their cattle to the Middle Belt and the more southerly parts of the country for grazing. The conversation did not even begin. Then years rolled by.” The article continued thus: “More than four years since Ganduje began his campaign for sanity in livestock management in Nigeria, events are coming to a head. He had explained, back then, that his state had enough room and water resources to carter for the needs of all herders in Nigeria. He repeated this appeal some two years ago, detailing the availability of ideal natural resources for animal husbandry, and giving good reasons why this should be taken advantage of”. The video clips of the governor’s call to all and sundry was trending in the social media for weeks. It was well reported in the ‘regular press as well. But those who should look into, and take decisions on,

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

were caught up in hearsay, unfounded claims and presumptive certainty. It was established at the conference that silo conversations, historical stereotypes, and language-induced stigmatizations have all combined to undermine national discourse in very fundamental ways. It was a rich harvest. It reaffirmed much that should now be taken seriously and resolved, instead of being just talked about. The Conference brought out some point already made by Ganduje, years back point; wherein he “… took great pains to draw national attention to three things, namely: (1) The steady, and frightening, inflow of herders into our country, which he suggested should be taken up at the level of ECOWAS and stopped; (2) The fact that the presumed herders some northern governors are busy defending are also now more of gun smugglers and bandits than herdsmen and (3) The unwisdom of continued movement of cattle from the north southwards, especially because of its Ganduje negative impact on the herds, the herders and farmers; in addition to the fact that such matters were not paying attention. it now posed a major threat to national They had more urgent matters to attend to. security.” These urgent matters revolved around short Also, as observed back then, “The resolute term political conspiracies, procurement deafness of Ganduje’s fellow governors contracts and everything except the things from the north, who now routinely chorus a that matter the most, for them to even questionable defence of their cattle herding remain in office without being shooed “brothers” whenever the latter seem to have out by unrest and insecurity. While they issues with host communities anywhere were thus busy, feigning a plethora of in the country, is baffling at best. These excuses, the roof was caving in on us governors were quick to protest the sacking from all sides. of herders from a government forest reserves That is why it can happen that the in a South Western state, which the latter very same issues governor Ganduje has occupied in defiance of the law. It certainly been harping on were on the table last did not occur to the northern governors, week. He flagged off the event and did while they were defending the deviant not leave after the opening ceremony, no! herders, that they were thereby actually He did not just strut off after the usual supporting criminality. It also did not occur post-opening photographs and tea break, to them that they are also simultaneously as people in government usually do, no! suggesting that Fulani herders are criminals. Instead, the governor sat through the entire Are they? …. To create the impression two-day event. And he was personally that herders, and especially Fulani herders, taking copious notes while it lasted. His are by definition not law abiding is both general aspect, as he hunched over his unfair and unreasonable. It is really sad, jotter was as engaging as it was sobering no doubly tragic, that the very people in its seriousness. elected to defend the people are engaged The overriding air in the conference in a clearly unintended, stigmatization of auditorium was one of commitment to Fulani herders as criminals in Nigeria today.” creating a living, and liveable, space wherein The issues thrown up by last week’s unrealistic demands and expectations, conference included the fact of total especially the unfair stereotyping of various insecurity for all Nigerians, irrespective of sections of the country, are reigned in. location, ethnic roots or religious affiliation. The subject matter of the various plenary Hear this from the article of two years sessions brought out most of the issues ago: “….those who are screaming from that would be critical success factors for the rooftop about decimation of the Fulani anyone who would like to find lasting have forgotten to ask themselves whether solutions to the problems. it is not these same Fulani “brothers” that Much of the points raised at the are wiping out the north, either as bandits, conference have been in the news for a herders or insurgents. This singular fact is long time, though. They have, however, the most compelling reason for us to stop also been so muddled up over time fooling ourselves, across all geopolitical that the extreme subjectivity of most of divides. Let us pause, think and then the concerned parties has made honest recalibrate our actions and choice of words. conversation near-impossible. It is either Why should herders come from all over some are speaking of long past, and often West Africa, wreck whatever they meet in distorted events, or of narratives that the north, as they match southwards, and

still be defended by northern governors? Why? Homes, communities, livelihoods and values have been demolished all over northern Nigeria by the marauding bands. What, for instance, has Bauchi State in particular got to celebrate for its governor’s continued defense of rampaging herders? How has the north, or any Village Head in the north who has had his livestock rustled, gained anything?” The above paragraph puts in bold relief the need for honest conversation, unbiased media reportage and sound policies that would aid our collective survival. It is no longer a matter of taking sides, when we are all in the line of fire. We repeat what was once said here, namely, “Initially, some could venture the view that herders were constrained to defend themselves against armed attacks by cattle rustlers. What now? Is that still the case? …. Impressive grandstanding, with little attention paid to the damage we are doing to national cohesion, is not leadership. It is alright to hold series of security meetings, all gearing towards getting the president to declare a state of emergency on national security. But this is not the solution many people think it is.” Governor Ganduje’s National Conference on Livestock Reforms of last week, which participants said should be the last of such conference, was full of broad strokes and also great details for concrete action. Enough talking, everyone agreed! Away with the illusion that declaring a State of Emergency will make any difference! It is beyond declaring a state of emergency. The declaration of a state of emergency by the president will not end insecurity, or insurgency; or remove the fact that our military and security personnel are already overstretched. Let’s get real! Part of getting real is asking ourselves whether it would be as easy as it is now for herders to freely walk the more southerly parts of the country as they are doing now, once Buhari ceases to be president. Part of getting real is for us to ask ourselves whether it is not time to end the avoidable crisis around farming and livestock business. It does not matter which way things would turn out, in terms of the ability of farmers and herders to coexist. What matters is that they must coexists, as they separate environmental factors from the human factors fueling their subsisting conflict. What matters now is for the nation to pull itself together, call itself to order and work towards better and more sustainable use of its human capital and natural resources than it is doing now. We have ample evidence, and still subsisting proof, of improved yields and milk from less itinerant cattle. The testimonies of largescale entrepreneurs in animal husbandry at the Conference bore out the wisdom of Gnaduje’s long-lasting call for new, more rewarding and more sustainable methods and practices. approach. Again, let us get real!

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