SUNDAY 4TH JUNE 2023

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has disclosed that with the subsidy removal policy now being fully implemented, the volume of petrol consumed daily in Nigeria may drop by 30 per cent.

The country has a history of unreliable fuel consumption data, even as the current figure is estimated to be currently between 66 million litres per day and 70 million litres per day. It is believed that many of the imported product is smuggled out of the country.

Speaking on a live television

programme, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the national oil company, Mallam Mele Kyari, admitted that Nigeria has no accurate data on fuel consumption, adding however, that the country knows the actual volume evacuated from the depots.

“I don't think there is any

credible data on consumption, but there is credible data on evacuation from the depots. They are very distinct. So every truck that leaves the depots in this country is known - the truck number, the driver, and the destination of that product are known.

“We have numbers around this and those numbers are what we assume is our consumption. But we know that this may not be our consumption figure because we know that petroleum products are smuggled across the country,” he stated.

petrol imported into Nigeria is consumed within the country, stressing that the arbitrage situation caused by the subsidy regime was to blame for the anomaly. “We're actually subsidising everybody else in West Africa,” he added.

Kyari admitted that not all the Continued on page 5

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has given his

predecessor, Bello Matawalle, an ultimatum of five days to return vehicles allegedly taken away by officials of his administration.

The governor gave the ultimatum in a statement issued yesterday on his behalf by his spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris.

He gave the details of the alleged missing vehicles, while vowing to recover looted funds and properties of the state

government.

“The mischievous statement is only aimed at distracting us from doing the work that

positively touches the lives of the people. Our time is

NLC Divided as North, South-west Chapters May Shun Planned Strike

Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi

Ezigbo in Abuja and Segun

Awofadeji in Bauchi

APC accuses union of working for Labour Party Atiku knocks Tinubu, says PDP would have provided palliatives first Akume, Gbajabiamila, Hadejia: Profiles

in Leadership...

The planned industrial action scheduled for Wednesday by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has experienced a setback as the union appears divided with the South-west and northern states’ chapters pulling out of the proposed action, THISDAY has learnt.

This is as one of the spokespersons of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bayo Onanuga, has accused the President of NLC, Joe Ajaero, of working for the Labour Party (LP) and attempting to destabilise the newly inaugurated government with the planned strike.

THISDAY gathered last night that following the alleged politicisation of the planned action that was scheduled in protest

Story on page 6

Tinubu Weighs in on N'Assembly Leadership Controversy

Meets APC members-elect today To parley opposition lawmakers-elect Monday Work together as a family, PDP tells members

Deji Elumoye and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

As part of the last-minute efforts to resolve the controversy arising from the zoning of the National Assembly leadership positions by the All Progressives Congress (APC), President Bola Tinubu will today meet with the incoming senators and House of Representatives members elected on the platform of the ruling party.

Tinubu will also hold meetings with Senators-elect and House of

Representatives members-elect from the opposition parties on Monday, in a move to secure their support for the candidates anointed by the APC.

This is as the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Damagum, has called on the members of the party in the National Assembly to work as a family on the issue of the leadership controversy.

The ruling party had in consultation with President

Tinubu, anointed Senators Godswill Akpabio (South-South) and Barau Jibrin (North-west) as its preferred candidates for the positions of the Senate President and Deputy Senate President, respectively.

In the same vein, the party had also endorsed Tajudeen Abbas (North-west) and Benjamin Kalu (South-east) for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, respectively.

But some lawmakers of the ruling party, including former

governors Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State, Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia State, and Senator Osita Izunaso, among others, had expressed their opposition to the zoning arrangement and vowed to pursue their ambitions to contest the various positions.

Yari, in particular, has argued that the zoning arrangement is unfair to the North, insisting that it will deny the region the headship of any of the three arms of government.

On their part, lawmakers from

ZAMFARA GOV GIVES MATAWALLE FIVE-DAY ULTIMATUM TO RETURN MISSING BULLETPROOF CARS

precious and we cannot waste it in engaging or bandying words with a political party that spent four years without a single project beneficial to the people of Zamfara; instead their only achievement is massive looting of the state’s treasury.

“We have the facts and records available that expose Matawalle’s impropriety. Where is the lie?

A contract was awarded by the former governor, for the purchase of vehicles to be distributed to dignitaries and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at the cost of N1,149,800,000.

“The money was meant for the purchase of a Toyota Lexus VIP Bullet Proof 2021 Model;

Toyota Land Cruiser VIP Bullet Proof 2021 Model; Toyota Prado V6 2021 Model; Toyota Prado V4 2021 Model; Peugeot 2021 Model; Toyota Hilux 2021 Model; Toyota Land Cruiser Bullet Proof 2021; and Toyota Lexus 2021 Model,” the statement explained.

The statement also alleged that on the 4th of October 2021 the former governor paid a contractor for the supply of three bulletproof Jeeps at the sum of N484, 512, 500.

According to the statement, another contract for the supply of seven sets of bulletproof Prado Jeeps and Land Cruiser at the sum of N459, 995, 000 was also paid for while the supply of seven Toyota Hilux vehicles at

the sum of N228, 830, 000 was also awarded.

“On the 19th of May 2021, Matawalle paid for the supply of 30 sets of Peugeot 406 cars at the sum of N61,200,000,” the statement added. Also, on December 15, 2021, Matawalle allegedly paid for the supply of one bulletproof Land Cruiser for the sum of N130, 000, 000, the statement said.

Also, on February 26, 2022, Matawalle paid N160,000,000 for the supply of two Land Cruiser Jeeps 2021 model, while the sum of N120,000,000 was also paid for the supply of three vehicles for the office of the deputy governor, according to the statement.

“It is the height of indignity for the Zamfara APC to continue to fizzle at a time when all the above official vehicles were looted by the immediate past government . None of the vehicles are available in the Government House. This is a show of shame, not only to the state chapter of the APC but to anyone justifying the action of Matawalle.

“We have communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his Deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five working days.”

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had said it was probing Matawalle for alleged N70 billion fraud.

NLC DIVIDED AS NORTH, SOUTH-WEST CHAPTERS MAY SHUN PLANNED STRIKE

against the removal of petrol subsidy, the South-west and northern states’ chapters have resolved to back out of the plan.

However, to make the strike effective, NLC has written all its 43 affiliate unions to mobilise for the scheduled industrial action.

However, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has weighed in on the controversy over the removal of subsidy by President Bola Tinubu, saying his party had initiated the removal but would have provided palliatives.

Atiku, who referred to Tinubu’s administration as a "temporary government,” expressed confidence that he would reclaim his "stolen mandate" at the court.

The planned strike by the NLC is in reaction to the removal of the petrol subsidy, which led to a hike in the pump price of petrol. Some of the affiliates of the NLC include the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), among others.

In a letter written to the affiliates, which was signed by the NLC General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, the Congress said: “We bring you greetings from the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress. You will recall that arising from the National Executive Council meeting held on June 2, 2023, it was decided that Congress will embark on a nationwide action and withdrawal of services, against the fraudulent increase in the prices of fuel across the thirty-six states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the FCT.

“Please be informed that the nationwide action will commence on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. To this effect, all national leaders are expected to mobilise their members for the action and ensure full compliance with the directives as services in both the public and private sectors are expected to be fully withdrawn by Wednesday, June 7, 2023. All

Presidents and General Secretaries are expected to help ensure the implementation of the decisions of the National Executive Council,” the NLC explained.

During his inaugural speech at the Eagle Square in Abuja, the President, Bola Tinubu declared that the era of subsidy payment on fuel has ended.

Tinubu had also disclosed that the 2023 budget did not make provision for fuel subsidy as such, further payment is no longer justifiable.

“The fuel subsidy is gone,” Tinubu had declared, adding that his government would instead channel funds into infrastructure and other areas to strengthen the economy.

The presidential pronouncement led to an instant return of fuel queues across the country, with Nigerians lamenting the sharp increase in the price of petrol at the various filling stations.

This development led to the resistance of the organised labour to what the workers described as Tinubu’s unilateral action.

To cushion the attendant hardship, President Tinubu later promised to review the minimum wage to align with the current economic realities of the country.

According to him, the federal and state governments need to take a look at the minimum wage together and also strengthen the source and application of the country’s revenue.

He made this known on Friday while meeting with the members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), who declared support for him on the removal of subsidy.

APC Accuses Union of Working for Labour Party

In his reaction to the threat by the labour unions, one of the spokespersons the APC, Onanuga, has accused the President of NLC, Ajaero, of attempting to destabilise the newly inaugurated government with the planned strike.

Onanuga, who posted a statement on Twitter yesterday, said Ajaero was privy to the fact that the government was going to

remove the subsidy and accused him of playing politics with the decision. He asked Nigerians to ignore Ajaero’s call for a strike.

“The politically-tainted NLC, TUC, and NLC President, Joe Ajaero have asked workers to go on strike next Wednesday over the removal of petrol subsidy, despite being privy to the distressing financial figures, which justified why subsidy ought to have been scrapped a long time ago.

“My advice to the perceptive workers and the Nigerian populace is simply to ignore Ajaero and his ilk. He is playing politics and is actually acting the script of the opposition Labour Party, out to destabilise the young Tinubu’s administration.

“Besides, one wonders whose interest Ajaero is championing, when he did not oppose the position of his Labour Party and presidential candidate, who campaigned with the promise to scrap subsidy from Day One if elected. NLC and TUC leaders knew since last November that the subsidy will be scrapped from July 1 as no provision has been made in the budget for it, beyond this date.

“The federal government, which already commits 96 per cent of its revenue in servicing debt, is not in any position to continue selling subsidised fuel, most of which is smuggled across our borders for criminal and obscenely unpatriotic profit.

“Subsidy of fuel is no longer unsustainable as the federal government is virtually broke. Apart from its N77 trillion debt, it also owes NNPC Limited about N2.4 trillion for past subsidies. The Nigerian people and workers should support the government as it works out new wages and rolls out other interventions, as promised by President Tinubu, to mitigate the effects of the new fuel price.

“Let’s not make ourselves pawns in the hands of the politically biased and tainted NLC and TUC. Ajaero is no longer a labour leader. He is a politician and leader of the Labour Party. He is no more representing all the Nigerian workers,” Onanuga said in a statement posted on Twitter.

the North-central had also rejected the zoning formula because no position was zoned to the area while the party zoned two positions to the North-west.

To ensure that the preferred candidates of the APC do not lose the elections, Tinubu has scheduled to parley the National Assembly members-elect from the ruling party and the opposition parties.

THISDAY gathered that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC led by the National Chairman, Senator Adamu Abdullahi, and other critical stakeholders of the party are also expected to attend today’s meeting, which will be held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Izunaso, who is a strong contender for the position of the Senate President, confirmed today’s proposed meeting in an interview with journalists in Abuja yesterday after a courtesy call on the national leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Izunaso said the meeting with Tinubu would discuss the issue of the presiding officers’ positions in the 10th National Assembly even as he dismissed the zoning arrangement announced by the APC as mere advisory.

He also confirmed the alliance talks between aspirants who were not favoured by the zoning template released by the party.

He said, "I am the next Senate president.

PDP Would Have Provided Palliatives First, Atiku Declares

But speaking in Bauchi State yesterday when he addressed the PDP officials elected in the 2023 general election, Atiku faulted the approach adopted by the Tinubu-led government in the subsidy removal.

“Between 1999 and 2007, the PDP government initiated the petroleum subsidy removal and I chaired the committee. We achieved subsidy removal in two phases but only after providing palliatives to those most affected by the subsidy removal,” he said.

“We have the experience as a party in government. That is what we would have done and not just announced subsidy removal without discussion with the affected sectors of the economy. I think Nigerians should appreciate what they have temporarily lost.”

Atiku, who referred to Tinubu’s

Continued on page 6

That does not mean we are not talking to Senator-elect, Abdulaziz Yari.

"We are consulting as much as he is also doing. We are also talking to other people who are contesting for the Senate Presidency.

"I can assure you that at the end of the day, Osita Izunaso will be the next Senate President.

“Nobody has been chosen yet. Don’t make that mistake. When the party chooses someone, we would know. The party is just calling for a better and wider consultation.

"We are just getting an invitation to meet the party tomorrow (today). There is no zoning template, the party merely advised.

"Aspirants have been visiting the National Chairman of the APC and what has been his disposition to it? In fact, someone was addressed as a speaker and he told them nobody has been made speaker yet. There is no zoning yet."

Speaking earlier during the courtesy visit, Izunaso pledged that the 10th National Assembly under his leadership, would not antagonise the executive arm of government.

He said, "We are going to put

the record straight and educate Nigerians on what constitutes constituency projects and the constituency allowance. All the negative notions about jumbo pay are also not correct.”

The National President of the NUJ, Chief Chris Isiguzo described Izunaso as the best among all the senators vying for the position in terms of competency, experience, capacity, and integrity.

"Izunaso is an outstanding journalist, brilliant lawyer, and a man of integrity and high capacity who would rebrand the National Assembly and give the Legislature and the country a better image," he added.

Tinubu to Parley Opposition Lawmakers Monday

Meanwhile, today’s meeting between Tinubu and the opposition lawmakers is scheduled to be held at the State House, Abuja. THISDAY gathered that part of the agenda is the need to firm up a harmonious relationship between the Executive and Legislature arms of government as well as fine-tune the process for electing the leadership of both Chambers of the National Assembly.

An invitation to the opposition Senators-elect and members-elect indicated that President Tinubu would be meeting with Senators by 3 pm and the members of the House of Representatives by 5 pm.

The invitation, which was sighted by THISDAY, was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the State House, Tijanni Umar, on behalf of the President's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.

The invitation urged the lawmakers to attend and submit their list for security clearance.

Work Together as a Family, PDP Tells Members

In a related development, the acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagum, has called on the members of the party in the National Assembly to work as a family on the issue of the leadership controversy. Addressing the party’s elected officials in a retreat organised in Bauchi yesterday, Damagum said: “I want to reiterate, on the issue of the National Assembly; we have to know we are an opposition.

“In order to remain relevant, we must work together as one family. That’s the only way you’ll be able to ensure that your relevance is being determined.”

NNPC: SUBSIDY REMOVAL TO REDUCE PETROL CONSUMPTION BY 30%

Explaining that even those who secure the Nigerian borders are “not angels,” Kyari argued that there was a huge incentive to smuggle the fuel because the gains are enormous.

Kyari also said that Nigeria’s neighbouring countries can now legitimately import fuel from Nigeria, rather than utilise the smuggling route.

According to him, to take advantage of the situation, Nigeria will now convert smuggling to a legitimate market because the objective is to be the supplier to West Africa and the surroundings.

“In a subsidy regime, in an arbitrage environment, which we have - wherever it is, you cannot eliminate fraud. Because it's not possible.

“What this action of taking subsidy off has done is that it will bring down the evacuation from the depot because even when you round-trip, you go across the border, it is the market price, and therefore there'll be no incentive for that. And I believe that 30

per cent of the volume that we see today will probably vanish,” he added.

Kyari lamented that it has been very difficult, if not practically impossible to transport petroleum products through the pipelines because of the activities of vandals around the country.

He said at one point, the NNPC and partners were losing about 34 per cent of products pumped into the pipelines, a development he said was unsustainable.

On the commencement of incountry refining by the NNPC, Kyari noted that it would only be possible from December, explaining that there were delays in bringing in equipment, which further extended the completion time of the refineries.

He said the plan was to get all the refineries within the country to start working from the first half of next year to complement the Dangote refinery, which will make Nigeria a net exporter of petrol to West African countries.

“It (Port Harcourt refinery) will

come on stream by the end of the year. We had some supply chain issues, which is a global problem and I've explained this over and over.

“There is a crisis in the global marine sector. Getting these things to location is a huge challenge and we have had some delays in the delivery of some of our equipment, but the equipment has arrived, work is in progress, and will deliver on this,” he said.

The GCEO promised that by the end of July, Nigeria would be able to produce about 1.6 million barrels per day and thereafter hit the 1.8 million barrels per day allocated to the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota.

He stated that the NNPC was working on the Atlas Cove facility and was proceeding to get back the line into Mosimi.

Kyari stressed that it had become so bad that in the last 17 years, the NNPC had not been able to pump products from Warri to even Benin, Edo State.

SEEKING MEDIA SUPPORT…

L-R: Senator-elect, Monday Odebholo, President, Nigeria Union

during a visit to the NUJ in Abuja…yesterday

Akume, Gbajabiamila, Hadejia: Profiles in Leadership

Kunle Aderinokun and Gboyega

Akinsanmi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

on Friday began to assemble his team for the implementation of his ‘Renewed Hope’ mandate with the appointment of a former Governor of Benue State, Senator George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF); Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as his Chief of Staff (CoS), and Senator Ibrahim Hadejia as the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS).

GEORGE AKUME

Akume served as the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations between 2019 and 2023.

He has been a leading political figure in the country since the transition to democratic rule in 1999.

Prior to his latest appointment, Akume was elected the Senator representing Benue North-west just after he completed his second term as the governor of the state in 2007. He served in the Senate till 2019.

He first contested senatorial election in 2007 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), though successfully stood for senatorial elections on the platform of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria in 2011 and All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015.

He however lost to Senator Orker-Jev of the PDP in 2019. It was on 23 July 2019 that Buhari nominated him to serve as a minister.

As senator, the new SGF, who was born on December 27, 1953, and hailed from Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, had assumed the position of

the Senate Minority Leader from 2011 to 2015 and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army.

Akume had earlier been elected as the governor of Benue State from 1999 to 2007.

He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Ibadan in 1978 and a Master’s degree in Industrial and Labour Relations from the same university in 1986.

FEMI GBAJABIAMILA

Born on June 25, 1962, Gbajabiamilia had his secondary education at Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos and proceeded to the King Williams College, Isle of Man, the United Kingdom for his Advanced Level.

He studied Law at the University of Lagos, Akoka. He graduated with honours in 1983 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984.

Gbajabiamila started his career as a lawyer at Bentley, Edu and Co. in Lagos, where he distinguished himself with an exemplary discipline and good work ethic. He eventually left the law firm to set up his practice, Femi Gbaja and Co.

In 1998, he returned to school at the John Marshall Law School in Atlanta, Georgia in the United States of America. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from John Marshall and earned for himself a Juris Doctor Degree.

He then went on to write and pass the Georgia Bar exams, after which he set up another thriving law office where he practised until his return to Nigeria.

Gbajabiamila delved into partisan politics and offered himself up for service on the platform of the then Alliance for Democracy (AD) and has thereafter been elected for six consecutive terms to represent the people of

Buhari Submits Assets Declaration Form, Shows Zero Debt

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has submitted his assets declaration forms to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), in line with Chapter 6 of the constitution.

The CCB issued an acknowledgement receipt on May 31, 2023.

In a tweet by former presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu, said the completed declaration shows that his

movable assets did not increase, at home in Nigeria or outside and did not add new bank accounts outside the only one he had in Union Bank, Kaduna.

“He has taken no loans and has no liability.

“The number of animals in his farm recorded a little decrease due to the number he gave out as gifts in the last four years,” he said.

Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos in the National Assembly. With his 20 years experience at the National Assembly, Gbajabiamila is believed to be well-equipped for the task ahead.

The CoS was always on the side of truth and justice, and his views truly reflected the wishes and aspirations of his constituents.

This was especially evident during the “third term debate” when he was Chairman of the 2007 movement in the House, a group primarily credited for ending the “third term agenda” of the then President, Olusegun Obasanjo.

He served as the Minority Whip of the house, and by the end of his second term in office, Gbajabiamila had sponsored the highest number of Bills in the National Assembly.

Gbajabiamila proposed an amendment to the National Honours Act of 1964 to make stringent guidelines for selection of National Award nominees. He

thus became the third and youngest Nigerian to reject National Honours after late Chinua Achebe and Prof. Grace Alele-Williams.

IBRAHIM HASSAN HADEJIA

Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia was born in Kaduna on the 13th of November 1965 and attended sacred heart primary school in Kaduna and Barewa College Zaria after which he gained admission to the school of basic studies at the Ahmadu Bello University for a year-long pre-degree programme leading to a brilliant IJMB qualification.

He immediately gained admission to read law in the same institution in 1983 and graduated with a law degree in 1986 after which he went to the law school Lagos for his Bachelor of Law.

He did his national service in Lagos and worked for a year with Credit and Finance International,

a finance and investment outfit as in-house counsel and company secretary.

Two years later he joined Liberty Merchant Bank Lagos where he worked in credit administration, banking operations and international treasury in that order for almost eight years. He was appointed Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in his home state Jigawa in 1999 and was promoted to Secretary to the State Government two years later.

He was appointed the Deputy Governor just before the elections in 2003 and ran as a deputy governor on the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) ticket a few months later and continued in that position till 2007.

Within this period, he also enrolled in a part time diploma course at Oxford University where he obtained a Diploma in Computing.

From 2007 to 2014, he was

engaged in private business in the insurance, construction and security consultancy sectors. In 2014, he was involved in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a state leader of the ANPP, one of the three parties that formed the alliance and was elected deputy governor of Jigawa State on a joint ticket in 2015 becoming the longest serving Deputy Governor at the expiration of the term in 2019. He ran for the senate and was elected senator representing Jigawa North East Senatorial Zone in April 2019 for a term of four years. Senator Hadejia is committed to an ICT centric agenda and chaired the committee that developed an ICT policy for Jigawa State, the first state to do so in 2001, which saw the formation of the Galaxy broadband hub, in Jigawa, now Galaxy Backbone Limited and the Informatics Institute Kazaure, among others.

Alleged N2bn Misappropriation: I Went to EFCC on My Own Volition, Says Ex-minister, Tallen

Kingsley Nweze in Abuja

The former Minister of Women Affairs under former President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration, Mrs. Pauline Tallen, has said she went to the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of her own volition.

Tallen was grilled by the anti-graft agency on Friday for allegedly misappropriating N2 billion from the African First Lady

Peace Mission Project (AFLPM).

Though details of the allegations against the ex-minister were sketchy, a source familiar with the case informed that it bordered on alleged corrupt enrichment to the tune of N2 billion.

Part of the money was allegedly diverted from the African First Lady Peace Mission Project.

But in a statement yesterday, Tallen said she was neither invited nor arrested but was at the EFCC office on her “own accord” to

“address the very false allegations” made against her.

She, however, did not provide details of the allegation.

She said: “Owing to the respect for my former principal — Former President Muhammadu Buhari and his good office, I did not previously address the open allegation; however, it has now become necessary to do so.

“Firstly, the decent and appropriate action, should this have been a genuine enquiry, would be

to write to the Ministry for Women Affairs, to enquire about any funds sent to the ministry.

“To immediately jump to the open without any proper formal correspondence is highly unprofessional, portrays a lack of respect for the Ministry of Women Affairs and is injurious to my person and character.

“Furthermore, I would like to state that there was no formal invitation from the anti-graft agency neither was I arrested.”

NLC DIVIDED AS NORTH, SOUTH-WEST CHAPTERS MAY SHUN PLANNED STRIKE

administration as a "temporary government,” expressed confidence that he will reclaim his "stolen mandate" at the court.

He charged the members of the National Assembly elected on the PDP’s platform not to be "rubber stamp members of the National Assembly,” adding that “you are there to serve as a formidable opposition to this temporary administration."

He said that: "So, for the time being, they have to prepare to work as an effective, constructive opposition while also preparing for possible roles of the majority party when the cases are resolved. A government is waiting, so to

speak.

“Therefore, you must please remain resolute; do not work in isolation from one another; you are a team and should always work together as a team to achieve meaningful results and also remain connected to your roots, your constituents, and other stakeholders.

“I like the statement of Oyo State governor today here; let us not let our egos blind our vision of what a political party is and what we should be doing for our party’s growth and our country's development,” he added.

New Petrol Price May Push Inflation to 30% in June, Says

Kale

Meanwhile, the Partner and Chief Economist at KPMG Nigeria, Yemi Kale, has said the new prices of petrol may add about six per cent or more to Nigeria’s inflation rate.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and services, climbed to 22.22 per cent in April 2023 — the fourth consecutive surge in Nigeria’s inflation figure since the year started.

Analysing the implications of the new petrol price on the country’s inflation figure, Kale said the inflation rate

may increase to 30 per cent in June 2023.

However, the former statistician-general of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said the CPI for May would not be impacted.

“Using the NBS CPI model+my macro model, the new petrol prices may add about six per cent to CPI in June over whatever is reported in May, holding other things constant,” he tweeted.

“April was 22.22 per cent and May is unknown and won’t be affected. So, June will be somewhere about 30 per cent. Not as bad as I expected.”

of Journalists, Chief Chris Isiguzo, frontline aspirant for Senate Presidency, Senator Osita Izunaso; Senator-elect, Benson Friday Koboweri; and Hon. Ejike Chukwu,

STRENGTHENING COLLABORATION…

L-R:

PDP Asks Akeredolu to Resign over Alleged Ill-health

Reports on Gov’s incapacitation, false says state govt

Fidelis David in Akure

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State yesterday asked Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to resign if he could no longer perform his functions. But in a swift reaction, the state government urged the people of the state to ignore any rumour about the governor’s incapacitation or death, adding that the governor

is very much alive. There has been tension in the state about the whereabouts of the governor.

The PDP warned that the state should not be grounded beyond its present state and cautioned politicians against playing politics with the health of the governor.

The Ondo PDP said the handlers of Akeredolu have not released any information as to his whereabouts.

A spokesman for the Ondo PDP, Kennedy Peretei, said it was a great disservice to keep mum over the governor’s health status and his whereabouts.

He said: “The PDP Ondo State chapter demands that those hiding the governor should tell the people where he is to save the state from speculation.”

The main opposition party in the state recalled that when the

late President Umaru Yar’Adua was incapacitated due to health in 2010, Akeredolu was one of the most vociferous voices, calling for his resignation and allowing the then vice president to take over. It added that if Akeredolu can no longer discharge his official responsibilities, the most reasonable thing to do is to hand over to the Deputy Governor as required by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal

Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

“Our party joins millions of Ondo State people to pray for Akeredolu’s quick recovery, but nobody should play politics with his health. Nobody should ground the state beyond its present state. Let Akeredolu resign if he is no longer fit to be governor.”

He said: “Since an online medium reported that the governor is bedridden and incapacitated, Akeredolu’s handlers responded

Kano Gov Demolishes Structures on Govt Land Sold by Ganduje

Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, popularly known as Abba Gida-Gida, yesterday commenced the demolition of buildings on government lands sold by the immediate past administration of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.

The structures were believed to be illegally erected on properties belonging to the state government.

THISDAY gathered that on late Friday night, a task force set up by the governor began the demolition of structures built inside the Kano Race Course (Filin Sukuwa).

The new Kano governor, Abba Yusuf, was present during the demolition.

The governor was led to the demolition exercise by the police commissioner, Muhammed Gumel.

The governor had also on Friday

directed “that all land developers at the Hajj Camp stop immediately.”

He said this during a visit to the Kano State Pilgrims Camp to see its condition.

“I’m appalled that the facility that was meant to serve as a home away from home for intending pilgrims from Kano State and beyond has been debased by the immediate past administration, with many plots of land there sold to their

cronies,” he said.

Recall that Abba Gida-Gida had in his inaugural speech last Monday gave a marching order to security agencies in the state to immediately take over all public properties sold by Ganduje’s administration.

“I am announcing, today, that all these public places and assets that were immorally plundered and sold by the Ganduje’s administration should be taken over by law

Yahaya Bello, SDP Guber Candidate in Verbal War over Attack by Gunmen

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the state, Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka yesterday engaged in a war of words over an alleged attack by gunmen.

While the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo said in a statement that the governor escaped death when his convoy was attacked by gunmen, the Media Director of the SDP Campaign, Farouk Adejoh, said it was the governor who ordered an attack on the governorship candidate of SDP.

According to a statement issued by Fanwo, the incident, which occurred near the Naval Base, a few kilometres from Lokoja at about 12.30 pm, left many people injured.

Fanwo noted that the convoy alleged to be that of Ajaka, blocked the road while armed thugs started shooting sporadically at the convoy of the governor.

The statement reads: “A Tundra branded with the logo of the SDP and with SDP flags also blocked the governor’s vehicle and occupants of the SDP-branded Tundra were armed with rifles and shotguns. The governor left the scene unscathed and there is no cause for panic as the governor is in high spirits.

“Some security aides and other aides attached to the governor sustained some degree of injuries and have been rushed to medical facilities for medical attention.

“We urge the people of Kogi State to remain calm as security agents are in full control to ensure the arrest of the hoodlums behind the attack. The State Government will ensure that law and order are maintained as the attackers will be brought to justice.

“The governor has warned that no APC member should be involved in any reprisal attack as insecurity from any quarter will be met with stiff penalties” the statement concluded on the gunmen attack on Governor Yahaya Bello.

But in a swift reaction, the SDP Campaign Media director, Adejoh alleged that it was the governor who ordered an attack on the SDP guber candidate.

In a statement obtained by THISDAY, Adejoh said: “The candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka this afternoon luckily escaped assassination when his motorcade was attacked by gunmen personally led by the Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Yahaya Bello.

“Alhaji Ajaka and some vehicles accompanying him were approaching Lokoja at the vicinity of the ram market at about 13:00 pm when two power bikes and Toyota Hilux overtook his car and forced it to a stop.

“This assault was heralded by a Mercedes Benz Limousine with Bello’s official crest accompanied by an open pick- loaded with masked and hooded men bearing AK-47 Assault Rifles.

“The men jumped down and began shooting at Ajaka’s

car and all other cars in the motorcade. They shot for over five minutes at Ajaka’s bulletproof car, unprovoked.

“All this while Bello’s car was parked a few meters in front and was used to barricade the road while the gunmen had a field day.

“When they ceased, Ajaka’s car, a Lexus SUV though bulletproof, was damaged and demobilised.”

According to Adejoh, the SDP candidate who was on his way to keep an appointment with the Mai Geri, a first-class traditional ruler of Lokoja and the Attah Igala in Idah decided to abort the journey and return to Abuja after conferring with the Commander of the Lokoja Naval Base.

“This again is another low score by Mr. Yahaya Bello in the exercise of crude power and brute force. Bello is on record to have unleashed guns and gunmen on several citizens in the course of his eight years of draconian rule. Several persons have been killed by his hoodlums during electioneering while others are missing.”

enforcement agencies, led by the police, the DSS, Civil Defence, and Hisbah pending the final decision of the government.

"These places are meant for public utilisation, it is therefore, disheartening to witness the incessant destruction and conversion of public places that are used to render social services by unpatriotic citizens. We shall bring an end to land grabbing and indiscriminate erection of illegal structures in the state,” he said.

Some of the properties the governor was referring to include “lands in and around schools, religious and cultural sites, hospitals and clinics, graveyards, and green areas, and along the city wall of Kano”, as well as other landed properties and assets belonging to Kano State within and outside the state to their cronies and agents.”

He announced that a judicial commission of inquiry would be empaneled in the coming days “to ensure that all perpetrators and those that aided and abetted them are brought to justice.”

by fuelling public anxiety and suspicion, instead of telling the state, where exactly he is, or getting him to address Ondo State, from wherever he is on planet earth.

“When Akeredolu did not return to his duty post after his celebrated annual leave in March this year, tongues started wagging. At the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Akeredolu was conspicuously absent.

“The deafening silence from government information machinery suddenly saturated social media space with old videos of Akeredolu dancing and singing praises.”

However, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, said though the governor has been indisposed, he has been attending to state matters and delegating functions to functionaries of the government, when necessary.”

To respond to the PDP, a video was released by the state government showing the governor watching the Manchester United match.

She said the governor has been attending to state matters and delegating functions to functionaries of the government, when necessary.

He said: “We have been inundated with calls and messages concerning the state of health of the Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), CON. We had chosen to ignore this wicked fabrication until it appeared that certain persons seek to draw political mileage from the disinformation.

“We enjoin the members of the public to ignore the rumour. Aketi is very much alive.”

Bauchi Gov Emerges New Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Governor Bala Mohammed has emerged as the new Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum.

Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, announced this yesterday after a retreat for elected PDP governors held in Bauchi.

Mohammed succeeded the former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, who is now a senator-elect.

Analysts had expected that

the Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki, would emerge as the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, being the oldest governor in his sixth year in office.

But PDP sources disclosed that what counted against him was that he came from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to complete his second term in office.

Mohammed was a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2010 to 2015 and later elected governor of Bauchi State in 2019 and re-elected for a second term in 2023.

Port Harcourt Lawyer, Mr. Henry Odili; former Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Rose Abiri; Chairman of Body of Benchers, Justice Mary Peter-Odili (rtd); Chairman of Council of Legal Education, Chief Emeka Ngige (SAN) and Head, Graham Douglas Campus of Nigerian Law School, Mr. Chinonso Mmuozoba, at the inauguration of PAMO University Hospital in Port Harcourt…recently

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Optimum Petroleum Clears Air on OPL 310

Says Afren, Lekoil failed to obtain consent before transfer of shares

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Optimum Petroleum Development Company Limited (OPDCL) at the weekend cleared the air on its dispute with Afren Investment Oil and Gas Nigeria Limited, and Lekoil 310 Limited, insisting that the companies failed to obtain its consent and the consent of the Minister of Petroleum before the purported transfer of shares to Lekoil and 22.86 per cent participating interest in OPL 310.

In the rejoinder sighted by THISDAY, Optimum pointed out that on March 28, 2019, the Federal High Court, Lagos Division, presided over by Justice M.S. Hassan, delivered judgment in favour of the company and the petroleum minister in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/482/18.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of Optimum, Alhaji Ibrahim Bunu, the company disclosed that the court in its judgment dismissed the suit as lacking in merit when it found that Lekoil had not acquired the shares of Afren and by that, interest in Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 310 as its purported acquisition was inchoate and invalid.

It added that by the judgment, the consent of the petroleum minister and the consent of Optimum to the transfer of shares of Afren to Lekoil and indirectly the 22.86 per cent interest in OPL 310 could not be obtained in default.

Besides, it stated that by the judgment of the Federal High Court, Afren and Lekoil failed to obtain the consent of Optimum and the petroleum minister before the

purported transfer of the shares of Afren to Lekoil.

“Lekoil and Afren appealed this judgment to the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division but later withdrew the appeal by a Notice of Withdrawal of Appeal filed on 16th May 2019 at the Court of Appeal thereby confirming the judgment as final, valid, subsisting, and binding".

“Optimum notes with great concern some recent publications purportedly issued by Afren titled: “Notice of caution to all persons dealing or considering dealing with the 22.86 per cent participating interest held by Afren Investment Oil and Gas Nigeria Limited in OPL 310 pursuant to consent by the Minister of Petroleum Resources in accordance with Nigerian Petroleum Law” which were published in the Punch Newspapers on 8th May 2023, THISDAY Newspapers on 10th May 2023 and Energy Times Newspaper on 29th May to 4th June 2023, among other newspaper and online publications.

“Aside from the fact that no name or position in Afren was indicated as the author of the said publications on behalf of Afren, the said publications concealed or otherwise misrepresented material facts concerning the proceedings before the court and the subsistence of an ex parte order of injunction granted by the court on 30th March 2023 in another suit initiated by the same plaintiffs after the said final judgment of the same court on 28th March 2019, to wit: Suit No. FHC/L/CS/563/2023 – Afren & Lekoil v. Optimum,” the statement explained.

Optimum said it was constrained to release the rejoinder to set the records straight and protect the integrity of the court and the proceedings before the court and for the benefit of the investing public, third parties, and the world at large.

Optimum noted that the said publications concealed the fact that after the company was served with the said ex parte order of injunction on April 6, 2023, Optimum filed and served a motion on notice to discharge the said ex parte order of injunction on April 17, 2023, and the said motion on notice was not heard or argued in court within 14 days of filing it.

“Therefore, in line with the provisions of order 26 rule 10(1)(a) and (3) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019, the

said Ex parte Order of injunction automatically expired or lapsed by operation of law within 14 days of the filing of the Motion on Notice to Discharge the Ex parte Order, that is, 2nd May 2023,” it argued.

The company added that the Order 26 Rule 10(1)(a) and (3) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019 provided that an ex parte order shall not last for more than 14 days after the person affected by the order has applied for it to be discharged.

In addition, it said the situation can only take place where a motion to discharge the Ex parte Order is not heard or argued within 14 days of its being filed, the Ex parte order shall lapse.

Optimum contended that this position of the law has been

settled in a plethora of cases by the Supreme Court such as the case of Brittania-U (Nigeria) Ltd v. Seplat Petroleum Development Company Ltd (2016) 4 NWLR (Pt. 1503) 541.

“In this regard therefore, the said publications in the Newspapers on 8th, 10th, 29th May, and 4th June 2023 respectively are false, malicious, offensive, a clear misrepresentation of facts, and an affront to the integrity of the Court when they state that the Ex parte Order of Injunction made on 30th March 2023 by the Court is still subsisting and effective as at the date the publications were made.

“Optimum reserves its right to seek appropriate legal remedies and urges the investing public and third parties to disregard those

false, offensive, malicious, and/ or other similar publications.

“Optimum uses this opportunity to assure the investing public, third parties, and the world at large that Optimum is vigorously contesting and challenging Suit No. FHC/L/ CS/563/2023 which raises issues that are the same or similar to issues that were determined by the final, valid, and subsisting judgment of the Court in Suit No. FHC/L/ CS/482/18.

“The only significant difference is that Suit No. FHC/L/CS/482/18 was before a different Judge.

“Be that as it may, in deference to the integrity of the court, Optimum will refrain from delving into issues or taking steps concerning issues that are presently subjudice in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/563/2023,” it noted.

Again, Gunmen Kill over 25 in Fresh Attack on Benue Communities

At least 25 persons were yesterday killed when gunmen attacked Imande Mbakange and other neighbouring communities in Mbacher Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attackers, who were reported to have razed many houses and farmlands in the affected communities, also inflicted injuries on many survivors of the attack.

It was gathered from a source in the area that the gunmen invaded the communities at about 4 a.m. when the people were still in bed, shooting repeatedly to wake the people from sleep.

He said: “The gunshots woke

the people from sleep and as they made efforts to flee for their lives, anyone they caught up with was killed.

“As they killed the people, they also set their houses and nearby farmland on fire. As we speak the place is like a war zone. The communities have been deserted and residents of neighbouring communities are also fleeing for fear of being attacked.”

Confirming the development, the Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Mr. Alfred Atera, who condemned the attack appealed to security agencies to intensify patrols in the communities to end the carnage.

The chairman in a statement by his media aide, Mr. Tsar Tartor, said:

“In the early hours of Saturday there was an attack on Imande Mbakange community and other neighbouring communities in Mbacher Council Ward by unknown gunmen which claimed at least 25 lives and left several others injured and houses burnt with properties worth millions.

“The chairman describes the senseless killings by the unknown gunmen as inhumane and barbaric and calls on all security formations to double their efforts in combating the renewed attacks as a matter of urgency. The chairman calls on

security operatives to intensify surveillance in the areas prone to attacks to avert further breakdown of law within the local government.

“The chairman while expressing his profound sympathy to families of the victims, promises to continue to support and implement every lawful means in a bid to permanently end the senseless killings of innocent people of Katsina-Ala Local Government and all her inhabitants.”

Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent, SP, Catherine Anene, confirmed the attack but said she was yet to receive full details of the incident.

Unity Schools: FG Bans Underage Candidates from Sitting for Exams

72,821 candidates write exam nationwide

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The federal government has banned underage children from participating in the National Common Entrance Examination for admission into the Unity Schools across the country.

It has accordingly directed the National Examinations Council (NECO) to put strict measures in place to prevent underage persons from registering for the examination, including making birth certificates compulsory as a registration requirement.

Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. David

Andrew Adejo, gave the directive yesterday in Abuja while monitoring the conduct of the 2023 Common Entrance Examination into the 110 Federal Government Colleges across the federation.

A total of 72,821 candidates sat for the examination yesterday nationwide.

Adejo noted that to get into secondary school, a candidate should be at least 12 years, adding that one could be eleven plus during the examination, and by September, such a person would have attained the age of 12 years.

The Permanent Secretary after monitoring the exercise at the Federal

Government Girls College, Bwari, and Government Day Secondary School, Bwari, said he was unhappy to see many underage persons taking the examination.

He insisted that less than eleven years was unacceptable, disclosing that Airforce School, among others, does not accept candidates less than 12 years for admission into their schools.

Adejo said: "This year, I have advice for parents and I beg you; take this advice to any single home you know. We are killing our children by allowing underage children to write the Common Entrance Examination.

"I saw children that I know that

are not up to 10, and three of them accepted that they are nine years old. We are doing many things; one, we are teaching the children the wrong values. Education is not about passing exams. Education is teaching, learning, and character formation "I beg the parents; let these children do the exams when they should. We don't get value by pushing our children too far. Most of the time if a child starts too early, he or she will have problems later in life.

"Education is designed in such a way that at any particular stage in life, there are messages your brain can take and understand and be able to

use. We are moving from education that is reliant on reading textbooks and passing exams.

"We are getting to a stage where education is what you can use your knowledge to do for society. You put a small child to go through all the rigours, and by the time he finishes secondary, getting to university becomes a problem. I had that experience with a friend. To date, that friend did not get into a university, simply because he was put into school earlier than the age that he was supposed to be put into school.

"Let our children get to an appropriate age before writing this

exam and we are going to make sure NECO put in place appropriate checks. We didn't want to get to where we will say bring a birth certificate but that is the stage we are going to now. In registering we also upload the child's birth certificate, so that at our end, we can cut some of these things," he said.

The Permanent Secretary also noted that the efforts of the federal government and other stakeholders in encouraging girls' education are yielding fruit, saying the number of girls that registered for the Common Entrance Examination this year is 38,000 far above the previous years.

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Katsina to Shut Banks, Others over Unremitted Tax

Francis Saudauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Revenue Services (KRS) has given banks and other agencies in the state a two-week ultimatum to remit tax collected on behalf of the state government or face the wrath of the law.

The Executive Director of

Katsina Revenue Services (KRS), Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed, in the company of his team, disclosed this to journalists when they visited the defaulters in their offices within the state capital.

Sirajo, who said the accumulated debt is over N1 billion, noted that some of the defaulters are owing

I Have Zero Tolerance for Sectionalism, Nepotism, Says Oborevwori

Omon-Julius OnabuinAsaba

Delta State Governor, Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori has said that his administration has zero tolerance for sectionalism and nepotism, noting that he was an unrepentant believer in the unity of the state.

Speaking at Asaba while swearingin Dr Kingsley Emu as Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo as Senior Political Adviser, Oborevwori said his administration would be faithful in implementing its M.O.R.E Agenda.

Congratulating the appointees on their appointments, Oborevwori said: “Let me sound it loud and clear that this administration has zero tolerance for sectionalism or nepotism. I am an unrepentant believer in the unity of Delta State.

“Therefore, both of you must always strive for unity by ensuring that there is fairness,

equity, and justice in all your actions and utterances.

“This administration is set to build on the legacies of the previous government and break new grounds in infrastructure renewal, human capital development, and social investment programmes.

In this regard, Dr. Emu’s broad experience in government will be very useful in the implementation of our MORE agenda.

“He has a firm grasp of our policy direction and therefore, is in a position to properly integrate it into the operations and activities of the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

“A major requirement for success in this office is the ability to marry policy and politics. Policy generally points the direction of the government but good political skills enable their seamless execution.

FCTA Demolishes UTC Shopping Complex

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Joint Task Force of Federal Capital Territory Administration has demolished the UTC Shopping Complex at Garki, Area 10, Abuja.

The demolition of the 30-yearold structure that was carried out in the early hours of Saturday caught most of the shop-owners unaware with many shedding tears and clamping their heads as a result of the exercise.

The task force barricaded the area and used tear gas to ward off any resistance from a pocket of shop owners who were at the scene at the time of the demolition.

Over 480 shops were de-

molished when the task force stormed the area and prevented shop-owners from salvaging valuable items from their shops before the demolition began.

Early this year, FCTA served notice of demolition to the shop owners, but the owners contested the move and instantly rejected the offer of alternative shopping complex by instituting court action against the administration.

“They asked us to relocate to the other side, and that place they are trying to take us to, they have not done anything. No lights, no proper arrangements for people to move in there. People have already paid.

the state about N500 million.

The KRS team placed notices of non-compliance at strategic locations within the premises of the defaulters to draw the attention of the general public to the development.

“These agencies and organisations we visited are those that we have liabilities with. This is just a warning. We will still come back and enforce the law fully for recovery if within the time given, they do not respond and we did not see a payment

from them.

“They have deducted government money and have not remitted it to the government. We have been on this issue for quite some time now. We have met and sat with them but they have refused to come up with their payments.

“So, based on the provisions of the law; we are telling them and telling the public that these organisations are non-tax compli-

ance and so they should avoid transacting with them.

“In your interest, it is better you don’t deal with them. We are giving them two weeks within which to come forward and settle their outstanding liabilities, failure of which will result in recovery options without further recourse to these organisations.”

“We have quite a lot of options given by the law. We may choose to garnish or freeze their account

or take over their accounts or lock up the premises until we get our payment. We have quite some options.

“So, we are hoping that this warning we have served should be enough. We hope they come around tomorrow or next to settle. So that we can come and remove the notices and inform the public that they can confidently resume transacting business with them,” Sirajo said.

IMN Asks Tinubu to Release El-Zakzaky, Demands Travel Ban Removal

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) yesterday gave at least six demands from President Bola Tinubu.

A senior member of IMN, Prof. Shehu Maigandi revealed the demands during a news conference in Abuja.

At the conference, the movement urged President Tinubu to order

the removal of a travel ban placed on their leader, Sheik Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, and his wife, Zeenah, by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The briefing was titled: “Demand for the Release of our Detained Brothers and the Travel Documents of Our Revered Leader, Sheikh Ibraheem Ya’qoub El-Zakzaky and his Wife.”

He said the release of the

couple’s travel documents is necessary for them to attend to their deteriorating health condition abroad.

Maigandi alleged that after the judgement of the Kaduna State High Court that discharged and acquitted El-Zakzaky and his wife from all the allegations levelled against them.

He explained that the Buhari regime decided “to frustrate the court

judgement and hinder the retrieval of their travel documents by directing the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and Department of State Services (DSS) to continue to hold onto the couple’s travel documents.

He also alleged that Buhari directed the Nigeria Immigration Service “not to issue another international passport to the couple. In view of the foregoing, we therefore demand as follows:

A’Ibom Court Sentences Three Female Kidnappers to Death

Bassey Okon in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo has sentenced to death three female kidnappers for abducting three children in Uyo and selling them off in Aba, Abia State for N1.1 million.

The convicts – one Enobong Nsikak Sunday, 38; Getrude Thompson Akpan, 48 and Mary Okon James, 49 years old, were sentenced to death by Justice Gabriel Ette after finding them guilty of the offence of conspiracy

and kidnapping which is punishable by death under Section 1 of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Security and Enforcement Law, 2009.

Nsikak Sunday, a mother of two who hails from Atiamkpat in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, was found guilty of kidnapping a girl she met at a vigil in Ifa Atai, Uyo, “looking poor and hungry.”

Sending confessed to have trailed the mother and the child to their house in Ifa Atai from where she deceived the mother of the need to take the child to a hospital for

treatment.

On the way, she said she stopped and gave the mother N5,000 to buy foodstuffs at the nearby Transformer Junction Market on Abak Road, Uyo, but she refused.

Like an eagle on the prowl, the convict said she returned to the woman’s house in Ifa Atai, after the first failed attempt, where she successfully kidnapped the unsuspecting child.

The second convict, Getrude Akpan, a native of Ikot Eyo in Nsit Ubium Local Government

Area told the court that she made a profit of N500,000 per child she kidnaps, and N200,000 for those brought to her for sale.

Akpan was found guilty of kidnapping two children, aged two years and 10 months whom she kidnapped on December 16, 2018 at Abak Road, Uyo, after deceiving their mother that the wife of the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel was empowering the poor and that she was willing take her to the First Lady for help.

Kano Demolishes Buildings Erected on Govt Land Sold by Ganduje

Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano

Kano State Governor, Mr. Abba Yusuf has directed the immediate demolition of Illegal structures erected within some identified public places in the state. Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf commenced the demolition of buildings on government land sold by the immediate past administration of Abdullahi Ganduje. The demolished property, a

three-storey building with 90 shops, is located on a race course at the Nasarawa GRA.

The new Kano governor, Abba Yusuf, was present during the demolition.

The governor was led to the demolition exercise by the police commissioner, Muhammed Gumel.

Yusuf had promised to demolish structures erected on government land sold by the Ganduje administration. THISDAY could

not establish the owner of the property and whether or not it was acquired properly.

The demolished shops are said to be an extension of the race course field. Saturday’s exercise is the first demolition exercise carried out by the governor who was sworn in on Monday.

As of the time of filing this report, the government was yet to officially speak on the matter.

Yusuf noted that all the struc-

tures erected in schools, mosques, playgrounds, graveyards, markets and hospitals are to be demolished to ensure strict adherence to the urban planning, beautification and safety of people.

He said: “These places are meant for public utilisation, it is therefore, disheartening to witness the incessant destruction and conversion of public places that are used to render social services by unpatriotic citizens.

L-R: Senior Country Director, United States-Nigeria Council, Kelechi Ekugo; Partner, People Capacity Management, Modupe Olundegun; Chief Executive Officer, Andovis Consulting, Kola Andoyi; Managing Partner, PCM, Biola Ojo; and Chief Operating Officer, Termii, Atinuke Idowu, at the fifth People Capacity Management anniversary, the launch of PCM Business Academy and the maiden edition of the Africa TechEnt 1.0 Conference in Lagos…recently ABAYOMI AKINYELE

As Nigerians Grapple with the Pains of Fuel Subsidy Removal

For obvious reasons, the pomp and ceremony that heralded the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu last Monday soon gave way to bewilderment, anger, and frustration by the Nigerian public who began to feel the full weight of the sudden commencement of the fuel subsidy removal, as announced by the president.

Tinubu had in his inaugural address at the Eagle noting that the 2023 Appropriation Act did not provide for petrol subsidy beyond June; the end of the 18-month extension period approved by the Muhammadu Buhari administration for the discontinuance of the subsidy regime.

New Economic Agenda

and bus stops in major towns and cities appear to have dwarfed discussions over other key economic agenda unveiled by the new president at his inauguration.

This is because, apart from the issue of subsidy removal, Tinubu vowed to tackle poverty and create jobs in bold economic agenda, saying his administration will prioritise job creation, food security, and the eradication of extreme poverty as key aspects of its economic development model.

“We shall remodel our economy to bring about growth and development through job creation, food security, and an end to extreme poverty.

“In our administration, Women and youth will feature prominently.

“Our government will continue to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture to discourage corruption while corruption agencies,” Tinubu said.

He also declared his government’s decision to unify the exchange rate, replacing the previous multiple exchange rate regime implemented during the administration of former President Buhari by the central bank. emphasised the need to redirect funds from arbitrage toward meaningful investments. Additionally, he called for a reduction in interest rates, describing the current rates as detrimental to both the people and businesses in Nigeria.

Return of Fuel Crisis

However, signs that the president’s narrative on fuel subsidy removal did not sit down well among the people began to manifest a few hours after the inauguration. There was a spontaneous increase in the prices of petrol which ballooned from N195 to as high as N557, while many marketers chose to hoard the product for fear of reprisals from customers.

On fuel subsidy removal, analysts observed that what fuelled the state of confusion, anger, and hopelessness among the people was the lack of clarity on the government’s palliative plans, lack of consultation with the organised labour, and the spontaneity of the pricing templates of fuel marketers, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL).

As Nigerians continued to keep vigil at fuel stations in endless queues, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, on Wednesday adjusted the pump price of petrol by nearly 200 per cent, from N195 per litre to between N488 and N557 nationwide.

New Price Regime

NNPC said it had been funding subsidies to the tune of N400 N2.8 trillion spent on petrol subsidy.

Kyari lamented that since the provision of the N6 trillion in 2022, any payment whatsoever from the federation. He said NNPC the new rates, petrol prices were adjusted upward from between N189 to N194 per litre to N537 in Abuja and other North-central states.

In Lagos and other South-west states, a litre of petrol now sells for between N488 and N500 per litre. In the South-east, the price will range from N515 to N520, while in the North-west, the price of the product was raised to between N540 and N545.

In the North-east, it moved from N199 to between N550 and N557 per litre. For the South-south, petrol is now from N511 to N515 per litre.

On his part, the Executive Secretary of MOMAN, Mr. Clement Isong, explained that with the new petrol marketing regime, MOMAN members would be selling their products based on their cost of purchase. He urged Nigerians to embrace the new petrol marketing regime and reduce their fuel consumption, saying the government should put in place appropriate palliatives

However, analysts warned that it would be erroneous to expect fuel prices to hover around N500 based on the NNPCL’s template. According to a Lagos-based fuel marketer, Nigerians should expect a litre of fuel to be around N600 by the time major and independent fuel marketers are ready with their price templates.

Organised Labour Fumes

In the ensuing confusion and anger, the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress were invited for a meeting by the representatives of the federal government on Wednesday. However, the meeting ended in a deadlock with the labour leaders insisting on a return to the statusquo before a meaningful dialogue could begin.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, in a statement, said the union was worried that Tinubu, despite the ongoing meetings of stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to try to manage the unilateral decision by the government, went ahead to announce a new regime of prices.

He described it as an “ambush”, stating that it runs against the spirit and principles of social dialogue, which remains the best platform available for the resolution of all the issues in the petroleum downstream sector.

One of the arguments put forward by the NLC President was what happens to the budget provision made for fuel subsidy television channels during the week also raised the point of the budgetary allocations for subsidy till June ending, wondering why the NNPC could at the middle of the road issue a new pricing template as if the subsidy payment ended in May.

The TUC in a statement by its President and Secretary General, Festus Osifo and Nuhu Toro, respectively, warned that it is a joke taken too far, calling on the new administration to give room for proper dialogue with all the stakeholders.

“Accordingly, we hereby demand that President Tinubu should tarry awhile to give room for robust dialogue and consultation and stakeholders engagement just as he opined in his speech, until all issues and questions; and there is a host of them, are amicably considered and resolved. Nigerian Workers and indeed governments,” the statement said.

Employers Fret

In the same vein, the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has called on the federal government to approach the removal of petrol subsidy strategically to avoid socio-economic indicators like employment, and poverty per capita income, among others.

A statement issued by the Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, warned that if the subsidy withdrawal was not well managed, it could lead to an increase in the prices power.

Oyerinde stated, “While it is desirable to remove the fuelruption, the removal must be systematically and strategically done in order not to further impoverish and worsen the already bad socio-economic indicators, such as employment, poverty per capita income, and many more.

NEITI Vindicated

Despite the brewing protest over the removal of subsidy members of the economic community have continued to pour in commendations for the new administration for bracing the odds to announce the end of a policy that successive administrations could not stop.

For instance, the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) described the move as a positive development and recommendations contained in the NEITI reports.

A statement, signed by Ms Obiageli Onuorah, the Deputy Director/Head of Communications and Stakeholders Management, said a bold step was required to block leakages, grow revenues and advance the ongoing reforms in the oil, gas, and mining industries.

Onuorah recalled that its recommendations for the removal of fuel subsidies have remained a persistent request since burden that the subsidy regime imposed on the growth of the Nigerian economy over the years.

The Puzzle

Analysts are of the view that the new administration will be able to win the support of the Nigerian people if it can come out clean and explain if there were provisions for fuel subsidy in May and June 2023 as indicated by the immediatepending confrontation with labour and the attendant threats to the economy, which the Tinubu administration promised to turn around.

Last week, the administration of President Bola Tinubu had a foretaste of Nigerians’ unsparing policy is, with the groundswell of criticisms and anger over the sudden withdrawal of fuel subsidy and the attendant fuel crisis, writes Festus Akanbi

The return of fuel queues ...as Nigerians spend endless hours waiting for fuel

Any Future for National Carrier, Nigeria Air?

The excitement over the bid to actualise the plan for the establishment of the Nigerian National carrier appears to be downplayed by the controversy trailing its conception, writes Chinedu

any Nigerians were surprised when the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi without actualising the establishment of a national carrier, which was one of the major programmes which the Muhammadu Buhari administration vowed it would accomplish in the aviation industry. Even former President Buhari himself reiterated in a media forum that he would establish a national airline, insisting that Nigeria deserved one and recalled nostalgically how Nigeria had Nigeria Airways Limited and a national shipping line.

So when on May 26, 2023, Ethiopian Airlines registered aircraft, Boeing B737-800 was disNnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja and it vanished hours later, many Nigerians described as the greatest scam in the history of the Nigerian aviation industry.

Lack of transparency

Industry insiders and members of Airline what prompted AON to go to court to stop of sincerity in the plan to establish the airline. issue of establishing a national carrier was raised, many who lauded the plan always emphasised on the transparent process.

The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) seemed to have sincerely worked with the then Minister of Aviation towards the establishment of a national carrier, as Sirika continued to assure Nigerians. In October 2020, Sirika, while defending the Ministry of Aviation 2021 budget reiterated that assurance when he said, “This government right from inception in 2015, has been planning and strategising on how to resuscitate a national carrier for Nigeria as far as global air transportation is concerned, the plan going by what is on the ground now, will be actualised next year through the PPP arrangement.”

Eze

MSo, the former minister assured Nigerians then that in 2021 the national carrier project would be established.

A Member of AON and President/CEO of Top Brass Aviation Limited, Captain Roland Iyayi, said in the interview he granted ARISE NEWS Channel that the process for the establishment of the national carrier was not transparent. “Essentially what we have gone to court to say is that the entire process, the bidding, the selection and whatever it is we have today was not transparent. Again, we went on to say that most of the things that have been alluded to, we actually have proof to indicate that these are things that run counter to the provisions of the ICRC law for the country. And we have asked the court to simply interpret our position and see if indeed we are correct. If we are correct, it means the entire process is wrong. Now, the minister cent of this entity will be held by the Nigerian Sovereign Wealth Fund. They came out within minutes and said they are not part of it. Then again, the minister said 46 per cent will be held by Nigerian institutional investors. So far, we have MRS, SAHCO and the supposed Nigerian institutional investors.

“Meanwhile, SAHCO is a company under the group Sifax. Sifax actually put in a bid for the concession of Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and they never wanted to be part of Nigeria Air. But for whatever reason, it was put as a member of that institutional investor team and they know very little about it. And that is the much we have found out so if Sifax is not part of this 46%, and we have not heard from MRS, who exactly is holding those shares? And if they are being held, is it by proxy and for whom? So these are we presented to the court for interpretation. Ministry, their defence, indeed what they said is that this process is a PPP process. But the Ethiopian Airlines’ defence said no, that they know nothing about a PPP and the 49

project is absolute,” Iyayi said. Shareholding Iyayi and other Nigerians wanted to know how sincere is the shareholding of Nigeria Air. They want to know how Ethiopian Airlines could be given 49 per cent of the shares without committing funds to the project. 49 per cent is absolute, how much is 49 per cent worth? And then the 46 per cent, is it allocated or paid for by way of subscription and by who? All and they have never been answered by the Minister, not by the Ministry and not by Ethiopian Airlines. All Ethiopian Airlines has said is that this is business, they have put in a bid, they have won, and it is clear that the 46 per cent is absolute. Then we now take cognisance of the fact that between 2016 and 2022, the federal government has budgeted N85.42 billion as appropriation for Nigeria Air. Where has that money gone to?

per cent, how much has Ethiopian Airlines paid for the 49 per cent it is holding, how much have they put in How much do we have in the Central Bank today? Now, Qatar Airways took out 49 per cent of Rwanda Air and they paid $1.3 billion. Rwanda does not have the market size Nigeria has. Rwanda does not have the bilateral agreement and multilateral agreement Nigeria has. So, who does the valuation? How do you value our 49 have not been answered. And we are asking if indeed this whole process is transparent and it is meant to be for the the so much desperation, particularly in the last two weeks of the Buhari

administration by the honourable minister?”

operating licence in Nigeria it must have its own aircraft registered in Nigeria and it must the pre-application phase, formal application phase, documentation phase, demonstration In 2016 the process started, and Nigeria Air was still in phase one. Many industry insiders believe that it indicated a lack of seriousness. Maybe, the minister had hoped to arm-twist the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) why industry stakeholders also said that in contravention of the Nigeria law and also NCAA regulation, Sirika displayed an aircraft supposedly owned by Nigeria Air that was

AON spokesman who is also the Managing Director/CEO of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, said Sirika’s promise to deliver Nigeria Air by May 29, 2023 was a contemptuous action and invitation to anarchy.

“Nigeria’s aircraft registration number is 5N and before you express the readiness to operate an airline you must have at least three aircraft registered in Nigeria, which you could buy or dry lease, but I can assure you that the document of the aircraft the minister brought in is not with NCAA,” AON spokesman said.

He said that if the minister had succeeded in having an airline without going through Aviation Organisation (ICAO) would have blacklisted Nigerian airlines because such would cast aspersion on the credibility of

The AON spokesman also said that the people behind this airline were eyeing Nigeria’s grandfather Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) rights, which is put at about $20 billion, adding that the alleged plan of Ethiopian Airlines is to force Nigerian carriers out of business with predatory prices; in order to force existing Nigerian carriers out of the market.

Future

Is there any future for Nigeria Air? Many stakeholders are calling for a forensic audit of the process of Nigeria Air and many regard it as a scam, which the former Minister used to delude Nigerians, as no one is yet to give an account of how much had been spent on the Nigerian carrier programme.

Executive Secretary of Aviation Round Table (ART), a think-tank body in the industry, Group Captain John Ojikutu (rtd), advised that the project should be discarded. one regional and continental and the other intercontinental from the existing carriers. National Carrier as being envisaged will end up as government carrier and die like the Nigeria Airways,” he said.

Ojikutu added that no government of even the USA the largest economy in the

“Please discard what Sirika is doing with Also, the Managing Director of Flight and Logistics Solutions Limited, Amos Akpan, told THISDAY that the new minister should review the entire process from ownership structure to funding arrangement, and management.

“Ethiopian Airlines cannot hold 49 per cent Nigerians with the capacity to buy shares in our national carrier. As for management, if they set up an international standard corporate governance system, there are Nigerians that will deliver results. The system will check and vomit unacceptable practices. There are international organisations successfully managed by Nigerians because they have in place a world-class corporate governance system; African Development Bank is an example,” Akpan said.

Judging from the mood of industry stakeholders, it should be a good night for Sirika’s version of a national carrier.

Nigeria Air’s aircraft

Economic Zones as Catalyst for Industrialisation and Growth

With the advent of a new administration led by President Bola Tinubu, issues of economic development and growth have been brought to the front burners. Critically looking at the issues has become more expedient than ever, given the woeful economic performance of the immediate past administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Chief amongst the bouquet of activities to aid the acceleration of Nigeria’s economic development and growth is industrialisation as the major drivers.

An economic zone is an area, which has aing multiple sectors and it is one that is established to attract investments, develop socio-economic, and protect national defence and security. The economic zone was designed to generate additional economic activities and employment opportunities as well as promote the export of goods and services produced within the area. Essentially, economic zones, which promote industrialisation, are foreign trade-oriented areas, which integrate science, industry

reduced regulations and special managerial systems.

The history of economic zones dates back to the 1970s when China made a paradigm shift in its economic policy to the extent that the country reformed and opened up its economy. The economic zones initiative was designed to make China competitive against industrialised nations of the West and the rising regional power like Japan, Singapore, Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong. As part of the policy, seven major Special Economic Zones were later created, located in the cities of Shenzhen, Xiamen, Hainan, Zhuhai, and Shantou, as well as city districts including the Pudong New Area of Shanghai, and the Binhai New Area in Tianjin.

A special economic zone (SEZ) is an area in regulations than other regions within the same country. The special economic zone is a broad term which covers a wide range of zones, such as free-trade zones, exportprocessing zones, industrial parks, economic and technology-development zones, hightech zones, science and technology parks, free ports, enterprise zones, and others.

In Nigeria, as a key policy instrument in the realisation of the industrialisation agenda, the federal government, in 2016, established the special economic zones scheme. The idea was to improve the investment climate by providing a competitive incentive regime, streamlining administrainfrastructure aimed at attracting capital investment for industrial development.

To date, there are six special economic zones established by the federal government. The special economic zones, which operate as free trade zones, export processing zones and free ports, amongst others, have 52 free trade zones licensed by the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA). As prosperous as the scheme may have been designed to be, the federal government has not been able to optimise its potential. Some of the free trade zones are inactive while

the active ones operate sub-optimally as they are bedevilled with challenges. The bureaucracy, meddlesomeness of governinadequate government support, amongst others. It is so unfortunate that these challenges are age-old and perennial. Nevertheless, of all the free zones in the country, those in Lagos state stand out. It’s wonderful and impressive that the state has completely leveraged the Federal Government Free Trade Zone Scheme to further fast-track its industrial growth while ensuring that 18 out of the 52 Free Trade Zones in the country are located on its soil. These zones are listed as Lagos Free Zone (LFZ); Snake Island Integrated Free Zone (SIIFZ); Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFTZ); LADOL; Newsrest ASL Services & Logistics; Dangote Industries; and Alaro City Development Free Zone Badagary Creek Integrated Plant.

Others are: Nigeria Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO); Eko Atlantic; Ogororo Industrial Park; Tomaro Industrial Park; NASCO Town FZ; Quit Aviation Services; Maritime Services FTZ; Cocoa Beach & Wellness Valued-Chain Resort; Flour Mills FZ and Oils Integrated Logistics Services. According to NEPZA, these free zones with an estimated investment value worth $25 billion are harbouring some of the most renowned international brands. Among the listed free zones, Lagos Free Zone, Eko are making the strongest impact on the economy.

In the Lagos Free Zone, promoted by Singapore-based Tolaram, are some worldclass enterprises like Colgate; Lekki Port; BASF; Insignia; Power Oil; Arla; HEC; Westminster; Boskalis; CNC; SBS; Kellogg’s among others.

Of note is the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which remains a world-class maritime infrastructure worth $1.5 billion with the capacity to mainstream the entire West African logistic potential into the global market.

Reference will also be made to the feat of planting the largest Colgate PalmOlive Company in Africa in the Lagos Free Zone. Colgate PalmOlive brought in an estimated investment of $7 billion into Nigeria. With this, the country is saving billions of dollars

that would have been used in importing all the home goods produced by this company.

Besides, there is Eko Atlantic Free Zone, which is located in an entirely new coastal city called Eko Atlantic City, being built on Victoria Island in Lagos.

It is regarded as a focal point for investors capitalising on rich development growth based on massive demand and a gateway to emerging markets of the continent.

The Lagos Government under Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu struck this deal that salvaged Victoria Island’s estimated $170 billion investments from being washed action of insightful leadership provided by President Bola Tinubu, when he was the state governor, has bestowed international status on that area of Lagos with many springing economic opportunities including harbouring the world’s largest Embassy of the United States of America.

billion investment, recently inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari was an idea by the visionary leadership of the Lagos State government. In fact, the receptiveness of the Lagos State government also created the right ambience for the Private Public Partnership to birth the petroleum lying sprawlingly in the Lekki peninsula, is expected to have the capacity to process about 650,000 barrels per day of crude oil, in the world.

Notwithstanding the huge investments and massive infrastructure development in the free zones and achievements recorded, there are still some gaps that need to be covered.

Executive Secretary, of Nigeria Economic Zones Association, Mr. Toyin Elegbede, said, “There is a need to revisit a lot of the policies that protect the free zones establishment. On the issue of whether the free zone is a tax-free haven or not, there is the need to look at the law and explain to people like the FIRS that Section 8 invites investors and promises them a lot of things in terms of incentives. But it’s unfortunate that the FIRS is now holding the investors to ransom and varying how they pay tax. Investors are

complaining about that.”

Elegbede also noted that the current legislative frameworks- NEPZAAct 63 of 1992 & Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) Act of 1996- that guide the operations of the Free Zone Scheme in Nigeria are obsolete. “It is pertinent to have an up-to-date SEZ law regulation, development, management, and operations of Special Economic Zones aimed at accelerating economic growth and industrial development of Nigeria. A new Special Economic Zone bill has been presented to the National Assembly for enactment, but law,” he stated.

The executive secretary also mentioned to ease doing business in the free zones by reducing the bottlenecks associated with accessing and sourcing foreign capital, as well the Free Zones. “In order to actualise this, an inter-agency committee was constituted which subjected the guidelines to national consultations with stakeholders arriving at a draft,” he added.

The federal government, according to him, is graciously requested to intervene for the Central Bank of Nigeria to expedite guidelines for banking operations in the and ready for adoption.

On the relationship with Federal Inland Revenue Service( FIRS), Elegbede disclosed MOU signed with the tax authority that were being streamlined to complement the mandates and roles of NEPZA, OGFZA, and FIRS in the discharge of their statutory responsibilities. This should be concluded expeditiously.

Interestingly, Tinubu, in his inaugural speech, has promised local and foreign investors to review all their complaints about multiple taxations and various anti-investment inhibitions. He also assured investors and foreign businesses of the repatriation of their “hard-earned

There is no time better than now for the new administration led by President Bola Tinubu to take a critical look at the economic zones, regarded as the drivers of industrialisation and engine of economic growth and address the challenges inhibiting their optimal performance, Kunle Aderinokun writes

Lekki Deep Sea Port

SOFT FINANCE

Tunde Lemo: You Can Build Wealth Working 9-5

By popular demand, we represent another classic interview focusing

how to build a life of comfort as an employee. In this interview with me, Tunde Lemo, former Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria; a banker of note who was recently appointed Chairman of Titan Bank, shared valuable tips on how to build a life of comfort legitimately while working for others as an employee. His blueprint should definitely be of tremendous help to anyone who desires to follow that pathway. Enjoy..

Q1. When did you decide you would stay that long working for others instead of building your own business?

Aftere:

OPENING SHOT

Although I do not regard myself as wealthy by any standards, I am comfortable and content with what I have. I did not at any time decide to continue working for others throughout my active life. I started my career in 1985 as a staff accountant in an international firm of chartered accountants - Arthur Andersen. I moved into banking four years later and remained consistent until my appointment into public service in January 2004, after running Wema Bank as MD/CEO for three years.

I am one person who concentrates 100% on assignments given to me, believing that no matter what happens, hard work, honesty and godliness pay, whether you run your own business or work for others. It is fallacious to think you can only build wealth by working for yourself. James Dimon, the Chairman/ CEO of JP Morgan, has been in that role since 2005, although the bank is not his. He was appointed like any other employee and is worth $1.4 billion today (about N600 billion). He achieved this by dint of hard work. We also have many other successful professionals today who have built their wealth on hard work. I am not saying ‘stepping out’ to run your business is unwise. You also need to understand that we probably have more people today who have built their wealth working for others than many years ago. This is because compensation globally is more performance-driven today than before.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREER PATH?

I cannot vividly remember why I took the decision, but I was influenced by many factors, one of which was my background. I wasn’t born with a silver spoon and I started very early in life being responsible, not only to my immediate family but to my parents as well. The fear of failure was a factor. You may be very good at what you are doing. Your success when you are self-employed depends on many other factors outside your control - the economic climate, etc. You cannot quantify the protection you get from your employers. So many of my friends that veered out early regretted their actions because they ‘saw the real world’ when they were managing their businesses. Some swallowed their pride and ran back to paid employment.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER AS SUCCESS FACTORS?

The critical success factors for succeeding and building wealth while working for others are as follows: Ensure there is significant career progression in the employment that you have. Some jobs are limiting. You cannot grow above the sectoral limit, etc. I remembered sometime in 1991, I got an offer to become a financial controller in a company importing and distributing air conditioners. I was offered twice my salary as a banker, in addition to an official car and driver. I turned down the offer because I didn’t see much scope for significant growth in that sector. I was not carried away by the initial rise in income. All I am saying is that you need to

be strategic. You need to think long-term. You cannot afford to mortgage long-term career growth for immediate benefits. Besides, you will do well in a very structured environment where the reward is based on objective criteria that are clear and fair to all. The company’s values must be world-class, open and transparent. Otherwise, you will just be gambling, and the consequences may be daring.

when I was given my first official car. There was no need for unnecessary expenditure. We embarked on aggressive savings and invested in quoted shares and land holdings. These paid off as prices began to rise. Most of the little we have today results from significant capital gains.

PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER WORK

Warren Buffet (I have not checked whether or not this is true). It says: Be careful when others are reckless; be reckless when others are careful. This means the best time to buy shares is when the price is low, and the best time to sell is when the price is high.

Second, my wife and I made up our minds that we shall benchmark ourselves with friends who were earning well below us and then plug our standards of living at their level. The logic is that if they could cope at that level, we should regard what we earned above theirs as EXTRA that should be saved. This paid off as our savings far exceeded what our peers were doing. We also made up our minds that we shall not compete with any of our friends in terms of choice of cars and other things young people were spending their money on.

HOW

DID YOU HANDLE DIFFICULTIES ON YOUR PATH?

There are many land mines in career progression. While your values, which are authentic ingredients for accelerating your career, are desirable, you may also be vulnerable because there are so many competitors who may not be as good as you are but may be desperate. In my career as a banker, I came across many colleagues who were equally upwardly mobile, good and well behaved. Unfortunately, at a particular point, they began to see me as a threat, and their attitudes changed. If you move fast in your career and get promoted ahead of your contemporaries, getting their full cooperation may be very difficult as they may become envious of you. You must beware of ‘banana peels’, intrigues, outright hatred, etc. In our clime, you may

hatred, etc. In our clime, you may become a victim if the Lord is not on your g y side. I thank God because He protected y me throughout those challenging years.

WHAT ARE THE STRATEGIES YOU USED IN BUILDING YOUR CAREER?

Preparing for the years after work is for you to realise that you start preparing for retirement from the FIRST salary you collect while working. Many should realise today that they will spend long years in retirement than the number of years they spend working. Most people today do not start a serious career before age 30 and may retire before they are 60. If they lived beyond 90, as many do now, they would have spent more years than their working years. You also need to review your portfolio as you go along. Keep minimal cash because of its fungibility. You are also likely to do impulsive buying if you keep too much cash. Besides, with high inflation in this clime, money market returns always trail inflation. You will therefore be losing the real value of your hard-earned wealth. Hard currency and real estate (in choice locations) will better preserve your assets’ value.

THAT HELPED

FINANCIAL TIPS THAT HELPED YOU?

I read the book titled: Richest Man in Babylon. The book teaches savings and thrift. It proved to y be very useful in those days. g I also learnt this tip about y y investment in shares. The p saying was credited to

HOW WOULD YOU INVEST A N50MILLION CASH?

If I have N50m to invest now, I will put it in the assets class that gives good returns but whose values also rise ahead of or at the same pace as inflation. Example: eurobond, real estate, etc.

ANY REGRET FOLLOWING YOUR PATH?

If I were to start again, given what I know today, I would have borrowed a lot to buy property in Ikoyi and Lekki axis. I would have invested more in telecomms immediately after the privatisation in 2003, etc. Hindsight, they say, is 20:20.

I have also learned the benefits of regular exercise and work-life balance the hard way. I was generally very healthy as a younger career person. I, therefore, did not understand the health benefits of regular exercise, healthy diets and recreation. I believe I would have been healthier today if I had added such to my lifestyle much earlier.

FINAL WORDS

Concerning career-building strategies, first, I will say the God g g factor was responsible for the little g y I was able to do. Ecclesiastes 9:11 p says, “and I look under the sun, the race is not to the swift, the y g g pp y ggy g we would not p y I pp cars in 1 992

knowledge is not to men of understanding…. time and chance happened to them all”. That aside, you must learn how to save aggressively. I thank God I have a good and virtuous wife with whom we planned that we would not spend our money on frivolities. For instance, I stopped buying

The final I will cannot run faster than fo y fear God, be humble, do p 90% of what to y y may not last because Go y y th y the eggs it does not riche gg means, shall pp p an y as fools” y hea show up later i y af some are irr g positi p we learn to tak quickly puni gqy someone els p not

O after the 1979 g believed was again j governmen g His resp j not bit p Bitter biolo shou you else y

The final thing I will say is that in all these, you cannot run faster than God. To succeed in life, please embrace the following principles: fear God, be humble, do unto others what you want them to do, and be honest because 90% of what happens to you in life is outside your control. Any illicit money you make may not last because God warns against it in Jeremiah 17:11, “as the partridge lays on the eggs it does not hatch, so are those who pile up riches, not by the right means, they shall live it in the midst of their days, and in the end, they will be as fools”. You should also watch your health. Health issues show up later in years when you can no longer afford huge medical bills; some are irreversible. Work-life balance, be positive and be prayerful. I advise that we live better if we learn to take things easy and forgive quickly. Anger, bitterness, etc., are the punishment you suffer for someone else’s misdeeds. It is not worth it. I remember the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, after the 1979 election, which he believed was rigged against him. A journalist asked him if he was bitter against the then military government of Olusegun Obasanjo for what happened. His response was this: I am not bitter! Why should I? Bitterness destroys your biological system. Why should you be punishing yourself for someone else’s misdeed? This is profound. We live better if we learn to forgive ALL THE TIME!

Concerning career-building strategies, first, I will say the God factor was responsible for the little I was able to do. Ecclesiastes 9:11 says,“and I look under the sun, the race is not to the swift, the knowledge is not to men of understanding…. time and chance happened to them all”

African Union and BRICS: The Challenge of ICC International Warrant of Arrest

The African Union (AU), from its name, is a union that was carved out from the Organisation of African Unity (OAU). The OAU seized to be an organisation for cooperation and unity of African countries to becoming a Union. It should be recalled that the declared objectives of the OAU were initially to promote the unity and solidarity of African states, to coordinate and intensify their cooperation, to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity and independence and promote international cooperation.

In the way the European Economic Community (EEC) was restructured to become European Community (EC) and then to European Union (EU) following the 1993 MaastrichtTreaty, the OAU was transformed to the African Union on 9-9-1999 when African leaders issued the Sirté Declaration establishing the African Union which now comprises 55 countries.The Union was officially launched in July 2002 in Durbar, South Africa.

The objectives of the African Union as provided in its Constitutive Act are more comprehensive than the 1963 OAU objectives. The AU vision is now to have ‘an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.’ The AU wants to achieve greater unity and solidarity, accelerate the political and socio-economic integration of Africa, promote and defend Africa’s common positions, promote democratic principles and institutions, as well as good governance, promote research in all fields, and ensure the effective participation of women in decision-making, etc., in addition to the objectives of the OAU.

One objective that is relevant to our discussion here is the objective of promoting and defending African common positions on issues of interest to the continent and its peoples. The issue of international warrant of arrest being issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) is one of the issues of interest to the Governments and Peoples of Africa. Several African leaders have been issued with international warrants of arrest or invited by the ICC.They include CharlesTaylor of Liberia, Al-Bachir of Sudan, Laurent Gbagbo of the Côte d’Ivoire and Kenyan Deputy President, Mr William Ruto, Sylvestre Mudacumura, the head of a Rwandan rebel groups, the Congolese rebel leader, Bosco Ntaganda, etc. The official AU attitude towards the ICC policy of warrant of arrest is very clear at the level of Heads of State and not at the levels of non-state actors. The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) similarly has the challenge of ICC’s warrant of arrest. This is the current case of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Africa and ICC Warrants of Arrest

South Africa was first challenged by the case of President Omar Ahmad Al-Bashir and is again going to be more challenged by the case of President Putin if he attends the August 2023 BRICS summit holding in South Africa. President al-Bashir has been issued two warrants of arrest. The first warrant was issued on March 4, 2009 while the second warrant was issued on 12 July 2010. He is still at large as efforts made to accost him in South Africa have failed.

In other words, there cannot be any trial until he is arrested and taken to The Hague, the Seat of the Court. Unlike the International Court of Justice otherwise referred to as the World Court, which only deals with sovereign States, the ICC deals with individuals and the ICC cannot embark on his trial unless he is present at the courtroom in person. Besides, there is nothing like immunity for Heads of State before an international criminal court with authority, even if a state is not a signatory to the Rome Statute.

The Sudanese leader went to Jordan in March 2017 to participate in an Arab League summit and was expected to be arrested in Jordan because Jordan was a signatory to the Rome Statute. He was not arrested. The argument of Jordan was that Sudan was not a member of the ICC and that, at the time of the visit of President Al-Bashir to Jordan, the Government of Jordan said it had no obligation to arrest Al-Bashir because of his presidential status. However, the 5-man ICC Appeal Court was compelled to rule on 6th May, 2019 that the Government of Jordan had failed to meet its international legal obligations, indirectly raising the issue of disregard for the principle of sanctity of agreements.

President Al-Bashir was issued a warrant of arrest based on

charges of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes, particularly because of his roles in the counterinsurgency campaign in Darfur during which more than 300,000 deaths and millions of displaced people were recorded. What is noteworthy in this case is that the ICC appeal court made it clear that ‘no traditional principle of head-of-state immunity – which protects leaders on foreign soil from arrest – existed that was necessary to be waived.’ Besides, the appeal court also made it clear that both Sudan and Jordan have the obligation to arrest President Al-Bashir in light of the fact that both of them were signatories to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and that all signatories to the Convention were required to prevent and punish genocide.

Another point that is noteworthy is that it is not only Jordan and South Africa that have failed in meeting their international obligations. Al-Bashir has visited Uganda, Chad, Djibouti, and Malawi but he was never harassed or arrested. Even in his home country, Sudan, the transitional military government that succeeded has made it clear that it ‘would not hand al-Bashir over to face justice at the ICC, but could try him in Sudan.

And more interestingly is the case of South Africa and the apparent non-cooperative attitude of several African countries towards the ICC’s warrants of arrest on some people. Explained differently, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber II has been compelled to refer on 11th July 2016 its decisions on the non-compliance by the Republic of Djibouti and by the Republic of Uganda with the request to arrest and surrender Omar Al-Bashir to the Court and referring the matter to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the Assembly of the State Parties to the Rome Statute. Sudan and Uganda were required to provide submissions on their failure

One critical challenge with which the ICC is faced is not simply the non-reaction of the UNSC to the ICC referrals sent to the UNSC and the frustrations of the ICC judges but the increasing disagreement and non-preparedness of many countries to comply with the obligations created by the Rome Statute. African leaders have raised questions about ICC warrants of arrest targeting mainly African leaders. In the eyes of Africa, this is discrimination. They made it clear that they do not accept the arrest and trial of any sitting president in Africa by the ICC. Now, for the first time, an international warrant of arrest has been placed on an Eastern European leader, Vladimir Putin of Russia. If Omar Al-Bashir has visited many countries in spite of the warrants of arrest placed on him in 2009 and 2010, if he has not been arrested and handed over to the ICC, which African country will arrest President Putin in Africa? True, the AU frowns at the arrest of a sitting President. Even if China were to play host to the August 2023 BRICS summit, is it China that will arrest Putin and hand him over to the ICC? Can Putin be arrested without its global consequences? Is it possible to have one world of Western values only? In whose interests will a weakened Russia be? More importantly, will the arrest of Putin put an end to the Russian special military intervention in Ukraine? Western European countries must begin to learn how to make haste slowly in their ICC agenda. They should allow trouble to sleep quietly in its room. If not, Europe may suffer a great deal and for a long time to come from its error of terror being put in place

to arrest and surrender Omar Al-Bashir to the Court.

In South Africa, the Government prevented the prosecution of President Al-Bashir who went to Johannesburg, South Africa, in June 2015 to participate in an AU Summit. The ICC War Crimes judges have admitted that South Africa really flouted its duties to the ICC. The presiding judge, Cuno Tarfusser, said South Africa’s inaction was contrary to the Rome Statute and prevented it from prosecuting Al-Bashir on ten charges of war crimes, including three of genocide in Darfur.

Without doubt, South Africa had its reasons for not respecting the ICC provisions on international warrant of arrest. Pretoria’s lawyers made it clear at an April 2015 ICC hearing that ‘there was no duty under international law on South Africa to arrest Bashir.’South Africa insisted that‘there was nothing at all’in the UN resolution to waive Bashir’s diplomatic immunity but the ICC prosecutor then, Julian Nicholls, responded that South Africa‘had the ability to arrest and surrender him and it chose not to do so.’Mr Nicholls was quite right but he missed completely the point being made by South Africa, which is a point of law: no enabling law to arrest and none to compel a waiver of presidential immunity.

Most interestingly but also disturbingly, the United Nations summoned South Africa to defend itself at the ICC. The Summon has been to no avail. In fact, Judge Tarfusser argued that referring the matter to the UNSC would be, at best, effectively futile since the Council had failed to act in six previous referrals over the Bashir case. The interesting and disturbing aspect of the UNSC inaction is the specific frustration of the ICC judges who expected the support of the UNSC but to no avail. If the ICC could not and still has not been able get Al Bashir arrested and taken to the Court in The Hague, which President in Africa will be freely willing to arrest the Russian President? The Amnesty International’s Netsanet Belay has summarised the problem neatly:‘shocking that other states parties such as Jordan are also failing in their obligations to arrest Al-Bashir and this decision makes it clear that they do so in flagrant violation of international law.’

Undoubtedly, if Putin travels to any of the hostileWestern countries, he can always be joyfully arrested and handed over. President Putin is not likely to make the mistake of travelling to Western Europe at this material time of the Russo-Ukrainian war. The issue of President Putin possibly participating in the next summit of the BRICS in August 2023 in South Africa was raised at the BRICS meeting of the Council of Ministers last week. President Putin has not openly said he would not be attending the summit in August. There is no reason why he should not attend, he still maintains.

As a result, South Africa was reported to have considered the possibility of shifting the venue of the meeting to China.There are reports that South Africa is considering withdrawing its membership of the ICC in light of the challenges being faced.Two points are noteworthy here. First, the ICC has made it clear that non-membership of the ICC does not mean that the international responsibility of a country cannot be called to question. In the case of Sudan, Sudan is not a party to the ICC but its leader is a criminal suspect. The problem in this case is that a non-member State of the ICC may not be compelled to implement an agreement to which it is not a party, especially if the request for arrest is based solely on the Rome Statute. The argument of the need to also respect other agreements, like the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide to which South Africa might have subscribed, we believe that South Africa cannot be legally held responsible if the request for arrest is not based specifically on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, which is quite different from the RomeTreaty. Put interrogatively, why is it that the United States is not favourably disposed to the trial of its soldiers by the ICC? The United States did not sign the Rome Statute. Should an agreement not signed by a sovereign state be imposed on it? In the event of imposition, can it be so done to a great power without consequences? Public commentators have drawn attention to alleged war crimes by the United States but heaven has not fallen? Can there really be one world of western values for the diverse peoples of the world? Whatever is the case, the ICC’s warrant of arrest is quite interesting to monitor.

Russia and ICC Warrant of Arrest

On 17 March 2023, the Pre-Trial Chamber of the ICC issued warrants of arrest for President Vladimir Vladimirovitch Putin who was born on 7 October 1952 and for Ms Maria Alekseyevna Lvova-Belova. President Putin was accused of responsibility for the war crime of unlawful transfer of children from occupied areas of Ukraine to Russia contrary to Articles 8(2)(a) (vii) and 8(2)(b)(viii) of the Rome Statute. Article 8(2)(a)(vii) defines a war crime ‘as grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, namely, any of the following acts against persons or property protected under the provisions of the relevant Geneva Convention. The acts are i) Wilful Killing; ii) Torture or inhuman treatment, including biological experiments; iii) Wilfully causing great suffering or serious injury to body or health; iv) Extensive destruction and appropriation of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly; v) Compelling a prisoner of war or other protected person to serve in the forces of a hostile power; vi) Wilfully depriving a prisoner of war or other protected person of the rights of fair and regular trial; vii) Unlawful deportation or transfer or unlawful confinement; and viii) Taking of hostages.

Mahamat

Onukaba, Ugoji: How Atiku Shamed Death

Tunde Olusunle

Veteran Nigerian composer, singer, instrumentalist, band leader and undisputable legend of juju music, King Sunny Ade, (KSA) released a classic early 1976. It was in the immediate aftermath of the assassination of Nigeria’s charismatic military Head of State at the time, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed by mutineers on Friday February 13, 1976. Bukar Suka Dimka, a cranky army Lieutenant Colonel led the operation which denied Nigeria the leadership of a courageous and visionary Muhammed, who grossed so much in performance within his shortlived six months in office. Ibrahim Taiwo, a Colonel who was military Governor of Kwara State, was simultaneously extinguished same day, in the same coup which was supposed to have been a nationwide pogrom.

The worlds of the families, dependants and admirers of the deceased, came crashing down arising from that moment of madness.

Sunny Ade very aptly described February 13, 1976, as the “day the devil drank several cups of blood,” in the lyrics of that evergreen song.

That same harbinger of evil, mortal mischief and mass lachrymose was on duty, Sunday March 5, 2017, on the Ilesha-AkureOwo highway. Renowned journalist, biographer and playwright, Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo was returning from Abeokuta where he attended the “induction” of former military and civilian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, into the club of septuagenarians. As has become our collective misfortune in recent years, daredevil robbers were said to be operating at a spot before Akure, the Ondo State capital. Spontaneous commotion gripped commuters. Some drivers made 180 degree turns to avoid encountering the wasters.

Some other drivers hurriedly parked their vehicles and bailed into vegetation and flora on the sides of the road. Onukaba was one of those who instinctively sought refuge in the bushes. A vehicle which ran into the robbers ambush lost control and headed straight for Onukaba’s temporary sanctuary... It was a few days to his 57th birthday.

As Africans, the family, immediate and extended, is our “social security.” We support one other on the basis of the faintest of genealogical connections. Expressions like “step mother,” “half brother,” “cousin,” “niece,” “auntie” and so on, have no space in our traditional lexicon.

Onukaba was the vertebral column of his family, nuclear and global. Within his little means, he supported the education of his siblings, including half-brothers and sisters, and also foraged for jobs for them upon graduation. He had his own biological family, his wife, son, Asuku, and daughters Ebikere and Onyeche to tend, even as he wholly adopted Zulaiha, his maternal niece. The worlds of his benefactors surely came crashing down, as the devil ingratiated itself with a tumbler of crimson blood.

In this confusion, Onukaba’s erstwhile Principal, Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, instantaneously offered a lifeline. Onukaba’s children were pretty young, with Asuku the eldest just 14 and in secondary school. Maimunat his new wife was nursing Baby Onyeche. Onukaba’s earlier wife, Rachael, died eight years earlier.

Atiku thus established an Adinoyi-Ojo Onukaba Endowment Fund and constituted a Board of Trustees, under my chairmanship. Atiku put down the seed money for the operation of the Fund, which was also supported by a number of other concerned people. Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, Senator Ben Obi and Garba Shehu, were some of the do-gooders.

At the formal launch of the Endowment in May 2017, Atiku offered 100% scholarships to any of Onukaba’s children who desired to study at the American University of Nigeria, (AUN), Yola. Saturday May 27, 2023, Asuku Oshione Onukaba was one

of the proud graduates of the AUN at a colourful convocation which took place at the institution.

He has come to see me as a hybrid father and uncle especially recalling the relationship between my family and theirs back in the days. He studied Software Engineering, having collaborated with his friend and classmate, Aliyu Suleiman in developing CourseBuddy: An Online Platform for Sharing Course Materials as their final project. He earned a Second Class Upper grade. His ecstatic step-mother, Maimunat, attended the event and fed us with real-time photo updates.

A particular photograph which trended in the media from that graduation ceremony was that of Atiku flanked by a lady graduand and Asuku. That was Chinememma Emma-Ugoji, daughter of Emma Ugoji, a former communications strategist who worked in the Atiku Media Office (AMO), which the former Vice President has maintained for over 15 years. Ugoji died in an automobile crash in April 2021, en route his home after work. His daughter, Chinememma was already a student of AUN before her father’s demise and Atiku simply picked up her bills. Atiku thus, literally held the oesophagus of death the grim reaper and deflated the balloon of its hubris. He then pinned down its accursed backside on the mat, inflicting it with a decisive knockout, from the aspirations of both youngsters. His intervention at very crucial intersections in the lives of both kids among several others he has so fostered, has set them on the steady path to the attainment of their dreams and desires.

Asuku Onukaba articulated a very moving tribute in which he extolled Atiku’s spectacular kindness. According to him: “Your kindness in providing me with a scholarship has greatly impacted my life and allowed me to pursue excellent education which I would always be grateful for. Continuing, the young Onukaba noted: “My time at AUN has been nothing short of amazing. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, diversity and community engagement has provided me with exceptional learning experience that

has broadened my knowledge and perspectives. The supportive and inclusive environment at AUN has allowed me to thrive both academically and personally. I am grateful for the lifelong friendships and invaluable experiences I have gained during my time at the university.”

Chinememma Emma-Ugoji is overwhelmed by the patriarchal generosity of the Founder of AUN, Yola and her benefactor, Atiku Abubakar. The cub attorney is unable to immediately express her depth of appreciation to the erstwhile Vice President: “I cannot at this moment fully express my gratitude to His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, GCON, for granting me a full scholarship to complete my education at AUN. Your investment in me, means the world to me and my family and has opened up a world of possibilities and opportunities for me to be an AUN alumnus.” Speaking further, Chinememma noted that Atiku’s “handsome generosity has enabled the actualization of my dreams.” She concluded thus: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in me and investing in my future. Your kindness and selflessness will never be forgotten.”

For Atiku himself, the 2023 edition of the AUN Commencement (convocation or graduation in regular communication), was special. He said on his twitter handle: “This year’s American University of Nigeria Commencement Ceremony was personal to me. It marked the graduation of the children of my late aides who were on our full scholarship: Ms Chinememma Emma-Ugoji and Mr Asuku Onukaba from the Departments of Law and Software Engineering.”

The humane streak in Atiku’s constitution is ever dominant in his thoughts, convictions, decisions and actions. He wishes he could help the whole wide world, not with marinated and barbecued fish, but with

the capacity to be sustainably successful fishermen. Listening, caring, helping, giving, sharing, that whole gamut of philanthropy are his second nature. Fifteen of the Chibok girls of the 2015 saga who were kidnapped in their school in Borno State and taken to captivity by insurgents, were also educated in AUN on Atiku’s bill. He is an astute believer in the fact that given the right education, instruction, exposure and support, the sky is just the step-board for man’s attainment of his goals and aspirations in life.

The Guest Speaker at the 14th Commencement of AUN was the President of the African Export-Import Bank, (Afreximbank), Professor Benedict Okechukwu Oramah. He commissioned two new buildings in the university to accommodate the Schools of Law and Engineering respectively, as the institution continues to receive global plaudits for top quality teaching, learning, research, mentoring and innovation. This has necessitated the expansion of facilities in the infinite mass of the university campus, a project to which Atiku is wholly committed. Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Ben Obi, CON, and the Adamawa State Governor, Umaru Fintiri, witnessed the programme.

Oramah told the graduands at the lecture to gird their loins for the battle to restore Africa’s dignity. He observed that Nigeria and the African continent are deep in the fight for economic independence, which will define the future of Africans or otherwise.

Oramah reminded the youths: “The quality of education you received in this university has prepared you for the world. You will always aim for the best and never be content with substitutes. You must never allow yourself to be consumed by those negative attributes that divide us as a people because you can thrive without them and help us to build a better Nigeria.”

The new AUN President, (Vice Chancellor), De Wayne Frazier, reminded the outgoing students of the transformation the institution had accorded them. “Take that power you have as education and make the most of it,” he admonished the students.”

Olusunle, PhD, poet, journalist, scholar and author, is a Member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, (NGE).

Atiku flanked by Emma-Ugoji (left) and Adinoyi-Ojo

OBOREVWORI: HIGH EXPECTATIONS

DICKSON OMINABO

SUBSIDY AND THE UNCERTAINTY OF HOPE

On Monday, May 29, Nigeria witnessed another democratic transition with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu taking over the reins of power from Muhammadu Buhari. The transition signals a ray of hope for defenders of democracy around the world, more so for Africa when the continent is witnessing a wave of democratic recession characterized by unconstitutional change of government.

See Page 25

SHETTIMA, IHEDIOHA AND THE SUPREME COURT

ARINZE ANOGWI urges the apex court to give effect to its judgment disqualifying Uche Nwosu from the Imo governorship election on the ground of double nomination

The transition ended months of political anxiety and speculations about the plans to truncate the current democratic order by political interest groups. In the last two months, state and non-state actors have given different analyses on the likely end of the fourth republic.

The reports, prophecies, and fears about the impending democratic apocalypse in Nigeria were premised on the nature of the general elections and the discontent that followed thereafter. The brazen violence witnessed in some states during the election, and the election management body’s conduct all contributed to post-election malaise that necessitated fear of the likely disruption of the democratic order.

The inauguration signals a triumph of Nigeria’s democracy despite the obvious challenges associated with the last election. A threat to Nigeria’s democratic order threatens the fate of democracy not just in West Africa but the entire continent. Nigeria’s status as a democratic hegemon in the continent imposes great responsibilities on the nation to preserve and uphold its constitutional framework to inspire other countries to promote democracy.

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EDITORIAL MUCH ADO ABOUT FUEL SUBSIDY

Inaugural speeches usually reflect the campaign manifesto of the party and some other current realities. President Tinubu expectedly used his address to clarify his administration’s priorities. The speech highlighted his administration’s quest to build a prosperous and united society. The tenor and tone of the speech reflected President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, as it referenced the country’s potential amid the many challenges that have prevented the citizens from accessing hope, peace and joy. The President echoed the need for unity in diversity; he preached that hope and peace would be realized when citizens work in unity of purpose.

The President promised to uphold the rule of law and respect the laws of the land. Perhaps very inspiring is his commitment to asserting Nigeria’s place in the comity of nations and ensuring it takes its leadership position in Africa. President Tinubu pledged to work with the regional bodies and other global stakeholders to resolve some of the continent’s shared problems starting with the conflict in Sudan. This is welcoming as Nigeria was fast losing its leadership position in the comity of nations. During the past administration, the stature of the Nigerian state was bruised on many fronts, and the country lost its leadership role and status in the continent. Unlike in the past when Nigeria wielded so much influence in the continent, resolving conflicts in different nations.

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The President listed his priority areas as security, economy, agriculture, job creation, monetary policy, and infrastructure. This meticulous conceptualization of policy drive will make sense if the president matches his word with commitment and delivers these promises. In Nigeria, politicians usually speak what they don’t mean and never commit to their actions. Recall how President Buhari, during

his inauguration, declared that he belonged to everybody and belonged to nobody. The statement ended up being a political statement that was never intended to be implemented, as his actions later proved to be the opposite of what he said. President Tinubu has vowed to serve with “prejudice toward none but compassion and amity towards all.” We pray that he matches his word with action and treats every political group fairly and equally.

Commenting on the 2023 election and the legitimacy questions around his mandate, the President emphasized that he won fairly. He dismissed the argument that the elections were flawed. He stated that the elections were the most credible to have been conducted recently. In the second to last paragraph of the speech, in what some may consider as vain triumphalism, he declared that my “name is Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and I am the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” This was to drum it to the ears of all opposition voices that he is the country’s present reality and that all parties, despite their grievances, must accept it.

While it would have been difficult outright to discuss the challenges of Nigeria’s democracy as witnessed in the last election in the inaugural

address, what many statesmen would have done would have been to acknowledge the fact that the nation’s democracy was still a work in progress and then restate the administration’s commitment to a credible and peaceful process in the future. The drama that characterized the announcement of the Adamawa governorship election was a good premise to anchor his promise for a better electoral system. Presenting the last general election as a perfect election carries a tone of insincerity.

One of the gaps in the speech was the fact that the issue of restructuring was left out. Restructuring has been on the front burner of national discourse for many years, and the President and his party have previously spoken on the need to restructure the country. The president spoke about the imperfect constitution but shifted the responsibility of making the country work to the citizens. He said: “Our constitution and laws give us a nation on paper. We must work harder at bringing these noble documents to life….” There is a limit to which citizens can help address some of the structural challenges of our nationhood without government input. This is where the idea of restructuring becomes very important. Maybe in the coming days, it will be interesting to hear the president speak on restructuring and what kind of restructuring his government would pursue.

Contrary to the promise of the President in his inaugural address that his administration shall “govern on your behalf but never rule over you,” and “We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate,” the president did the opposite in respect of the issue of fuel subsidies. The president announced the removal of fuel subsidies without stating how he would manage the effect of the post-subsidy economy. Through the transition period, the president had the opportunity to engage the relevant stakeholders on the fuel subsidy issue if he was determined to remove the subsidy, but he didn’t.

Nigerians nationwide are gnashing their teeth because of the agonizing reality of the fuel hike and product scarcity. Just a few minutes after taking over power, the president plunged the nation into economic and social crises with the famous utterance, “Fuel subsidy is gone.” This is the most defining statement in his entire speech. There is an air of uncertainty across the land: footage of long queues at petrol stations, clips of citizens lamenting the new reality, and groanings at every home and community on their present reality. A government with a mantra of renewed hope should be more circumspective on issues of public policies.

In some quarters, the joke is that with President Tinubu, hope is swallowed up in victory, and the days ahead will be rough and tough. Someone had said somewhere that with President Buhari, things were tough, but he was a Pharaoh who knew Joseph, but today we now have a Pharaoh who does not know Joseph, with the country besieged with an uncertainty of hope. Although it would be unfair to write an epitaph on Tinubu’s government at the moment, the message that should be taken to him is that, like George Floyd, Nigerians are struggling to breathe. So he needs to steady the ship of governance and give citizens a ray of hope.

The Governor is poised to surprise many with his performance, reckons JACKSON EKWUGUM

Nigerians are struggling to breathe. President Tinubu should give citizens a ray of hope, argues WEALTH

Ominabo is the Communications Officer at the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation

One of the gaps in the speech was the fact that the issue of restructuring was left out. Restructuring has been on the front burner of national discourse for many years, and the President and his party have previously spoken on the need to restructure the country

OBOREVWORI: HIGH EXPECTATIONS

The Governor is poised to surprise many with his performance, reckons JACKSON EKWUGUM

SHETTIMA,

IHEDIOHA AND THE SUPREME COURT

Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is a study in contrasts. His tough exterior belies his easy-going, mild-mannered nature. He walks with a bounce and with the assurance of a man with a keen sense of history and mission and, at the same time, exudes the meekness of the man in cassock. Unlike most politicians he is not overly ambitious but somehow destiny keeps thrusting him into the limelight. A man of austere speech, he prefers to let his actions do the talking. Truth be told, his personality is as much intriguing as it is enigmatic. The more you think you know him, the more you want to know him.

In the build up to the PDP gubernatorial primaries in 2022, not a few dismissed him as a non-factor, a pretender with an exaggerated view of his political worth and relevance. To his traducers, the governorship was way above his pay grade and that he should be grateful if he made the cut for a seat in the federal house of representatives. But Oborevwori may be simple and easy going but he is certainly not naïve or a pushover when it comes to politics and elections. He quietly and doggedly took his case to the grassroots - the youth, the women, and the party leaders – and strenuously canvassed their support for his candidacy. It was not long before the other aspirants came to the grim realisation that they were up against a movement. By then, tried as they could, the momentum could not be stopped. The lesson: underestimate Oborevwori to your own peril.

As he mounts the saddle of leadership in Delta State, the mood in the state is a mixture of excitement and caution. Excitement because of his street credibility and the promise of his MORE agenda – more empowerment programmes, more opportunities for workers, more in short, more everything! But then that enthusiasm is promptly tempered with the argument for the need to moderate the expectations often better to under-promise and over-deliver. While there is ample logic in the latter proposition –for there are always those with unrealistic expectations – but there really should be no apprehension, whatsoever, with the MORE agenda. As conceived, it is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and consistent with Oborevwori’s philosophy of growth and continuous improvement.

represents – consistency, capacity, six years as Speaker of the House, the Governor built a stellar reputation as a Oborevwori commanded the respect – and admiration - of his peers with his transparency, accountability, and trustworthiness. It is in this context that we must not take for granted his longevity as speaker. It is not often that a person holds sway in the state legislature for that long or transits from one Assembly to the other in the same position as speaker. It speaks volumes of his leadership credentials and the uncommon ability to rally people behind a cause. Those who think this is a mean feat would do well to carry out due diligence of the various Houses of Assembly in the country. It is often the case that speakers are angrily thrown out by their colleagues because of their opaque governance style and superstar syndrome.

It is to be expected that some would wonder if Oborevwori could replicate his deft handling of the House in the governance of the state. Whilst I concur that being a Governor is a much weightier responsibility, I hasten to add that it is not rocket science. One does not have to be a genius or it just takes doing the simple things to write your name in gold. Things like sincerity of purpose, clear sense of direction, putting round pegs in round holes, shunning nepotism, the courage to take tough decisions, being a good listener (but not to gossip), respect for differing views, and, of course, the wisdom to allocate limited resources to meet competing needs and interests. Oborevwori showed during his tenure as speaker that he can sift through the challenges of resource allocation in an equitable and judicious manner.

Oborevwori’s unique attribute as a leader is his authenticity. Being an authentic leader is to be unassuming, it also means to be relatable but not but resilient. Authentic leaders run an open-door policy and create a work environment devoid of mutual workplace where people are free to express themselves without fear of being sanctioned or victimized. In short, an authentic leader builds an environment where people have a sense of belonging and maintain a healthy self-esteem. I sense this will be the hallmark of his administration given his simplicity, humility, and straightforward approach to life and issues.

A bridge builder, and a man with a voracious appetite for learning, I posit that Oborevwori is poised to surprise many with his performance him is that of a man who understands that it is going to take a team, a good team, to actualize his agenda and is to superior counsel. Inclusiveness is in his DNA. And as we saw in the because of his longevity as speaker but destiny has bestowed upon him, and I see him continuing the game changing narrative as Governor.

In essence, that is what Oborevwori Ekwugum writes from

While delivering judgment last May 26, 2023 on the suit by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against All Progressives Congress (APC) on Kashim Shettima’s double nomination as senatorial candidate as well as vice presidential candidate of the APC, the famous case of APP v Uche Nwosu featured prominently.

The Supreme Court in the judgment read by Amina Augie, JSC, reaffirmed that Uche Nwosu was found by the court to have held double nominations of both APC and AA in the 2019 gubernatorial elections and disqualified him on that basis. Almost three years after the PDP applied to the Supreme Court to give effect to its judgment delivered on December 20, 2019, disqualifying Uche Nwosu from the Imo governorship election on the ground of double nomination, the apex court has refused to list the application for hearing.

No reason has been given by the court on why it has refused to list the application for hearing, especially considering the public interest of the subject matter. Legal analysts reason that a political party is not capable of sponsoring two candidates for the same office in the same election. This informed the decision of the PDP to file an application at the Supreme Court seeking that its candidate, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha be declared the winner of the election since APC was precluded from sponsoring two candidates in the Imo State governorship election

In an affidavit filed in support of the application which was deposed to by a legal practitioner, Adedamola Farokun, working in the Legal Department of the PDP, he averred thus: “The third Respondent/Applicant (PDP) is neither in any way seeking a review of the valid, subsisting and well considered judgment of this court delivered in this appeal nor seeking a review of the judgment of this court delivered on 14th January 2020 in SC/462/2019 but humbly seeking that this court give effect to its judgment delivered on 20th December,2019. “That this court has the constitutional, inherent powers and jurisdiction to grant the reliefs sought and give effects to its judgment.

“That it is in the interest of justice for this court to exercise its wide discretionary powers in favour of granting this application as prayed.”

PDP by Philip Umeadi, the party is asking the court to declare that the governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma was not the candidate of the APC based on the court’s judgment that Nwosu was nominated by both the APC and the Action Alliance.

PDP is also asking the court for an order enforcing or otherwise directing the enforcement and or giving effect to the judgement of the court in the case delivered on the 20th December 2019 wherein the court held that Nwosu was nominated by both APC and AA and consequently declared his nomination a nullity. PDP is asking of the Supreme Court to hold that “both the Action Alliance (AA) and the All Progressive Congress (APC) did not sponsor and/or field any candidate for the governorship election held in lmo State on 9th March, 2019 in view of the double nomination of the Appellant/Respondent by the two political parties aforesaid, and his subsequent disqualification as their gubernatorial candidate, as found by this honourable court in the judgment delivered on 20th December, 2019.”

The party asked the court for an order sequel to the above that Senator Hope Uzodinma was not a candidate by himself or of any party at the Imo State Governorship election held on 9th March, 2019. PDP also asked the court for an order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission Senator Hope Uzodinma.

It asked the court “for an order further directing the 4th respondent to issue a candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ehedioha in the lmo state Governorship election held on 9th March. 2019 as the duly elected governor of lmo state, having scored the second highest number of votes in the said election sequel to

the judgment of this court in Appeal No SC/1462/2019 Hope Uzodinma & Anor vs Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha & Others delivered on 14th January, 2020.”

The party further sought an order sequel to the above, directing that the said gubernatorial candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant in the lmo state Governorship election held on the 9th March 2019 Rt. Hon. Emeka lhedioha be immediately sworn in as the governor of lmo state. PDP stated the grounds for the application thus: “The court found that the Appellant/Respondent was nominated by both APC and AA as their gubernatorial candidate for the lmo state governorship election and conclusively held that he was the Electoral Act (as amended), for double nomination.

That after the said election, the governorship candidate of the 3d Respondent/Applicant Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha, was returned by the 4th Respondent as the winner of the election

That subsequently, the return of the governorship candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant was challenged up to this court by one senator Hope Uzodinma who claimed to be the gubernatorial ‘candidate of the APC.’

That this court in its judgement delivered on 14th January, 2020 held that it was the said Senator Hope Uzodinma and not Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha that scored the highest number of votes in the election and ought to be returned as the duly elected governor of lmo state.

That by the clear terms of the judgment in this appeal, neither the AA nor the APC governorship election held on 9th March 2019 and as such the said Senator Hope Uzodinma could not have been returned as the winner of the lmo State Governorship election as a candidate of the APC.

That APC could not have substituted the appellant with a view to further nominating the said Senator Hope Uzodinma as their candidate because that right was not available to the party under the ElectoralAct.

That Senator Hope Uzodinma could not have been a candidate in the election as an independent candidate as such right is not available to him. That the 3rd respondent Applicant, PDP, as the main beneficiary of the judgment ought to enjoy the fruits of thesaidjudgement.

That Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha, who is the candidate nominated by the 3rd Respondent / Applicant, and who scored the second highest number of votes after Senator Hope Uzodinma, from the judgment of this court ought therefore to be issued a certificate of return by the 4th respondent and sworn in accordingly.

That it will advance the cause of justice to grant this application particularly as none of the parties will be prejudiced by its grant.

the apex court has yet to consider it for hearing.

ARINZE ANOGWI urges the apex court to give effect to its judgment disqualifying Uche Nwosu from the Imo governorship election on the ground of double nomination

Asaba, Delta State

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email

peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

MUCH ADO ABOUT FUEL SUBSIDY

The Tinubu administration should dialogue with critical stakeholders that fuel subsidy has become a serious handicap

Taking a cue from President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration speech that the era of fuel subsidy was over, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited on Wednesday adjusted the pump price of petrol from N195 per litre to between N488 and N557 nationwide. The more than 200 per cent hike has elicited mixed reactions. Predictably, the threatened a showdown with the federal government as they often do. But the challenge at hand should be how to contain a spontaneous eruption of social unrest in a country where many are yet to come to terms with the outcome of the presidential election.

On this issue of removal of fuel subsidy, the position of THISDAY is clear. From inception 28 years ago, we have been consistent in highlighting the fact that fuel subsidy is a by-word for waste and corruption. But a major economic decision with implications for the social wellbeing of most Nigerians should not be handled with levity. We therefore urge the Tinubu administration to dialogue with critical stakeholders on the need to accept the reality that fuel subsidy cannot continue.

remains that Nigeria does not have the capacity to sustain petroleum products subsidy. For an economy that is tanking due to exogenous factors beyond the control of the country, the “luxury” of sustaining a warped subsidy regime is not only deceptive, but also tantamount to merely postponing the evil day.

Apart from the legal technicality that it was not provided for in the 2023 appropriation act, this decision is almost beyond the control of the Tinubu administration. With 96 per cent of earnings going to debt servicing, we are practically borrowing to pay for fuel subsidy. The various levels of our burgeoning bureaucracies are in a desperate bind on

in hospitals, schools, roads, and other critical areas that directly stimulate economic activities

(DMO) present disturbing signals that just as the government at the centre goes on a borrowing binge, the states are also neck-deep in debt accumulation. The fear that the machinery of government at all levels could grind to a halt if the cash cannot be found quickly is growing by the day.

As we have stated in the past, there are compelling arguments to make for retaining the status quo. The place a disproportionate burden on the poor are legitimate concerns, especially in an economy with high incidence of poverty, erratic power supply and inadequate public transport system. We also concede that subsidies can make political and social sense when they allow a government to pursue strategic objectives beyond the remit of the market, and are well targeted. However, the fuel subsidy regime in Nigeria has been largely captured by an importation cartel and is simply unsustainable. Besides, spending a substantial slice of the national budget to service the consumption of one single item is detrimental to the development of any nation.

We understand this decision is not cost-free. But Nigerians should be objective in assessing the policy against the reality on ground. Even if all the sharp practices associated with it are discounted, the fact

Therefore, continued payment of fuel subsidy is detrimental to national economy. The negative implications include diversion of investment from other potentially more needful government departments, encouraging rent-seeking by infrastructure projects, and the fact that subsidies as a case study, the Global Energy Architecture Performance Index (EAPI) Report once noted that products, and by implication creating value and employment externally, while shouldering the burden of the cost of its fuel subsidy.

Given that most of the states are broke, their focus has in recent times shifted to the subsidy regime. For that reason, we endorse this policy with abundant caution. Petroleum subsidy, we believe, corruption, and it is robbing society of vital resources that could be invested in hospitals, schools, roads, and other critical areas that directly stimulate economic activities. It cannot be business as usual in Nigeria, going forward.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief(150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer

TINUBU: THE BEGINNING OF A NEW DAWN

A new dawn has begun, and the world will notice a shift, hopefully in the right direction. President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has taken the bull by the horn by removing the oil subsidy and promising to implement a single exchange rate. He should not stop at oil subsidy, he must remove all illegitimate subsidies, whether it be oil, power transmission, and others. The president must set up a panel to remove subsidies that do not add value to our economic viability, growth, and development.

The elephant in the room is corruption and abuse of

in the land. Our institutions must be rid of corruption, incompetence, and perhaps the selective implementation of our ethical conducts and laws.

Congratulations to President Tinubu on behalf of all Nigerians of goodwill and for setting the right stage in addressing squarely and decisively the major problems drowning the economic development of Nigeria.

The president must invest in youth development and provide an enabling environment to enhance and support the growth and development of entrepreneurship, music, entertainment, import, artisan skills, and culture. Invest

in our diverse diaspora and create a model which will address the negative brain drain. The diaspora must be institutionalized just like the Youth service. The diaspora will add value to the development of all institutions to stop the brain drain, to earn the best of Nigeria all over the world, to contribute positively to the growth, diversity and creativity of our societies, communities, and our nation.

Security must be provided at all levels of our structural existence. Therefore, a review of our constitutional structure is compulsory and in the best interest of the Nigerian existence. A united Nigeria must be

restructured within the context of regional autonomy and a weak central government. Dr. Martin Luther King stated that peace the presence of justice. What is justice?

Justice is fairness, justice is equity, justice is compassion, justice is concern for your neighbors, justice is intentional love for humanity. Hope is still alive. The ball is in our hands, President Tinubu must stir the country in the right direction. We wish him well.

Prof. Babs Onabanjo, President/CEO, AD King Foundation, Atlanta, USA

Petroleum subsidy should be removed because it is inefficient, it is oiling corruption, and it is robbing society of vital resources that could be invested

Love-themed Songs Make the Best Music, Says Guchi

Stories by Vanessa Obioha

On the heels of ‘Relate’ released a few months ago, the young Afrobeats sensation Guchi returned with two singles last Friday. The songs ‘All Over You’ and ‘Mon Bebé’ are love songs that convey the message of love and desire. Since she burst onto the music scene in 2020 with ‘Jennifer,’ Guchi, born Ugochi Onuoha, has continued to captivate audiences with her infectious beats. Her fanbase stretches from Nigeria to Eastern Africa and other parts of the world, fetching her wide acclaim as well as collaborations with top music stars. Focused and ambitious, with each infectious beat she conjures, her fame skyrockets, solidifying her indomitable presence in the music industry. In this chat with THISDAY, she talks about her creative process and inspiration.

Love and heartbreak are recurring themes in your music. What draws you to explore these emotions, and how do you ensure your songs resonate with listeners on a personal level?

The theme of love sure makes some of the best music because it is an emotion that many people have felt and one that many more will feel. Making music with such a strong theme helps me capture the beautiful and heart-wrenching aspects of love in a timeless manner. Heartbreak is almost as important as love because it marks the end of a journey which subtly hints at a new journey ahead. With heavy emotions comes the need for expression and through my music, I help my listeners put words to their feelings.

Do you often draw from personal experiences when writing your songs?

I draw from many sources including my personal experiences, those of the people around me, books, music, movies, and nature, to name a few.

With your new releases, can you give us some insight into your creative process and the team you work with?

Every release is targeted at raising the bar higher. With the support and guidance of my Label -PG

AFRIMMA Plans Big for 10th Anniversary

This year, African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) will mark a decade and the organisers are not doing things in half measures. The awards will honour African music ambassadors in a big way.

“It promises to be the biggest and best version of the award ceremony,” said AFRIMMA Board President, Anderson Obiagwu. “AFRIMMA is 10 and African music in the past 10 years has reached new milestones and it’s worth rolling out the drums in celebration.”

The award ceremony is set to take place at the monumental Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, Texas on September 17, 2023. Also taking place is the highly topical AFRIMMA Music Panel which has come to be a feature of the award ceremony. The AFRIMMA Fashion show, another staple of the awards, will be held on September 16, 2023, at the 5am Theatre. It is expected to attract the cream of the fashion world to its glamorous stage.

Records and my Management- Loud Behaviour, I am able to explore various creatives and experiences that could potentially enrich the substance of each song. My current songs are a product of this process and they present a side of me that has never been experienced on a record.

Apart from ‘Jennifer’, what other song was pivotal in your music career?

I’ll say the song ‘Benzema’ because of how viral it went and the opportunities that came with it.

I know your stage name is a variation of your native name but just wondering if you are a fan of the fashion brand Gucci?

Gucci is a solid fashion brand, Guchi is a solid music brand too and real recognizes real.

What future collaborations do you have on the horizon and is there a particular artist, local or international that impacted your journey?

I have some exciting collaborations in the pipeline and they will be revealed in due time. Yemi Alade, Ladipoe, Zlatan, and Rayvanny are some of the artists that have directly impacted my career. The others that have impacted me indirectly are too numerous to count.

Mercy Chinwo, Joe Praise, Others to Grace Preye Odede Concert

As gospel musician, Preye Odede prepares for the 2023 edition of his concert tagged, ‘The Move’ scheduled for Friday, June 16 has announced the gospel music ministers who will be gracing the stage with him. They include Mercy Chinwo, Joe Praise, Mr M and Revelation, MOG (from Ghana), Onos Ariyo, Noble G, and Sensational Bamidele, among others.

In addition, popular Pastor Jerry Eze, alongside Lanre Olusola and Grange Izunwa will be sharing the gospel at the concert.

“The Move 2023, is not just a concert, it’s a revival. We believe God for an outpouring that will change the experience and lives of the people of Port Harcourt and all those who will be attending,” said Preye.

Launched in Ghana in 2019, ‘The Move’ has established itself as a force to be reckoned with, having previously achieved incredible success and widespread acclaim. Its premiere in Accra witnessed the 3,500-capacity venue selling out completely. In 2021, the overflow of attendees in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State surpassed the limits of the city’s largest indoor event venue, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who experienced it.

AFRIMMA prides itself as the sole African award ceremony in the Diaspora that celebrates African music stars on the international stage. The first edition was held on July 26, 2014, at the Eisemann Center, Dallas. It recognises and celebrates all musical genres including but not limited to Afrobeats, Assiko, Bongo, Decale, Highlife, Funaná, Genge,

Basketmouth, Wofai, Feature in Orijin New Campaign

Top Nigerian entertainers, Bright Okpocha (Basketmouth), Saheed Osupa, Wofai Fada, and Ugoccie, are featured in the new Orijin ‘Deeply Rooted’ campaign. The campaign, which premiered on May 25, 2023, celebrates the power of embracing one’s cultural heritage and the transformative potential it holds.

In a dazzling television commercial that captures their personal narratives, these exceptional talents embody the essence of being deeply rooted, showcasing the profound impact that their Nigerian roots have had on their lives and achievements.

Speaking on the new campaign, Mark Mugisha, the Marketing and Innovations Director, Guinness Nigeria, highlighted the crucial link between creativity and remaining deeply rooted in one’s origin.

“The ‘Deeply Rooted’ campaign is a powerful call for Nigerians to fully embrace their core identity and unleash the exceptional qualities that define them. We aim to inspire Nigerians to recognize the immense power within their essence, their roots, and to wield it as a catalyst for personal transformation and positive impact,” said Mr Mugisha.

The ‘Deeply Rooted’ campaign by Orijin aims to foster pride and connection to Nigerian heritage. It encourages individuals to embrace their Naija roots and culture, cultivating a renewed sense of identity and empowering them to make a lasting impact on their communities and the nation.

This year, the concert is gearing up to make an even greater impact. Titled “No Restriction,” it will take place at the magnificent EUI Center, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, a spacious venue with a seating capacity of 5,000 and an overflow area accommodating over 500 additional worshippers. The concert is free to the public.

Gospel Groove Talent Quest Launches

EeZee Conceptz Global, a leading gospel music powerhouse, is launching the Gospel Groove Talent Quest (GGTQ) and has called for entries.

The talent quest, according to the company, is aimed at discovering, empowering, and growing young gospel music artists with a balance of ministry and industry principles.

“Gospel Groove Talent Quest is an initiative of EeZee Conceptz Global designed to discover and empower young and growing gospel music artists with the balance of ministry and industry principles (MINDUSTRY). The aim is to give desiring participants an opportunity on a journey to building a professional music career equipped with sound ministry values for the kingdom of God as a gospel music artist,” said Ben Ogbeiwi, the Project Manager of the talent show.

With an impressive prize pool worth N300 million, the Gospel Groove Talent Quest offers an unparalleled opportunity for participants. The overall winner will be awarded a remarkable three-year recording deal valued at N300 million, in addition to receiving a brand-new car and a cash prize of N10 million. There are also various consolation prizes

On the modalities for GGTQ, Ogbeiwi explained that the participants will be screened by a team of judges through an audition leading to the live shows, where the best-performing participants will be decided by a credibly transparent adjudicating system.

He noted that the audition is open for entrants across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria who are between the ages of 18 and 30. Entry closes by midnight on June 14, 2023.

Guchi

AFRIMMA Board President, Anderson Obiagwu

Ben Ogbeiwi, Project Manager of GGTQ

Preye Odede

HADIZA BALA USMAN SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

In a patriarchal system that suppresses women’s voices, Hadiza Bala Usman rewrites the narrative as captured in her memoir ‘Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority.’ As the first female managing director of the maritime agency, she provides a detailed account of her tenure, while honouring the legacy of her late father, Yusuf Bala Usman, known for his guilelessness. Vanessa Obioha profiles her and the reception that has greeted her book release

If You Don’t Write Your Own Story, Other People will Write It for You

The gathering at RovingHeights bookstore at Landmark Centre, Lagos, was a momentous occasion for the women in attendance. Seated in front of them was this historic woman of different dimensions, Hadiza Bala Usman, the daughter of the foremost historian, the late Yusuf Bala Usman. She is the co-founder of Bring Back Our Girls campaign group and the first female Chief of Staff of Kaduna State and the first female Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

Some of the women gathered there knew her from her time at NPA, others were childhood friends. There were however younger women as well as men seeking inspiration from her experiences in navigating the complexities of public service. These experiences have been intricately captured in her new memoir, ‘Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority.’

Ever since her suspension from the NPA which she helmed from 2016 when the former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed her, there have been different versions of what transpired that led to her suspension from the agency. It was in 2021 that Bala Usman was asked to vacate the seat, shortly after she was approved for a second tenure. A perceived battle between her and the former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi who was her boss was believed to be the root of her removal from the maritime agency.

To be sure, Bala Usman’s tenure at the NPA was transformative. Under her leadership, the agency underwent a remarkable overhaul, eradicating the longstanding stain of corruption and gaining a renewed reputation. Known for her knack for transparency, it took less than six months to uncover a N11.23 billion fraud. Further investigations according to reports revealed that $24.1 million of NPA revenue was found hidden in an account at one bank and another six million Euros in separate accounts at two other banks. The more she dug, the more fraudulent acts were unearthed. Drawing from her father’s principles and her background in policy research and public sector reforms, Bala Usman rolled up her sleeves and put in strategies to uncover corruption and recover debts that have burdened the agency in the past. But it was not only about rescuing the NPA from corrupt actors. Bala Usman also rewarded long-serving staff members for their devotion to the agency.

Given her remarkable reputation, it was not surprising that the bookstore was cramped with many guests, some of whom took Bala Usman by surprise. As introductions were made, she remained unassuming, acknowledging comments with nods and gestures that conveyed her appreciation for the attendance.

With the formalities concluded, Bala Usman delved into the business of the day, starting from an excerpt in her book where she reflected on the arduous task of countering the “half-truths or outright lies” circulated about her during her tenure at the agency. Consequently, as rumours swirled surrounding her removal from the NPA, impacting her reputation and relationships, Usman felt compelled to tell her own side of the story.

Her determination also emanated from the lessons instilled in her by her late father during her childhood. Fondly describing herself as a daddy’s girl, Bala Usman spoke of the values he ingrained in her from a young age, including the significance of legacy and the importance of maintaining an untarnished reputation.

“My father was very strong in making us own our space,” she said. “He discussed and engaged with us in whatever we were doing. Whether it makes sense or not. So at a very young age, we understood the value of thinking, the value of debating and also learning to agree to disagree. You don’t have to agree with everything someone tells you. You have to question it and find out if it makes sense to you.”

In her memoir, Usman chronicles her entry into public service and her collaboration with Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai during her time at the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). She also recounts her initial collaboration with Amaechi during Muhammadu

Buhari’s presidential campaign for the 2015 elections. Despite being the one who delivered the good news of her appointment to NPA, Amaechi was also the one who began inquiries into her dealings at the agency that led to her suspension.

Bala Usman recalled how on May 5, 2021, she heard about the memos flying around about the alleged nonremittance of operating surpluses to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) by the NPA management. This led to a request by the former minister for an audit of NPA’s account. While Bala Usman always kept a clean slate, the circumvention of processes suggested a witch-hunt. It didn’t take long before she was asked to step down. A seven-month investigation was carried out and she was vindicated of the allegation of non-remittance to the CRF. However, the report that exonerated her from the allegations was never released to the public, therefore allowing the negative narrative about her dealings at the NPA foster. It is this impression that Bala Usman sought to correct with her memoir.

By sharing her story, Usman earned the admiration of the women in attendance. Given the usual way Nigerians often let sleeping dogs lie for fear of being bitten, particularly if an influential person is involved, her stroke of bravado resonated with Princess Vicky Haastrup, the MD of ENL Consortium Ltd and Chairman Sea Ports Terminal Operators’ Association of Nigeria (STOAN).

“For me, the narrative is that of courage and boldness and being able to set the record straight. She was a woman who wanted to turn things around when she was the MD. She was incredibly hard working. She was not corrupt. I can attest to her integrity. For her to have done most of the things she did particularly on controversial issues that people you know, feared to talk about. She did all of that. And of course, you know, naturally people will fight back. She didn’t really mind offending people for doing what is right. What she wanted to do is to turn things around and

do things the right way. She has given women courage to tell their story.”

One of Bala Usman’s childhood friends, Wummi Jagun, praised her principled nature and commended her for challenging stereotypes about women from the northern region.

“She’s done something for women that most people don’t do, especially when you are from the north. It is very stereotyped. You are believed to be emptyheaded. She has proved and brought the voice out that girls from the north are not empty. We’re filled with substance.”

Apart from her courage, Bala Usman is celebrated for her advocacy for women. The former Head of Communications at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Lami Tumaka acknowledged her remarkable ability to rally support for women, a feat demonstrated during her time at the NPA when she championed and empowered women regardless of their backgrounds.

“I don’t think there’s any woman more so, northern women that would not be proud of having a product, a brand, a person like Hadiza Bala Usman. Her ability to galvanise support for women is admirable. While she was at NPA, she did what has never been done before, taking up and promoting women regardless of where they came from. She is one person that solidly supports women and for that, we admire and respect her.”

Writing the book presented its challenges for Bala Usman. It required revisiting painful memories and reliving past events.

“It was a bit difficult for me because, in the process of writing the book, it was like taking me back to what happened. I found it very difficult because I was reliving the experience,” she said.

Bala Usman’s book arrives at a pivotal moment as President Buhari is about to step down from office and Amaechi, who also sought to succeed him, lost the election to Bola Tinubu. For Usman, the timing of the book release is crucial.

“There are two sides to it. On one hand, it may be seen as the wrong time but for me, it’s important to do it now so that I can set

the record straight. If you don’t write your own story, other people will write it for you. So it’s important for me to write it.”

Indeed, Bala Usman’s ability to tell her story garnered praise from readers and critics alike. The former governor of Ekiti State, Mr Kayode Fayemi who made a brief appearance at the reading was among those who admired her boldness.

“More often than not, we allow other people to tell our story in Nigeria and they would never tell that story the way it really happened. Naively too, in politics, it is always believed that our work should speak for us but then your work really does not speak for you. You have to speak for yourself, explain yourself and communicate with your various audiences in order to convey who you really are to the majority of the people who don’t even know you. They speak about you, they write about you on social media, particularly these days, and they take liberty.”

He made a clarion call for more women’s participation in politics despite the patriarchal system in Nigeria that makes it difficult for women to succeed. He however encouraged women to join public service while reminding them that such calls for a sacrifice. He equally noted the need to build a better society “in which people are not put down simply on account of the agenda.”

As Bala Usman leafed through the selected chapters, the audience’s curiosity grew. Some wanted to find out if she will serve again, to which she responded a resounding yes if given the opportunity. Others wanted advice on how to deal with a boss that impedes your growth.

To these ones, she said: “Manage your boss. It means you have to do extra work so make sure you cross all your t’s and dot all your i’s. Work harder, and follow the rules so that at the end of the day, even if he wants to penalise you, it will be difficult to do so.”

As the event at the bookstore drew to a close, attendees lined up to have their copies of ‘Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority’ signed by Usman, and of course taking pictures with her to keep as mementoes. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of admiration and gratitude for her trailblazing achievements and her determination to set the record straight.

President Tinubu (left) in handshake with Bala-Usman

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Mele Kyari’s Swift Efforts Bola Tinubu: A King Maker’s Final Journey to the Throne

Without question, motivational speakers in Nigeria have obtained a new lease on their careers following the inauguration of Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s 16th President. His journey to this position was fraught with many hurdles and obstacles. However, because the man’s gaze was focused and his heart unshaken, he climbed to the peak of leadership in Nigeria.

Say what you will about the emergence of President Tinubu, but even his staunchest critic has to admit that the man’s vision is clear. After all, how many individuals have been able to become president 10, 20, or 30 years before the time and took active steps towards reaching this goal? For Tinubu, one might say that everything he has done up to this point has been to clinch the position. Now that he has arrived there, he has nothing left to aspire for but the historical acknowledgement of being the best president Nigeria ever saw.

Long before Tinubu was a senator or governor, he had it in mind to serve Nigeria

The new era is upon us in Nigeria and things are getting heated up very fast. Much is expected of the new President, Bola Tinubu. Considering the needed urgency of these expectations, people are very sensitive about everything he does. This is why the recent promptings of Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) are all well-timed and worthy of commendation.

It is no secret that the fuel subsidy policy has been forced to pass away. During his inauguration, President Tinubu reminded Nigerians of the plans of the former administration to put an end to the policy, creating avenues to better serve Nigerians from the revenue to be preserved from the subsidy deal. Although Tinubu means well, the people panicked, translating into long queues in filling stations and continuing rising prices of fuel.

However, Kyari has stepped into the situation and has started to assure Nigerians that the queues will soon disappear along with the perceived scarcity of fuel. According to him, once considerations have been addressed for buyers and marketers, thus checkmating every possible lapse and oversight, the issues will be resolved naturally, bringing much relief to everyone involved.

Kyari also took time to explain some of the delays in the proceedings. According to him, the subsidy arrangement which is now mentioned in the past tense has affected the functioning of NNPC recently. Although this more easily reflects on the federal government than on NNPC, Kyari is confident that they can work things out for the betterment of Nigerians worrying over the difficulties arising from queues at filling stations and unreasonable fuel prices.

Kyari’s reassurance has proved useful. Following how this worked out the last time something like this happened, it is obvious that the man has the ears of the people. No wonder he did not delay before making efforts to allay fears and make active moves to change things for the better.

The nightmare often witnessed upon the change of state governments has started in Kano State. With Abdullahi Ganduje out of the picture, the new Governor, Abba Yusuf has taken over and is currently establishing his turf. If there is going to be any immediate casualty to the change of government, it would be borne by the allies of the

as a whole. These were back in the days of politician, aristocrat, and businessman, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, General Sani Abacha, and even notable political giants, Abraham Adesanya and Ayo Adebanjo. Tinubu must have seen the burden of governance and the delicate balance of mastery required to effectively get Nigeria onto a relentless march of progress. As such, Tinubu contested for Lagos State Governor in 1999 and won. This marked the beginning of a life filled with masterful strokes of brilliance in selecting the right persons for jobs and having them establish a culture of excellence and patriotism. Currently, with so many point men in place to promote and encourage good work, Tinubu has started to lay the foundations for a historic reputation. With one hundred steps to the throne, the man has left deep hollows in the minds of his rivals. Only time will show his brilliance and history record his virtues.

Fresh Battles Between Abba Yusuf and Ganduje … As New Governor Set to Go After Ganduje’s Men

former governor. Yusuf has not delayed in immediately laying waste to the vestiges of power that are one way or another linked to his predecessor. While critics are wondering whether or not this is the work of a well-placed captain or the polished strokes of a political mastermind, Ganduje’s people have already started to suffer.

The new governor has directed several law enforcement agencies to seize several assets supposedly tied to Ganduje and his allies. These assets, which include schools, religious and cultural sites, hospitals and clinics, graveyards and green areas, and along the city walls of Kano, are no longer under the control of Ganduje with the new governor accusing his administration of having plundered public property in the form

Triple Celebrations for Gov Abiodun

Contrary to the arguments of the English Catholic historian, politician, and writer, John Acton, great men are not always bad men. For Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, these words are just right. The month of May particularly demonstrated the hands of providence in the life of this man, highlighting him as worthy of celebration and admiration. He got three different awards: one from the people of Ogun state due to his second-term inauguration; the second from the national honour awarded by former president Muhammadu Buhari; and the third from life as the natural consequence of growing a year older. For all three, Abiodun is not the most ordinary of men.

His second-term ambition was initially marked by disagreements with his predecessors supposedly scheming to cut down his influence

before throwing him out of the state house of power. However, that plan was foiled on account of Abiodun’s many contributions to the welfare of his people.

Meanwhile, despite zipping his bags to leave the presidential seat for President Bola Tinubu, Buhari still had the time to include Abiodun’s name in the list of people to be honoured with national awards. Thus, Abiodun got to be invested with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) award before the eyes of relatives and rivals.

Also, his 63rd birthday just happened to fall in between these events. With him tottering on that edge between late youth and early agedness, Abiodun has doubtlessly increased in wisdom and is in an even better frame of mind to make even greater contributions to Ogun than he did in the past.

of auctions and sales.

Everybody with a knack for these things understands that Yusuf is trying to clean out the state and clear out every influence or power that Ganduje might retain despite being out of power. Although this is not a rule, it is something that many successors do when they get in, especially in cases where said successors are rivals of their predecessors.

In the months to come, Yusuf will likely do much more than just seize assets sold off by the Ganduje administration. There are even talks about Yusuf reversing policies implemented by his predecessor, including the possible reestablishment of the former Emirate.

Whether Yusuf will succeed in his game in the first three months of government remains to be seen. Nevertheless, with Rabiu Kwankwaso behind him, the odds are stacked against Ganduje.

Tobi Lawal: Matchless Exploits at Lagos Building Investment

area of controversy and suspicion, it is a fact that the man has done and continues to do much for the company over which he is MD, Lagos Building Investment.

proving himself to be one such giant for others in the Nigerian economy to follow. Although the narrative of Lawal is much more skewed to the

It was not long ago that Lawal was dragged online and offline for the issue of collapsing buildings in Lagos State. From that time on, some of the people that are new to the life of popular and established MDs of Lagos came to know about him. However, considering his track record and the many miles of personal accomplishments behind Lawal, many of these people found him admirable and worthy of attention.

With Lawal, one sees a man that is doing nothing short of the best in the dispensation of duty. Lagos Building Investment, since Lawal took over in 2019, has had its work cut out for it. This is the first area of Lawal’s good work—getting the staff of the agency to recognise the operative scale and importance of their work.

Lawal has been able to achieve just this. Furthermore, he has gotten Lagos Building Investment out of obscurity and into the light by sharpening its strategic approach to projects. Today, the company has far more visibility concerning its operations than it did before Lawal took over.

Kyari

Tinubu

Yusuf

Isaac Newton, the man credited with so many scientific exploits once explained that the reason he was able to accomplish so much was that he stood on the shoulders of giants. In more ways than one, Tobi Lawal is

Having individuals to look up to is one of the greatest privileges in human life. Such individuals not only serve as ceilings for aspirations but also assist in clearing out obstacles. This is what the late Maryam Babangida was to many Nigerian and African women. Now, her daughter, Aisha Babangida has taken up the charge and is doing much better than anyone could have envisaged.

The office of a nation’s First Lady is peerless. In Nigeria where there is much respect for leaders, this office has no equal in the heart of the average Nigerian. When the late Maryam occupied the office, she set the tone for this regard, contributing so much to Nigerian women that she is forever remembered as the first First Lady to rouse the hearts of Nigerians.

Perhaps the biggest gift that First Lady Maryam left behind is her project, Better Life Programme for the African Rural Woman (BLPARW). This project has essentially become the standard for women’s empowerment through formal education and entrepreneurship training in West Africa. Moreover, thanks to the continuing work of Aisha, the initiative has expanded in scope to cover more of the lives of Nigerian and African women, transforming the lives of beneficiaries in ways never before seen.

There is no arguing how much

From Maryam to Aisha Babangida: Gifts to Nigerian and African Women

Where is Ladi Adebutu?

There is a reason the word ‘prominence’ has to do with being popular and well-known. It is a state that invisible and prone-to-shadow people cannot accomplish no matter how they try. Unfortunately, this is a quality that critics say is pulling further and further away from a former top Ogun politician, Oladipupo Adebutu. After the gubernatorial election in the state which saw his ambition ground to dust, Adebutu has taken to the shadows once again.

contribution has been made by Aisha. She is not only fulfilling the obligation of a daughter to her mother in overseeing the work of BLPARW and sharpening it; she has also found that thing that motivated her mother to establish the initiative in the first place, going so far as creating other initiatives on the same level as BLPARW and

with similar objectives.

At the end of the day, one can conclude that former Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida helped bring these two women, Aisha and her late mother, to the centre stage. For that, many are grateful and remain in awe of the mother-and-daughter pair.

Sad Exit … Life and Death of Raymond Dokpesi

Human life can only mean so much. In light of time and the eventual sword of death hanging over the heads of people, one might succumb to fear and live a mediocre life. Or one can live as victoriously as Raymond Dokpesi, leaving stories for others to be inspired by. Although he could have lived more meaningful years, the bells are tolling for Dokpesi, a man who pulled down the curtains of communication for others to learn from and gave us Africa Independent Television (AIT).

The Chairman of Daar Communications was many things to many people, including a media mogul whose influence far exceeded that of his peers. Although his beginnings were small, Dokpesi lived courageously and afterwards succumbed to the cold hands of death.

According to reports, Dokpesi has been battling with illness for a while. In February, it was reported that he suffered

a stroke but survived. Although he seemed to be recovering bit by bit after the incident, on Monday, May 29, 2023, he collapsed while exercising on a treadmill.

Condolence messages continue to roll out to Dokpesi’s family, noting how the media industry in Nigeria would not have been what it is without his contributions. These words are true. It is to his credit that the private sector was able to dominate the industry in the early days, especially after getting the nod of the government. That was how AIT came to be and many others followed.

Compared to his peers, Dokpesi was humble. He did not allow his popularity to get to his head. Even as a political figure, he maintained the dignity deserving of his status and always won over his rivals with reason. In his death at 71, he remains a figure worthy of admiration.

The people of Ogun are known for being sharp and unreserved about their intentions. Thus, when Prince Dapo Abiodun was reelected to lead the state, it was obvious to outsiders that the choice was made after much consideration. It also indicated, as has been alleged by political analysts, that the people of Ogun do not have much faith in Adebutu. It is on record that Adebutu has lost more than one election. During the last one, he came behind Prince Abiodun. The figures were especially eyeopening: Abiodun scored 276, 298 votes while Adebutu had 262, 383 votes. With only a handful of votes between them, Adebutu had no choice but to go to court alleging foul play.

Since that election, Adebutu has taken to hiding while alleging that there are threats to his life. Even more recently, reports came that Adebutu had fallen into the radar of the police who were after him due to a buying allegation against him to the tune of N2 billion. Thus, things are not exactly easy for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) man.

So, where is Adebutu? That is a question that one needs to ask since the police reportedly remain adamant about investigating the accusation against Adebutu.

Mix-ups are not very common in the civil service, at least not at the high level. However, it appears that this usually rare occurrence has raised its head and welcomed the appointment of Adepoju Wura-Ola as the acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) into its fold. After all, with her appointment, she also has to consider her retirement which is reported as originally scheduled for the day after her appointment.

Mixed Feelings for Adepoju Wura-Ola

status.

The mix-up in the days of the appointment and retirement of Adepoju seems like a cruel joke. But it does not appear intended. For one thing, her predecessor, Idris Isah, had to leave the position after exhausting his extended stay. Second, her appointment to the NIS top seat came as one of the last-minute doings of former President Muhammadu Buhari before leaving the seat of power. Thus, Adepoju’s new appointment is just as things should be, especially because she was the NIS Deputy Comptroller General before the new boost in Wura-Ola

How Lanre Bamisebi Became the New ‘Whiz Kid’ in IT World

Having a diligent, passionate, and talented individual as a model is always a good thing. This is one of the advantages of Lanre Bamisebi in the current world of information technology (IT). With his accumulation and natural knack for industry, Bamisebi is the archetypal figure for a balanced IT career mixed with experience working with other people, and being recognised by those that know him as a problem fixer.

Bamisebi is not a normal entrepreneur. Apart from a wide breadth of industryextensive experiences, Bamisebi also has a social presence that allows him to interact with all kinds of people across the African continent. Since emerging on the scene about 20 years ago, Bamisebi has managed to build such a strong track record that he is now highly sought

after and considered to be an established hegemon in IT in Nigeria.

For many people, Bamisebi only gained prominence when Access Bank appointed him as its Executive Director of IT and Digitalization. However, Bamisebi was already doing amazing things before that appointment. For example, he was the MD of the Fintech arm of Equity Bank, Finserve Africa, as well as the Group Director for IT & Operations for Equity Group Holding Limited (EGHL), Kenya. Moreover, long before Access Bank noticed him, the defunct Diamond Bank Plc had Bamisebi over as the Group Chief Information Officer, a position he did so well at that he left the bank as a Deputy General Manager.

So, when it comes to Bamisebi, one must consider industries. Despite his superior grasp of all things IT, Bamisebi has proved

Interestingly, some people care about Adepoju so much that they got her original appointment letter and found that she was born on July 13, 1963, and was taken up by NIS on May 31, 1988, at the age of 25. Moreover, the alleged letter also had it spelled out that Adepoju is supposed to retire on May 31, 2023, making her years in the service a total of 35 years. And it just so happened that her appointment to the peak position of NIS came a few days before her retirement.

Currently, people have their hands under their chins, waiting to see whether or not Adepoju would be made to honour the terms of her employment. Although it may not constitute a big issue in the long run, one cannot be too sure about these things.

Happy moments as Oyo Speaker, Wife Welcome New Baby

Until all lands collapse into the sea and the clouds are exiled to another planet, the birth of a human being will remain a very joyous occasion. It is thus no surprise that bells of rapture and euphoria are ringing all over the household of the Speaker of the Oyo State Assembly, Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin. With the new birth, Ogundoyin, his wife, and his relatives have a reason to be grateful to God for their lives.

The couple welcomed the newborn on May 18, 2023. Delighting his parents to no end, the newborn was named after his late grandfather, Adeseun Ogundoyin on May 25. The new addition to the Ogundoyin family is sure to grow into another reason for the entire household to drown in pride.

The newborn to the Ogundoyin clan is cherished even more because he is filling up the void left behind by his grandmother, the matriarch of the Ogundoyin family that passed away in March 2023 at the age of 63. The mother of the Speaker, Yeye Justina Ogundoyin was a well-known and highly regarded businesswoman and socialite. Although she was expected to be present when her grandchild came into this world, nobody has a perfect grasp of these things.

himself to be valuable in multiple roles. This is why he is as much a hegemon in IT as he is in talent management and development or consultancy. Moreover, with his experience from serving across 22 African nations, Bamisebi can be considered an adept of excellence and relevance.

In addition to the arrival of the newborn, the Ogundoyins are preparing to have a wedding in the household in the person of Mama Tina’s son, Adetoye Ogundoyin. Thus, the newborn of the Speaker came at just the right time, first filling up the void left behind by his mother and then preparing the Ogundoyin household in joy to welcome his uncle’s bride into the family.

Late Maryam Babangida

Aisha

Late Dokpesi

Bamisebi

Remi, Folashade, Seyi: Meet the Tinubus

When he emerged, what we got was not just a President but ‘presidents.’ We really don’t know the wahala we have entered o. So, for the first time in the history of our nation we will now have a core power base and other anchor power outlets led by these three. Remi today is the most accomplished First Lady ever. She has worked very hard at attaining very critical positioning in the system. A sitting third-term senator with a strong grasp of power and a clear understanding of influence. She will not be like her predecessors who were better off doing those soft things like visiting orphanages and disturbing Nigerians over rumours that their husbands wanted to marry a new wife.

This our own new first lady is a first lady of timber and calibre. You can already see her seated firmly with the President and the Vice President complete with her ADC at meetings with NNPC and CBN bosses, discussing this fuel matter. She will not be pushed to the sideline and Nigerians had better wake up to the reality of a Remi Tinubu in the seat of power. It is looking like we

have finally gotten a first lady that we truly deserve. A no-nonsense one, with sense and purpose. She will put mouth in everything and make sure she gets her way. The cabal will start and end with her.

Now the comical one emerges. A few days after the swearing in, reports emerged everywhere of Nigeria now getting a new Iyaloja of the Federation. I laughed and nearly pee for body. This one will now come with a motorcade and siren o. Her picture will now be at the entrance of every market nationwide and every trader will have no choice than to recite the national pledge every morning, facing her official portrait before they start the business of the day. Make no fool of yourselves and be looking down at our First Daughter. She is as influential as they come. Very powerful, a grassroots mobilizer and very strategic. She will be doing her Iyaloja things very far away from Remi because any attempt to fly near there na chicken suya we go see our Iyaloja turn into. Seyi is the third in the tripod. As we

were voting for papa, we were also voting for pikin, mama and sister. Seyi has over the years carefully built businesses, leveraging on his status, pushed into youth mobilisation and has kept a level head. I follow him on IG and can see that he has tried to send a signal of humility always going around with the black face cap and beard, cutting the image of a Marxist. But he remains one of the greatest capitalists in the country, controlling swaths of strategic economic sectors in Lagos. The belief is that this would be extended nationwide if not globally with the bigger mandate he now has. During the elections, he played his own role very well. Flew around, joined and organised rallies, had meetings, worked on youths leveraging on his influence over celebrities and generally was a soft power.

Seyi is the first son and will be a very powerful first son too. His picture will also adorn offices and we will also be reciting the national pledge as we stare at his portrait. Nigeria, w elcome the new Royal Family. Na God hand we dey now.

NLC, SUBSIDY AND OTHER SMALL STORIES

Fuel subsidy is gone. That was the newly manufactured President in his inaugural speech. He didn’t even get home to bathe and order his favourite amala after the ceremonies that Nigerians did their usual thing. Immediately marketers entered their hoarding mode and queues started pulling up.

By Monday, President Tinubu had entered the dubious record books of being the very first President to start his first working day with a major crisis in his hands. Queues for fuel, 600% jump in transport fares and its concomitant negative effect on transportation and foodstuff costs. Funnily, all the three major contestants for the Presidency had at some point or the other stated very clearly that they will take out the ‘evil’ subsidy. Even me, as I sit down here, I support the thing sha. So, the noise that is coming out of the whole matter is one kind in my eye.

As we resume our national pastime of analysing and discussing and fighting over fuel subsidy, NLC jump in with their usual mumu talk. Ohhhh this is a blow against the Nigerian people — they screamed. How can you disrespect the NLC like this, they continued? Why were we not consulted, why do this without

palliatives? They whined like a baby that had just had a nipple yanked off their mouth.

For me, these NLC people will continue to be an irritating distraction on this matter. We do not need a horde of people who have passed their sellby dates to be pulling us over the place as we attempt to look very critically at this matter.

The subsidy is a huge drain. We can no longer afford it and it must go. But in going, can we afford a free float in petroleum pricing? I have been told by industry insiders that the true landing cost of PMS is above N500. By the time you add other associated costs including distribution we may be retailing at over N600.

So, the effect on the man on the street, small business and the general economy will be devastating. But then again at about 60 million daily usage but a subsidy regiment of about 100 million with the excess being smuggled out, we have to calm down and critically look at this thing without the irritation of an emotional NLC. Furthermore, we have not talked about the issue of deregulation. Are we removing subsidy and deregulating or are we still going to cap pricing? Are we going to open the space and democratise the operations? Are we going to take in more players and then strengthen regulation? Should NNPC

or whatever government body still be a sole player? These and many more questions need to be answered. Then very importantly, are we going to look at reforms? Blocking the leakages within the system so that the money we are saving from this removal will not disappear somewhere else and create a new set of billionaires.

We need less government; we need full deregulation. We must allow for demand and supply to find its equilibrium without the bottlenecks that government inefficiency brings to the table. But much more importantly, we need a government that will take a robust over the top look at all of the ramifications of this matter in reaching a consensus that will attempt to benefit all sides.

This is where NLC in its configuration or membership cannot play. How many Nigerian workers do they really represent? Let’s be truthful. Majority of workers do not even earn a living on platforms under their torn umbrella. Do they even understand the issues, if not that the fuel thing is biting even me, I would have laughed at that their statement? Going to quote Tinubu of yesteryears on the issue is what na? I don’t understand, so someone cannot look at a matter and make a strategic U-turn if he now sees better facts or has a better outlook?

Mbok NLC should ‘geraway’, like we say it in Shomolu. Thank you.

DAUDA LAWAL: A TRILLIONAIRE IN POWER

Ok, I have looked for this news item in ‘serious’ media outlets but I no see. The news however is everywhere that this ‘bobo’ has declared about N9 trillion in assets and cash. This is the new Governor of Zamfara State. Someone screamed that he is richer than Dangote. That is a pipe dream because what I have seen is that in dollars that is only $2 billion which is chicken change where me and Dangote are sitting.

So immediately I saw the report, I did a quick background check on him and saw that up until recently he was a staff of First Bank of Nigeria and only just got elevated into the Board from where he left to set up an asset management firm where he was said to be managing assets for people with his partners.

If this news report is fact, then Zamfara State is in for a very powerful ride. Kai! All baba needs to do is cede just 10% of his huge wealth to the state and stop wailing that his predecessor left an empty treasury. Who will leave full treasury with this kind money that you are commanding?

Akinsanya a.k.a. MC Oluomo Utomi

Lawal

Tinubu

Seyi

Folasade

Remi

You see now, my state of Akwa Ibom will not look for this kind person to be Governor ooo, it is per hour hotel owner that we went to go and elect who has now come to declare happy hour for us. Abi.

Congratulations my brother and much more importantly, congratulations Zamfara State, your governor will replace fuel subsidy from his pocket. No more tears there abeg. Kai. N9 trillion? I don die.

PROF PAT UTOMI: A PRINCIPLED DILEMMA

I will pick my words. You know you and only two other people have ever written a rejoinder on my write ups. So, I will really take my time to choose my words as I write to you this morning as I no get power for rejoinder. In fact, I am typing very slowly so that I don’t make any mistakes.

Oya, here it goes. I am hearing on the Duke summit that you are baba’s ‘son’ and as such you might be getting an appointment in a government of ‘national’ something. Like I said, I am typing very slowly and choosing my words. My heart is pounding and my chest is shaking. I am sure my BP is rising, but I will still talk. If this is true, you must as a matter of principle reject the appointment. Do not worry, if Nigeria didn’t collapse during Buhari’s eight years, nothing go do us. If we do not have you on the economic team, or in any position, it cannot worse pass this. Afterall condom is now N1,500. By next week, it will reach N3,000 the way we are going.

You were, and to the best of my knowledge of the Labour Party. A presidential aspirant I suppose, and who I hear stepped down for Peter Obi and provided a very strong bulwark for his campaign and a moral compass. Obi is in court challenging the elections, let us even wait to see the outcome of that one before we accept appointment. If you accept any appointment in this government, you will be giving Obi a mortal moral blow like Kingibe did to MKO and lost relevance.

Like I stated, all I have heard is gist and if it is not true, please ignore me and don send rejoinder o. But if it is true, please use church mind and handle this my talk. Thank you sir, I apologise in advance.

BABAJIDE ‘ETEKAMBA’ SANWO-OLU INAUGURATION

His Excellency walked towards my table where I was sitting with the Duchess and was eyeing one ‘yellow’ Yoruba woman. You know the most beautiful Yoruba women are found at owambe parties. The way they will come out, the make-up, the gele, the uplifted bra, the padded buttocks and the carriage, you will just be opening your mouth. That was how Duchess just nudged me and I looked up and it was High Chief Babajide ‘Etekamba’ Sanwo-Olu in front of me. I have given him an Ibibio name. I will tell you guys the meaning and why later.

He smiled at me, “Duke how are you?” I said “Very well Your Excellency, well-done and congratulations.” He said “thank you.”

I requested to take a picture with him and he obliged me. I stood up in my wrapper. The thing had been threatening to fall down. You know I didn’t wear anything under because my doctor had said I had to be freeing my balls because of testicular cancer. So, I gave His Excellency my phone and started retying the wrapper while the Duchess ran to his side.

When I was through, His Excellency took a very brilliant

BLUES

selfie picture of us. The way His Excellency held my phone, I come dey suspect whether he don do ‘wait and get’ photographer in front of High Court for Igbosere. The way he handled the phone, the angles and the picture quality, I marvelled o. He gave me back my phone and called me ‘bushman’ as he laughed and walked away.

You see, I am enamoured by Etekamba Sanwo-Olu. People do not understand, they still say, “how can you dislike Tinubu so much and love his son so much?” My response is always ‘didn’t people love Absalom and hate David?” Mbok leave me o. The man is relatable, he understands the issues, he is open to advice and he is working. Simple! I enjoyed my day at the inauguration, met a lot of beautiful people, like the Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi, who helped us into the TBS venue which was jam packed and my sister Nonny, who has still not told me her secret and why they allowed her into the governors podium and kicked out a whole Duke of Shomolu complete with wrapper and no underwear. Life. Kai.

I do not support the death penalty. But this one, a student, for what? I cannot even cry as I am filled with anger and raw hatred for this man. Kai.

YENI KUTI: GOD BLESS YOU

I have entered this matter again and the reason is simple. Segun Adefila and Okwechime are still abusing me o. Remember that I had written something on Fela and Seun and the whole Lagos stood up to abuse me. Even Efe, who I have not seen in 20 years, looked for my number and called me and said, “oh boy come and see how dem finish you for one Whatsapp group.”

All these people crying more than the bereaved just tire me, I swear. So, I had said, let’s leave the musical and artistic genius of Fela and look at the dark underside. What kind of a father was he? What kind of parental upbringing did Seun have for such a rampage? Can we gently look at the generational contempt for authority from grandmother to father to son? That is all I said o and dem come expose my ‘craw craw’ yansh all over the place.

The next minute, Yeni Kuti, his first daughter came out in an interview to say, “Fela was not a good father. He called us useless children.” I shouted eureka! See all these people crying more than the bereaved. The real owner of the papa has come out to say what she really feels and knows.

I am sure if you call my children now and say, your dad is an evil genius, he is known worldwide for eating afang and abusing people on newspaper pages, what kind of father was he? The answer you will get will make you come and slap me, I swear. Nobody is doubting Fela’s genius. So that one that Mrs Dawodu came at me and said “how dare you tarnish Fela, who are you?” That one no count. I respect Fela, I bow to his genius but what kind of a father was he? What role did his parental genius play in that tirade we all saw on the bridge. Abeg hungry don catch me. I don go. Thank you.

MC OLUOMO: I FEEL YOUR POWER

Shebi they started abusing me again when I released my picture with MC Oluomo. I had met him at the inauguration and felt that I should at least take a picture with him.

RAHMON

ADEDOYIN: A WICKED WAY TO DIE

When the story hit, it was gruesome. A postgraduate student in Ife going to write his exams checked into a hotel and was killed. The man had done nothing wrong but to try to help himself and better his life in a bid to contribute more to this country and lost his life in such a hurried way in the process.

Kai! I was weak and actually cried o. I really cried o. Why would anybody do this? Then it got more interesting. The proprietor of the hotel and a well-known and prominent citizen was implicated and arrested. He was the founder of the Oduduwa University in Osun State. The other day, on my way to Ekiti to beg Aare Afe Babalola, I stopped opposite the university to eat amala and goat meat. He was found guilty for the wicked crime and sentenced to death by hanging with his accomplice. The receptionist was also sentenced to two years in prison. I don’t even know how to interpret this one. Ritual killing for money? For position? Why would you take a life for any reason? Why would you take lives for what we have heard, there are plenty of lives lost in this sad tale?

As I watched him in court as his sentence was pronounced, I didn’t even feel pity, which was strange as

Immediately I sent out the pictures, they started o. “Edgar, how can you? Edgar, a man that you abused during the elections? Edgar, I am ashamed of you. Edgar, this is not good for your brand.” My brother – I no go call him name — called me and gave me a good blocking.

Then fuel scarcity hit. I drove to Fadeyi and the place was like a madhouse. Kai! I sent for the CSO of the filling station and said, see I am from MC, see my picture, immediately they took me into the station. Gave me coke to drink and with diplomatic alacrity, my tank was filled. They gave me their numbers and begged me to kindly tell baba that “emi CSO ni Fadeyi ni o.” I said don’t worry ‘ma so fun’.

Mbok till queues disappear, MC na my baba o. Make una no vex. Thank you.

JOSEPH

EDGAR II: YOU ARE A MAN

Please let me quickly seize this opportunity to congratulate my son Joseph Olusola Edgar, on his recent graduation from the Savannah College of Arts in Georgia. I praise the Lord who gave us the strength on this fouryear journey for it was not easy.

I also would like to thank the First Daughter -Chantal - who gladly left her studies in the UK to represent me and her mother at the graduation ceremony as a result of our inability to secure dates at the embassy, let alone visa.

I just hope say I no dey visa ban list. Kai! God is wonderful. Thanks.

Sanwo-Olu

Oil and Gas Guru, Tunde Afolabi’s Staying Power

Ex-Foreign Affairs Minister, Geoffrey Onyeama’s Eloquence

That the immediate-past Minister for Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, is one man that is well endowed with so many qualities is stating the obvious. Intelligent and witty, Onyeama’s eloquence leaves admirers stunned.

Rarely engaging in public speaking, Onyeama however never wastes an opportunity to address a crowd. He does this with panache, spilling pearls of wisdom that speak volumes of his cosmopolitan outlook.

A few days ago, this tall and handsome dude held his audience spellbound at the cocktail held in his honour by the Non-Career Ambassadors at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

At the event, the former minister showcased his brilliance, dexterity as well as an excellent grasp of diplomatic issues around the world, although this did not come as a surprise to many that truly know him. This speech, as revealed,

earned him thunderous applause from the people around.

Society Watch gathered that at the occasion, Onyeama was praised to the high heavens by the members of the non-career ambassadors for his huge role and his contributions to the ministry which were considered unprecedented.

On hand to honour Onyeama were a large number of Nigeria’s Ambassadors as well as other diplomats from other countries, such as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Dr. Maureen Tamuno, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico; Adejare Bello, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic; Tukur Yusuff Buratai, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa; Haruna Manta, Ambassador Bassey Archibong, Nigeria’s ambassador to Netherland and Dr Eniola Olaitan Ajayi, among several others.

Befitting Honour for Businessman, Nasiru Danu

It is doubtful if there is anyone in the oil and gas industry today that is more experienced than Chief Tunde Afolabi. This is the reason many in the sector call him the oil and gas veteran. In fact, he is considered an encyclopaedia of sorts due to his vast knowledge about the sector.

In spite of the vagaries of the business, his company Amni Petroleum Company, one of the most successful indigenous oil production companies in Nigeria, has remained afloat with a lot of success stories. It was awarded the Okoro Field and Setu Field located in OML 112 in shallow water offshore Nigeria, as part of the Nigerian government’s indigenous licensing programme. The total gross production at the Okoro field in 2013 was 6.5 million barrels of oil, representing a gross average daily rate of 18,041 barrels per day.

Interestingly, in a society where many successful men have reportedly allowed fame, success and sometimes stardom to turn their heads, Afolabi recognises that only God is the unseen hand behind his success story; and he submits absolutely to His will. Of course, he also recognises that hard work pays, so he loathes laziness. A devout Christian, he spends his spare time in total worship of God. According to sources, the man who is said to live a disciplined lifestyle doesn’t make any move or take any step without seeking divine guidance. His armour against failure is ceaseless prayers. However, despite his connection and influence, those meeting the guru for the first time would be amazed at his humility.

Afolabi, a silent billionaire, has lifted a number of less privileged members of the society; his philanthropy beggars description. He is also known as an ardent supporter of churches within the Anglican denomination. The professional geologist with over 40 years of oil and gas exp loration and production started his career with Texaco Inc, New Orleans Louisiana in 1974 after he received his a B.A Geology in 1973 from Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster Pennsylvania USA, and an M.Sc. in Geology in 1975 from Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, US. He later joined Mobil Inc in Dallas, Texas in 1979.

A member of the Ameri can Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG), Afolabi, is a past President of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) and a council member of the Nigerian Association of Indigenous Production and Exploration Companies (NAIPEC).

Nightlife King, Frank Okamigbo, is one man who is full of life. The humble and highlyconnected socialite needs no introduction to those who understand nightlife in Lagos. From his days at K-Place in Victoria Island to Club Papas at The Place in Lekki, both in Lagos, Frank commands respect and loyalty.

With his excellent skill in human relations and club management, his foremost hangout became the melting pot for silver spoons, celebrities and media personalities. Despite an obviously robust and enviable relationship that existed between Kola Adewale, the owner of The Place chain— and Frank, which made many swim to the club like bees, the beat stopped beating abruptly in 2018.

Contrary to some reports that swirled around back then, the two gentlemen were said to have agreed to halt operations for them to retool, allow Frank to handle “personal things” and then

You would definitely not have made any mistake if you decided to write an epistle about his elevating compendium stories. Despite not being a random rabble-rouser, he no doubt belongs to the notable class of great achievers in Nigeria of today, having managed his business empire efficiently and effectively for years and has also contributed immensely to the growth of the country as well as his immediate environment.

Anyway, Nasiru Danu does not court cheap publicity. He does his own thing without expecting any reward from anywhere. He is totally committed to a life of service to humanity, to which he has dedicated his entire life. The prominent businessman, last week was honoured alongside 339 notable personalities nominated on merit by the Federal government to receive national honours.

He was nominated for Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). The award is not surprising to many who are aware of the brainy

man who has succeeded in all his endeavours in the past.

Apart from his track record in business, Danu has a burning and unquenchable desire for humanity. Aside from his exalted rank as a billionaire, the deep-pocket man’s philanthropic gesture is worth reporting.

However, he loathes people singing his praise over such acts of humaneness. He is not the regular kind of billionaire that calls for publicity over little donations.

Positively affecting the lives of the less privileged is paramount to Danu. He has successfully impacted the needy through his foundation known as The Nasiru Haladu Danu Medical Mission Foundation.

The foundation has engaged in philanthropic projects like the free medical mission in Dutse, Jigawa State where about 5,000 people including men, women and children received medical attention from American medical specialists.

Nightlife King, Frank Okamigbo Back with a Bang!

return with a bang. Five years on, Frank is back on the scene with an improved version of the old phenomenally Club Papas. Once again, the gregarious joy giver is returning in partnership with Kola to deliver another round of unimaginable nightlife pleasure at a brand new location in Ikota along Lekki-Epe Expressway.

It was gathered that the new joint is a very massive place with everything already set for a glamorous opening in June. Frank, who is also a top player in the real estate business, also runs the Papas Foundation, an NGO that caters to the needs of the destitute and other underprivileged people in society. The nightlife impresario is a United Nations Youth Ambassador for Peace and Africa Youth Parliament Ambassador for Youth Development in Africa.

Olori Atuwatse’s Admirable Humanity

For the delectable and very affectionate wife of the Olu of Warri, Olori Atuwatse III, creating a better environment for the less privileged in society regardless of the cultural differences has been her primary objective and major goal. Little wonder the very humane and quiet queen has been at the forefront of this noble project, and she is not resting anytime soon as she has committed herself to this as long as she remains on the surface of this earth.

Society Watch gathered that the beautiful queen penultimate Tuesday inaugurated and donated a project tagged: “Love Garden and PlayGround” to Ikengbuwa Primary School, as part of her efforts to encourage play-based learning among the pupils in Warri Kingdom, Delta State.

It was revealed that this is not her first time extending her milk of kindness to schools in the community. As disclosed, she did the same in October 2022, when she spearheaded a week of training, dubbed: “train the trainer,” another educational project which retrained teachers from elementary schools to learn, unlearn, and relearn.

It was learnt that the project was her desire to

ensure that children are encouraged to come to school, learn and also contribute to the quality of learning and innovation in teaching students.

Her Majesty noted that quality education

was the foundation of the growth and development of any society and so is a critical sector to focus on. The project would not only afford the children the opportunity to learn but to plant and harvest crops

She said that the project would also expose the pupils to other entrepreneurial skills to help prepare them for future challenges. Quality education is not solely the right of the privileged few but a right of everyone in society.

“Education is very dear to my heart. It is the foundation to the growth of any society. Our dream is that given you this love garden, children are not only learning how to plant and harvest crops, but they are also learning entrepreneurial skills. Therefore, our teachers should teach the pupils the importance of business at this very young age. They should learn commerce, agriculture and social skills which are important for growth and development,” said her Majesty.

She further expressed the hope that the playground would motivate children to not only come to school but to learn better. She urged the teachers to teach the children using the new resources as much as possible.

Olori Atuwatse

Danu

Okamigbo

Onyeama

Afolabi

ARTS & REVIEW ARTS & REVIEW

Young Artists Upcycling for a Creative Cause

As a fallout of Abuja-based Artstier’s EcoSmart workshops, an exhibition highlighting the creativity of young secondary school students with discarded materials will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday in Lagos to commemorate the International Day of the Environment. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

Artstier has undoubtedly earned its recent consistent moments in the media spotlight. So, there is no reason to begrudge this Abuja-based online marketing company its hard-earned prominence, which it owes to its contributions as a major stakeholder in the federal capital city’s burgeoning art scene.

Its soon-to-be-held exhibition, featuring over 90 works contrived predominantly from discarded and industrial waste after a series of workshops in seven secondary schools and titled Going Green, eloquently proclaims its emphasis on environmental protection. And this is the reason why the two-day event, which will hold on Tuesday, June 6 and Wednesday, June 7, at the Thought Pyramid Art Gallery in Ikoyi, Lagos, has been scheduled to coincide with the International Day of the Environment.

This Artstier’s project, conceived as EcoSmart “Imagine Green”, was designed as a sensitisation programme that targets young secondary school students with the hope of instilling a healthier environmental mindset in them. These students, who were 47 in number and were drawn from seven schools in Lagos, had participated in workshops in which their art teachers were facilitators. The company’s executive director, Obi Nwaegbe, hinges the premise behind working with teenage students for this project on their impressionability and susceptibility to change. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, and it is common sense that we work to get them to imbibe a much more eco-sensitive attitude towards the environment,” he says.

This project is also motivated by a desire to capitalise oning global demand for upcycling art as an attractive destructive behaviours.

Of course, there is also the burden of expectations that rests on Nigeria, with its huge population and its strategic position as Africa’s largest economy, to lead the charge on this globally fundamental discourse.

Before these workshops ever came into the picture, Nwaegbe, as the Artstier’s chief resident artist, had initiated this project and, with the help of his studio assistants, produced over a dozen monumental works made of discarded beverage cans stuck on boards. “When we conceived of the idea of EcoSmart, there were preceding projects from our studios already in motion. One was the quarterly residency programme in which a guest artist was invited to participate in a one-week studio session with other professional members of the community. This happened in our Abuja studios and has culminated in three completed residencies that had two renowned artists from Nigeria and one from the diaspora.”

Then, there was also a clean-up exercise that Nwaegbe embarked on with an Abuja-based non-governmental organisation. It involved the cleaning up of Usman Dam in the city’s Bwari district. “The sheer size of waste generated from that dam was quite befuddling, and when one considered the magnitude of habitat displacement and poisoning that was happening to the creatures in that river, it became imperative that something had to be done. Of course, it had to be considered that these creatures contributed to the livestock business, and therefore human livelihood was also at risk.”

With the expansion of the company’s operations through a workshop, which necessitated partnering with larger establishments with similar visions, it got a grant award project, which is designed to be an annual workshop.

This was the brief history of how the EcoSmart "Imagine Green" initiative began as a side project of the Artstier

institution and its foray into creating environmentally oriented works out of discarded materials.

Talking about the grant award from the Ford Foundation, it is meant to help facilitate the programme in 2022. “This was after a series of intense scrutinies of our work and progress to ascertain our level of commitment,” Nwaegbe policy vision, and we are in partnership with them as a part of their friendly neighbour correspondence.”

Thus, it was sometime late last year that Ecosmart by the pursuit of approvals from two educational districts

District VI, Oshodi. While District V covers four administrative zones, namely, Ajeromi/Ifelodun, the following three: Ikeja, Mushin, and Oshodi.

On September 5, last year, Artstier’s non-executive director, Mrs Ngozi Odigwe-Igbosuah, initiated correspondence with these districts. It was after the granting of approval that the next stage of the project, which was the school enlistment programme, began. Arstier had embarked on the school enlistment programme using a list of suggested schools from the districts as a guide. This led to visits to 11 schools over a three-week period. “We are working with four schools in district V, namely: Amuwomunity Secondary School, Kuje Senior Secondary School, and Oluwa Memorial Senior Secondary School,” Nwaegbe discloses.

He criticises the populace’s inclination to leave environmental matters to the government, adding that there is a need for introspection on how the individual contributes to this malaise. This is one reason why he stresses the need to raise the younger generation to religiously value the environment.

“Of course, this is a multidisciplinary question that requires multidisciplinary approaches and solutions. What we are doing at EcoSmart is to to a global concern that requires urgent and passionate intervention.”

So far, he describes the exercise as “most exhilarating and quite elucidating,” citing the enthusiasm with which the students and their facilitators, the art instructors from the several schools who

As for the exhibition, with its anticipated presentation of more than 90 works, it appears to have surpassed Artstier’s expectations. Hence, Nwaegbe kids’ inventiveness in the process.

4.

Another work by a student featuring at the exhibition

One of the works by a student featuring at the exhibition

At CORA Book Trek, Uche

Nwokedi Unveils Memoir

Yinka Olatunbosun

Araremoment of engagement was witnessed at the May edition of the monthly literary series CORA Book Trek, held on May 31 at Roving Heights Bookstore in Landmark Place, Oniru, Victoria Island. The evening reading and review session featured Uche Nwokedi’s debut memoir, ‘A Shred of Fear.’ The book review session attracted the friends and associates of the author as well as prominent members of the literary and arts communities, including culture activists Jahman Anikulapo, Wale Ojo, and Sandra Mbanefo-Obiago.

The CORABookTrek, a fortnightly author-audience interface, is a book culture in Lagos that helps to deepen literary appreciation and audience engagement with the published text.

In an atmosphere of banter and book signing, the senior advocate and author, Nwokedi, read copiously from his book, ‘A Shred of Fear’. The memoir is a childhood account of survival and hope through the trauma of war. He was seven when the war began, and he and his family would spend the next three years as refugees in their own country. The book brings dramatic events vividly to life as it tells a compelling tale of courage through a dark period.

Anchored by Nigerian writer, journalist, and Secretary General of the Committee for RelevantArt (CORA), Toyin Akinosho, the

EXHIBITION

the audience. In his introductory remarks, the author admitted to being slightly nervous at the start of the book-reading session.

“My training and practice as a lawyer allow me to be calm,’’ he began. “I was invited by Wale Ojo to contribute a chapter to the compilation of stories that we were writing about children in the Biafran war. I did my 5000 words and read it to Wale. He said, ‘This should be a book.’ I was committed to the project. Two years later, book was something I discussed with my family and my wife. She is also an avid reader. She would say, ‘What can you remember? What smell can you remember?’ I started to think of the sound and smell, and the memories came back. My challenge was to tell it in a way

that people would grasp. Each chapter has an epigraph. That is another layer of storytelling. That epigraph is taken from something that speaks to the war.”

Nwokedi further gave an insight into the socio-political context of the work and the layers of inference embedded in it.

“As some of you might know or may not know, Christopher Okigbo was part of the creative group that Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe were a part of at the University of Ibadan. One of the things that led me to start researching his poetry was a book I read. I read Ali Mazrui’s ‘The Trial of Christopher Okigbo’ in my A-levels. When I read the book, I disliked the man. He concluded in the book that Christopher Okigbo died for a needless cause. When I read the poem ‘Elegy for Alto’ by Okigbo, written shortly before he died, it was a prophetic poem where he talked about military

rule.” The author admitted that no one actually prepares for war. It is usually the climax of a series conversation in the room revolved around the issues of memory, healing. Nwokedi revealed that while writing the book, his older siblings remembered some of the war accounts that he had forgotten but decided not to include them in the book. For him, the idea was to tell his own side of the story that he still remembers. With reference to the Egyptian pilots mentioned in the book and the role they played in the Nigerian Civil War, Akinosho needed in the understanding of sociology in Nigeria. The author, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, is a principal counsel at Uche Nwokedi & Co. Aside from being a reputable lawyer, Nwokedi is also a playwright and producer. His play, ‘Kakadu the Musical, is one of the earliest world-class musicals of the 2000s be staged in South Africa’s largest theatre hall in Johannesburg. He is the creator and producer of EVE, a now-rested weekly legal soap opera that ran for three seasons. Earlier this year, CORA featured the works of three authors at the BookTreks, including Vincent Maduka’s REEL LIFE: My Years Managing Public Service Television; Simon Kolawole’s Fellow Nigerians: It’s All Politics; and Musikilu Mojeed’s The Letterman: Inside the ‘Secret’ Letters of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Didi Museum: It’s a Tale of Two Women Artists

Yinka Olatunbosun

Boundbythesame mindset to project the narratives of women and the girlchild, two female artists, Ayoola Oluwaseun Omovo and Adedoyin Adelani N. (Bello), are celebrating the human spirit through their bodies of work in the show called Vivid Delight.Aproduct of several months of research and preparation, the artists parade unique visual storytelling, drawing inspiration from the experiences of contemporary African women as well as the plight of the girl child in a patriarchal society. Adedoyin and Ayoola have both encountered Peju Layiwola and Peju Alatishe in the course of their art careers and have drawn great inspiration from them as they evolved in their respective studio practices. Indeed, Adedoyin’s silhouette embroidery works remind one of PejuAlatishe’s early silhouette oil on canvas paintings of the early and mid-2000s, which Adedoyin has never seen up until today, and they also remind one of the coloured thread works of and important member of the Oshogbo School of Art. Having been involved in art practice since 2006, Ayoola has participated in several local and international exhibitions. A part-time teacher at the French

One of the works at the exhibition

EXHIBITION

school, Ayoola traced her love for art to her childhood, precisely in elementary school. Later, she honed her craft at the Institute of Textile Technology, Art, and Design, Oregun, Lagos, where in 2002. She would proceed to the University of Benin, where she graduated in 2006, having

“There is something about black and white,’’ she said while explaining her preference for monochrome silhouette paintings at a press preview inside Didi Museum, where the works are currently showing till June 10. “It is not common in visual art. It brings back memories. A lot of people are curious about the black and white paintings.”

The graduate of the University of

Benin and a part-time art instructor at the Lycee Francais Louis Pasteur (French School) in Lagos treasures women and children and demonstrated this by capturing various female forms drawn from everyday life in rural and urban contexts.

Thecurator,MosesOhiomokhare, described her works as “a digital art form that takes a sketch and creates a silhouette of colours and forms a beautiful character.” In the Makoko Series, the slum community is portrayed as a tourist destination.

“The white people who visit have been able to capture beautiful scenery even though the residents live on water,’’ she continued. “The transportation is by boat, and the market is on water. The school. People are surviving there.

in the face of a storm. Through my work, I advocate for women because they face a lot of challenges in Africa. In the past, our parents had several children and a lot of hands to help raise them. But nowadays, you can hardly attend to a child.”

She added that a girl child should be educated, not kept behind closed doors or limited to the kitchen.

Unique for her silk embellishment, Adedoyin’s technique is spellbinding, exuding luxury and warmth. A follower of Ana Teresa Barboza’s works, the artist

On a day like this I should rise

In my voice, with a song

Even though the season is drenched with the wetness of loss

I shall lift my heavy feet to dance

For a living hero.

Refrain from Ogunde’ssong: (EnibamoAgbe,ko bawa daroAro

EnibamoAluko,ko

bawa daro osun

EbawadaroAgbeti o fo

Ebawa dara okunkun tiokun)

Thoseintimatewith Nimi

Singhiseulogy

Thoseclosetotheson ofAbonema Chanthispraise name Commiseratewith thebrokencalabash Condole on darkness thatpalls

Never, say, and never, die Nimi

You will never die

In the grateful hearts of The nation and humanity

Whom you serve In immortal humility.

Lailai to Lailai

Of womanhood at birth-pangs

But, It is your dominant commitment

To the cure of the human soul That breeds both the baby, and The human mind.

Ah, Nimi Dimkpa Briggs

The eloquence of your turn- of- phrase The redolence of your drinkable oratory

The sweetness of The agility of your sprightly jogging feet Every early mornings of your life, In ready preparatory of your pursuit And quick-thinking For work-a-day jobbery

For the survival of our land’s dream.

Lailai to lailai (Gbalagbala Olorunmaje!

Allahyasauwake!)

Inallthetongues ofyourpolygottal word-thoughts

revealed how her works were recently discovered at the residence of Prof. Ebun Clark by the curator. Her foray into the arts was almost mass communication initially. But some workshop sessions on paintings at the Lagos State Polytechnic in Ikorodu put her in the spotlight, and eventually she studied painting at the institution alongside her obligations as a mother of two. With 14 local and international exhibitions,Adedoyin recalled the circumstances surrounding her childhood and life’s ambitions.

girl child. I know what I went through—being neglected,’’ she revealed. “I fought to be educated. I trained myself to enrol at a higher institution of learning. I went to school as a mother of two children.

I try to mentor the younger generation of women to understand that even without parental backing, they can be educated.

With 12 pieces on display, Adedoyin is living her dream of projecting the narratives of women, drawing some inspiraWoman King.”

“I used the drip technique in some of the works. I am very conscious of the texture of my paintings. I mix my colours with materials to

of the two artists—though a coincidence—speaks to the message of hope that permeates every piece at the show.

So you always say In moments

Of timeless rejection of the spirit of failure; You are the man

Of timeless hope and die-less optimism--

To the assailants of your indomitable spirit.

Every good thing must happen

In our time, That, Dimkpa, is your homily,Your dictum of human Evenpossibilities in the staring and glaring Gaze of obstcles and challenges to the course; By Agents of the cave-bound-ness

Of the human nadir-You’ll rage-Lailai to Lailai!.

And so, You led as though being led In dogged love of mankind

Though we know, In virtue of your chosen calling, That your scalpel probes

Into the uteral anatomy

Neverever-die; Notevendeathcan bluryourdream Ofwhatmusthappen Tothefutureofour beleagueredland.

All the sages gather For a timeless vigil But they cannot garner A totem of regret That death must rage forever and for aye.

Yes! Emeritus Professor Briggs, Lailai to lailai Your spirit cannot die Until and even after your dreams come true, Dear friend, Since you planted the live- forever tree, Our lives are sole witnesses

To your never dieness Your never-say,and never die Forever- live, forever- be In the grateful heart Of the nation and humanity Whom you serve , In immortal humanity.

Goodnight, then, Dear leader, dear friend, dear patriot. EnibamoAgbe… Olu Obafemi.

Y

Nwokedi reading from his book

Tinubu’s New Govt and Old Challenges

On May 29, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally took up the mantle of leadership as Nigeria’s 16th President amid mixed feelings. For the opposition, his election was so heavily flawed that he should not be sworn in until all legal contests are resolved. For his allies, Tinubu’s inauguration signals the beginning of a new dawn for all Nigerians without prejudice to their political leanings.

Irrespective of feelings or perceptions Nigerians may now share, Tinubu’s inauguration presents another opportunity to chart a new path for Nigeria after eight years of socio-economic doldrums that punctuated the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. But is Tinubu really prepared for the task of rebuilding a new Nigeria, which according to former US Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. John Campbell, is already faltering on the brink?

This question is pertinent not because Tinubu’s capacity for national transformation is in doubt, but because his immediate predecessor left behind the legacies of ill performance that diverse development indicators attested to. In 2015, for instance, Nigeria’s unemployment rate was as low as 10.44 percent according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). But the figure has astronomically risen to 40.6 percent based on KPMG’s 2023 global economic outlook.

Also, the country’s unstable consumer price index, which periodically measures inflation, is another testament to Buhari’s abysmal performance. In 2015, the inflation rate was 9.01 percent as indicated in the records of the NBS. By April 2023, only 29 days before Buhari’s tenure ended, it rose to 22.22 percent.

Poverty index too, which now stands at 63 percent, remains the worst nightmare for all Nigerians. In its 2022 multidimensional poverty index, the World Bank Group claimed that at least 11.9 percent of the world’s extremely poor people live in Nigeria. By implication, no fewer than 133 million Nigerians are classified “multidimensionally poverty-stricken” under the Buhari regime.

For eight consecutive years, the economy grew sub-optimally, even slumped into recession twice, first in 2016 and later in 2020. Its suboptimal performance compounded the country’s acute fiscal crises that crippled governance at all levels and practically stifled investment flows that whetted Nigeria’s thirst for domestic and external debts, which according to the Debt Management Office, now value N46.25 trillion ( $103.11 billion).

Under Buhari, Nigeria’s development indicators were not only the issues that affected people’s livelihoods and survival. Also, the federation heavily divided along its ethno-religious fault lines, triggering self-determination agitations in the South-east (Biafra) and Southwest (Yoruba Nation); extremist violence in the North-east, farmerpastoralist conflicts in the Middle Belt and subtle ethnic cleansing in Southern Kaduna.

These are, at least minimally, gnawing socio-economic and political legacies, which Buhari bequeathed upon the new government. Now, as prophetically proclaimed on June 2, 2022, it is Tinubu’s turn to provide transformative leadership, which Senator Shehu Sani argued, is critical to terminating the era of socio-economic stagnation and pulling the federation from the brink of outright collapse.

With his promise “to serve with prejudice toward none but compassion and amity towards all,” Tinubu largely expressed readiness to

address the roots of social ills, economic doldrums and political contradictions in his inaugural speech. In the two decades, however, Nigeria has witnessed dispensations of numerous promises accompanied with little action. Now is the time for Tinubu to transform all his promises from mere undertakings to effective implementation now that all these challenges evidently place Nigeria under existential threat.

At the core of these challenges is the fear of Islamising Nigeria that the Muslim-Muslim ticket stoked across the federation, especially among non-Muslim communities in the North. Such fear, according to Secretary, Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Elder Sunday Oibe, is evident in structural marginalisation that indigenous non-Muslims have been suffering in the north for decades.

Undoubtedly, this is a thorny issue, which a global mission leader, Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam challenged the president to decisively address. Already, as analysts nationwide have observed, subsequent appointments and decisions should ultimately reflect Nigeria’s diversity and deepen socio-economic and political inclusion, around which Tinubu promised to structure his administration.

The fragility of Nigeria as a nation is an issue of grave concern, not just for its citizenry, but also for the international community. This condition is reinforced in serial global terrorism indexes that depict Nigeria as a home to violent religious extremists and a poorly governed territory where terrorist insurgencies

such as Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operate almost without let or hindrance. And their activities, as extrapolated in the Nigeria Security Tracker, cost at least 19,129 lives between June 2015 to May 2023.

Again, transforming Nigeria from a conflict-ridden nation to a stable polity will be a major test of Tinubu’s transformative leadership competence. This is so at a time when rogue non-state actors, mainly Chinese corporations and their domestic allies, are allegedly behind resource conflict escalation in the North-west arising from illicit gold exploitation, an ugly trend that the Buhari administration failed to arrest.

Perhaps, unlike all his predecessors, Tinubu fully acknowledged the enormity of the country’s internal instability that spared no geo-political zone nor state of the federation. This perhaps defines his pledge “to reform both security doctrine and its architecture.” But the president must understand what issues are; analyse approaches previously adopted; reassess the country’s security capability and understudy reasons for conflict escalation despite improved defence and security spendings.

More essentially, as former Chief of Training, Operations and Plans, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Ishola Williams succinctly pit it, Tinubu must learn from Buhari’s strategic error for over-dependence on military response to achieving a stable polity rather than embracing an eclectic approach that emphasises the significance of addressing the roots, trunks and branches of a conflict simultaneously.

Tinubu campaigned for the presidency on the records of his performance as the governor of Lagos State. For his critics, however, this claim has been an issue of national debate. But what is not contestable is the enviable outcome of the state’s public finance reforms his administration implemented between 1999 and 2007.

The reforms resulted in an unprecedented boost in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR). From N600 million in 1999, as revealed in the records of Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, the state’s IGR rose to N4.3 billion in 2003; N8.2 billion 2007; N15 billion in 2011; N18 billion in 2015; N32 billion in 2019 and N51 billion in 2023. Under 25 years, the state’s IGR recorded a 1,078 percent boost, a revenue growth no state of the federation has ever recorded.

Can Tinubu reform the country’s dysfunctional public finance system at the federal level? Obviously, as his supporters have claimed, he can. But what will be in contest this time is the approach he adopted in Lagos State. Till date, the decision of his administration to engage tax consultants still elicits public ire, especially during the electioneering. But the efficiency of the fiscal strategy, as shown in the state’s steady revenue growth, remains credible evidence that Tinubu’s capacity for functional public finance re-engineering signals an end to the country’s sub-optimal revenue performance.

The Lagos example still stokes despicable questions about the transparency of Tinubu’s tax reforms. But now as the president, he owes Nigerians the onus of anchoring every of his reforms, whether in public finance or public governance at large, to two critical democratic principles - accountability and transparency. The principles are central to attaining Tinubu’s six percent growth rate target, action plan to create one million millions annually and enduring public trust that the previous administrations could bolster.

POLITICAL NOTES Can PDP Now Cut Wike to Size?

A Federal High Court in Abuja has finally given the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) the nod to suspend or expel former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike.

In a judgment on a suit filed by Wike, prior to the 2023 general election, to seek for a court order to stop PDP from taking action against him without fair hearing, Justice James Omotosho ruled that as long as the party acts in accordance with the law, it can suspend or expel the former governor.

For fear of being expelled by the PDP for the alleged unimaginable atrocities he committed against it, the ex-governor had sued the party, its National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC) as 1st to 3rd respondents.

Recall that in the buildup to the 2023 presidential election, Wike had lost the presidential ticket of the

PDP to the formerVice President, Atiku Abubakar, and the party’s vice presidential ticket to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, and became inconsolable. With the limitless resources at his disposal which he allegedly invested heavily with reckless abandon, Wike had believed he was making waves in his aspiration to clinch the PDP ticket. However, many were displeased with his alleged ignoble conduct, which was characterised by his unrestrained verbal attacks on his fellow governors and his alleged attempts to hijack the party’s structures in their states. It was not surprising that he lost woefully to Atiku. He had initially accepted defeat and pledged his support for the former vice president after he was allegedly promised the vice presidential ticket.

But he made a U-turn and started weeping inconsolably when he lost the ticket to Governor Okowa.

With the huge resources at his disposal, he was able to mobilise four other governors to work against Atiku. Wike and his group, who pride themselves as G-5 not only played anti-party activities, they also dragged Atiku and the National Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu’s names in the mud, and ensured that the former vice president lost the presidential election.

Wike had openly worked for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the presidential election and is allegedly lobbying for the ministerial slot meant for the members of the Rivers APC while he remains in the PDP, because according to him, APC is a cancer. Now that the court has given the PDP a go-ahead, the party is expected to discipline him like an ordinary member which he has become with the expiration of his tenure as governor.

Now that Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been inaugurated as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, transforming the federation from its grievously ailing conditions to an increasingly enduring polity remains the greatest task before the new government, Gboyega Akinsanmi writes

Tinubu

BRIEFING NOTES

The Yari Conundrum

Ejiofor Alike writes that President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress should handle the opposition to the party’s zoning arrangements by forces led by the former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari with caution to avoid losing the leadership positions in the National Assembly as a similar protracted disagreement between the former governor and Senator Kabiru Marafa had denied the ruling party all the elective positions in Zamfara State

The anointed candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) may lose all or some of the strategic leadership positions in the 10th National Assembly following the former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari’s sustained opposition to the party’s zoning of the presiding officers’ positions.

The ruling party had in consultation with President Bola Tinubu anointed a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin as its preferred choices for the positions of the next Senate president and deputy Senate president, respectively.

Vice President Kashim Shettima had argued that the choice of Akpabio is for the purpose of faith-balancing after the party’s controversial Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.

Explaining the rationale for the zoning arrangement, Shettima said: “What we are trying to avoid is a situation whereby the number one citizen, number two citizen, the number three citizen and the number four citizen are all of the same faith. That will validate the negative narrative of the Islamisation of Nigeria

“That is why my principal, a fair-minded individual, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu insists the number three citizen must come from the South-south (Christian). The stability of the nation is more important than any other consideration. We are talking about inclusivity,” he reportedly said

But Yari who is a senator-elect representing Zamfara-West senatorial constituency, rejected the zoning arrangement, insisting that it is unfair to the North.

Speaking on ‘The Morning Show,’ a programme on ARISE NEWS Channel, Yari argued that the zoning did not take into consideration the need for ethnic and regional balance and especially rewarding his geopolitical zone (North-west), which gave President Tinubu the highest number of votes.

He also claimed that the APC did not consult widely, adding that “…what we only saw in the media is that the party has chosen and has given names to adopt.”

According to him, “The present Chief Justice of the Federation is from Oyo State; and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed, President-elect, is from Lagos State, and Akpabio is from Akwa Ibom State at the same time and the next Chief Justice of Nigeria is going to be from the South-west in a couple of months.

“So, have you ever seen since the return of democracy in 1960 whether this kind of thing happened during Shagari, Obasanjo, Yar’Adua, or Jonathan?” Yari reportedly queried.

Besides, the argument of the former Zamfara State governor is that the North-west geopolitical zone contributed the most in making Tinubu president.

On the claim that the zoning was for religious balancing, the opponents of the arrangement have also expressed surprise that the same leaders who had told Nigerians that religion should not be considered but competence when they foisted Muslim-Muslim tickets on the country, have turned around to claim that religion has suddenly become an important factor.

Indeed, the dispute has exposed the hypocrisy of the members of Nigeria’s political class, who tilt facts and arguments against or in favour of religion or tribe when it suits their selfish agenda.

They weaponise religion and ethnicity to hoodwink the gullible masses just to actualise their selfish agenda, which at the end, won’t improve the wellbeing of the members of any tribe or religion.

On his part, Yari wants to be seen as championing the cause of the North because regional sentiment is the most potent weapon, he can use to actualise his personal ambition under the prevailing circumstances.

He chose to whip up core northern sentiments and not religious sentiments since the President, Vice President and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) are his fellow Muslims.

He ignored the fact that his ambition will not

allow Christians to occupy any of the five top leadership positions in the country.

Feelers from the camp of the opposition parties indicate that the crisis may deny the ruling party or their anointed candidates the leadership positions in the same manner Yari’s supremacy battle with Senator Kabiru Marafa robbed the party of all elective positions in his home state in 2019.

Many believe that Yari has the capacity to inflict such collateral damage on the ruling party.

To outsmart Yari and realise their own agenda, Shettima and the APC cited faithbalancing, which is a plausible explanation. He should realise that his North-west zone benefitted from the ruling party more than any of the other five geopolitical zones, being the only zone that has produced the President of Nigeria on the party’s platform for eight years.

Shouldn’t former Zamfara governor see his zone’s massive support for the party in the 2023 elections as its own

NOTES FOR FILE

way of appreciating the party?

His zone not only produced President Muhammadu Buhari, but has also been compensated with the positions of the next Deputy Senate President and the next Speaker of the House of Representatives, even when no position was zoned to the North-central, which also delivered massive votes to the APC. Discordant tunes by the APC leaders are also not helping the party’s cause as it appears there are enemies within who are working to truncate the party’s agenda.

Receiving the anointed candidate for the speakership position, Tajudeen Abbas and other lawmakers-elect in Abuja recently, Vice President Shettima had addressed Abbas as “by God’s grace, our Speaker-in-waiting” and referred to his anointed deputy, Benjamin Kalu, as “our Deputy Speakerin-waiting.”

But when the same group visited the party’s National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, he reportedly warned Abbas’ supporters, including about 100 lawmakers-elect to stop addressing the Kaduna lawmaker as the incoming Speaker.

“I want to make one correction so that we will not be misrepresented. Quite a number of you have referred to Hon. Abbas as the Speaker. Please, he is one of the aspirants. He will become Speaker on the day of proclamation,” Adamu reportedly told Abbas.

Adamu’s statement has provoked the ire of the National Vice Chairman of the APC for North-west, Dr. Salihu Lukman, who alleged that the leadership of the APC was subtly working against the zoning arrangement adopted by the party.

Lukman accused Adamu of acting as a factional leader opposing the zoning decisions approved by the National Working Committee (NWC).

In a press statement issued last Wednesday, Lukman said: “The same conservative bloc is now spewing up hardcore ethnic northern arguments against the zoning decisions approved by the NWC following the outcome of consultations between Senator Abdullahi Adamu-led NWC team with President Tinubu.”

“Part of the test will be whether President Tinubu, having agreed together with the APC NWC on zoning formula for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly just sit and watch conservative right-wing elements within the APC use Northern ethnic arguments to mobilise for the defeat of endorsed APC candidates for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly.” Lukman argued. President Tinubu’s administration will be the greatest loser if those opposed to the zoning arrangements have their way.

Tinubu and the APC should consult and pacify Yari and other aggrieved aspirants.

When Will Suspended Adamawa REC, Others Be Prosecuted?

MorethansixweeksafterthesuspendedAdamawaState ResidentElectoralCommissioner(REC),HuduYunusa-Ari, allegedlyusurpedthepowerofthestateReturningOfficer fortheApril15supplementarygovernorshippollinthestate, Prof.MohammedMele,thepolicehavenotarraignedAriand other indicted officials, including security chiefs.

Inwhatwasviewedasanelectoralcoup,Yunusa-Arihadon Sunday,April16usurpedthepoweroftheReturningOfficer anddeclaredthegovernorshipcandidateoftheAPC,Senator AishatuDahiru,betterknownasBinani,asthewinnerofthe AdamawaStategovernorshipelectionwithoutwaitingfor the collation of the results to be concluded.

Beforetheannouncement,Binaniwasclearlylosingthe electiontotheAdamawaStateGovernorandcandidateof the PDP, Ahmadu Fintiri.

Again, only the Returning Officer is empowered by law

to declare the results of a governorship election and not the REC.

The suspended REC had stormed the collation venue with the Commissioner of Police on election duty in the state,MohammedBarde,andmadetheunconstitutional announcement that was not backed by any result.

After going into hiding, he later surrendered to the police and was quizzed at the Force Headquarters with his passport allegedly seized, as part of preconditions for his administrative bail.

There were also reports that he was restricted to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after a senator allegedly stood surety for him. But since Yunusa-Ari and other indicted officials were releasedonadministrativebail,thepolicehavenotprosecuted themtoserveasadeterrenttootherenemiesofdemocracy.

Also, some of the top security and police chiefs who provided cover for him during the illegal announcement have since returned to their duty posts.

Thisdevelopmenthaslentcredencetotheclaimthatan influentialpoliticalleaderfromtheNorth-east,whowas allegedlybehindtheAdamawacoup,haskilledthecase. Manyhaveallegedthattheauthoritiesarewaitingfor Nigerianstoforgettheincidentsothattheywillburythe case permanently.

Governor Fintiri, who eventually won the election should put pressure on the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, to prosecute Ari and all the security chiefs involved.

Political leaders who encourage acts that threaten Nigeria’s democracy should be reminded that they will be the greatest losers if democracy is truncated.

Baba

Yari

Can Tinubu Make Nigeria Safe?

Following the riot act which President Bola Tinubu read to the security chiefs last week after assuming office, millions of Nigerians are hoping that it seriously translates to changing the tide of insecurity and making Nigeria safe again, writes

In a momentous inauguration ceremony last Monday, President Bola Tinubu took the oath of office as Nigeria’s 16th democratically elected president, succeeding former President Muhammadu Buhari. Since the inauguration, one question has been lingering in the hearts of many Nigerians: Can Tinubu deliver on his promise to address the country’s escalating insecurity and restore safety to its citizens?

According to the statistics of killings released by an American think-tank, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), which issues weekly data collated by its subsidiary, National Security Tracker in Nigeria, at least 89,920 people were killed in Nigeria due to violent acts, within the first seven years of Buhari’s administration from May 2015 to May 2022.

Another organisation dedicated to the tracking of violent incidents in the country, Nigeria Mourns, recently released its first quarter report of 2023 which showed that 1,230 people were killed in the country in the first quarter of 2023.

The report also said that 79 security personnel died within the period while 658 people were abducted across the country. It added that banditry remained the most singular cause of violent deaths across the country with 29.27 per cent or 360 deaths while an existing threat is the rise in extra-judicial killings and herdsmen-related killings, which constitute about 10.08 per cent and 13.65 per cent, respectively with at least 124 and 168 deaths.

Even till the eve of his inauguration, there were still killings of hundreds of women and children in Benue and Plateau States by herdsmen.

There were also the killings in Anambra State of security personnel and staff of the United States Consulate in Nigeria a few weeks ago.

Although Buhari had pledged to crush Boko Haram, killings spread nationwide under his administration. Many Nigerians have argued that in Nigeria’s history, no administration had failed so abysmally to perform its assigned constitutional role of securing lives and property than the President Buhari presidency, despite riding to power with military pedigree as a retired major general and former head of state, a background that raised hopes that the challenge of insecurity would be contained.

It is however on record that Buhari empowered the military more than any other previous administration since 1999, but this did not lead to anything.

As President Tinubu assumes office, the eyes of Nigerians remain fixed on him, with both hope and apprehension. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, and the expectations are high. Nigerians yearn for a safer and more secure country, where they can board a public vehicle at night without looking over their shoulders.

Last Thursday, as part of his determination to address the insecurity in the country, Tinubu in his first meeting with the nation’s security chiefs, read a riot act to them, saying, a situation where security agencies work at cross purposes will no longer be condoned going forward.

He made it clear to them that he would not accept a situation in which the nation’s fortunes keep declining. According to president, in his own trajectory, national security has to be coordinated, there must be a clearing house going forward.

The president was also said to have mandated the security agencies to come up with a blueprint for tackling insecurity in the country. He said he doesn’t have the luxury of time, adding that necessary changes should be effected as soon as possible.

The meeting, which was the first with the service chiefs, was led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor. Others at the meeting included the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Farouk Yahaya; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo; and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba.

Others are the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj Gen Adebayo; the Director-General of the Department of State Service (DSS), Yusuf Bichi; the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.

Incidentally, in the unveiling of his manifesto, Tinubu made security a centrepiece of his agenda, vowing to implement a comprehensive strategy to combat these issues head-on.

One of Tinubu’s strategies is to bring to the fore a “bold, no-nonsense crime prevention reform” which will see to the establishment of highly trained and disciplined anti-terrorist battalions (ABATTS) — identified a special forces unit that will “seize the strategic and tactical initiative, giving terrorists, kidnappers and bandits no respite.”

The former Lagos State governor also said there would be an increase in the recruitment of police officers, while the force would be provided with high-tech equipment. VIP security will also be transferred to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

While many Nigerians are cautiously optimistic

Nwezeh

about Tinubu’s promises, some sceptics have questioned whether his administration can achieve the desired results. The scale and complexity of Nigeria’s security crisis cannot be understated, and the country has grappled with similar challenges for years. What is so different about the new president’s approach that has not been tested before?

Critics have argued that systemic issues, such as corruption, weak governance, and a lack of accountability, need to be addressed for any meaningful change to occur. Comprehensive reforms and an unwavering commitment to transparency will go a long way to ensure that the resources allocated to security are utilised effectively to reach those who need them the most.

“He has a lot to do. Happily, he said in his inaugural speech that security will be his number one focus. He can kickstart by immediately reorganising the security structure and creating a joint national intelligence and response centre for arresting security challenges before it happens and responding real-time once it happens,” Timothy Avele, Managing Director, Agent-X Security Limited, said.

Avele charged the Tinubu’s administration to take decisive measures to ensure the safety of Nigerians, particularly by addressing the main causes of criminality and insecurity in the country. He said if this is done, the level of crime would reduce significantly.

According to him, “If the new government can tackle at least three of the four main causes of criminality and insecurity in Nigeria (extreme poverty, injustice, unemployment, corruption), then the crime rates will fall below 40 per cent.”

He added: “Another critical area that needs attention is the retraining and upskilling of the police, DSS and other key law-enforcement and military agencies. We cannot be fighting insecurity with 1990 technologies and know-how in the 21st century. However, to succeed, he has to find a way to curb corruption in the system, otherwise, all efforts will yield very little positive outcome. Once he can show that he is in charge and that he means business by holding the top management of any security agency responsible for unaccept-

able lapses, then everything and everyone will fall in line.”

Analysing the security situation in the country, Col. Musa Baka (rtd), hopes that the new administration will prioritise security and value of human lives and contain the raging killing aimed at conquering indigenous Nigerians and taking over their lands by foreign herdsmen.

He said President Buhari got things wrong from the outset by putting square pegs in round holes with his appointments, and urged the new government to listen to the people.

“The incumbent should emulate the past that did not understand what democracy is all about, that power belongs to the people and not the government. I am from Southern Kaduna, and when we talk of people who have suffered security-wise under this government, I know how it feels. The federal and state governments have become compromised and an accomplice in the ongoing affair. When you are carrying out a reasonable task, you do not allow sentiments to blur your senses of reasoning, be it ethnicity, religion and the fault lines in our country. This government has failed to use all the instruments of coercion at its disposal as the federal might to protect its citizens,” he said.

A Certified Protective Officer, Frank Oshanugor, advised the Tinubu government to go the extra mile in addressing the root causes of insecurity, which the Buhari government failed to do.

“Agreed that the insurgency in the North-east has been checked to a great extent, it is still worrisome that up till now in the North and other parts of Nigeria, organised killings are still taking place. An example is the Benue massacre where over 30 persons were killed by suspected herdsmen. Kidnapping for ransom, gunmen attacks, herdsmen’s unprovoked invasion and destruction of people’s farmlands, and the like, in parts of Nigeria should be checked by the new administration,” he said.

How will he address the insecurity challenge which his predecessor abysmally failed to tackle and reverse the eight years of unending bloodletting and mass murder of innocent men, women and children is what many Nigerians are anxious about.

Today, the nation stands at a crossroads, and its future hangs in the balance. As the new president assumes office, the weight of responsibility rests on his shoulders, and the hopes of millions are vested in his leadership. Only time will tell whether Tinubu can indeed change the tides of insecurity and make Nigeria safe again.

Tinubu and service chiefs

Kingsley

Anxiety Mounts over Sanusi’s Possible Return

Recent events in Kano have shown that the new administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State may do to the immediate past administration of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje exactly what the late former governor Aliyu Sabo Bakin Zuwo did to the late governor Abubakar Rimi. Adedayo Akinwale writes that Yusuf may reverse the balkanisation of the Kano emirate by Ganduje’s administration exactly the same way Bakin Zuwo reversed the balkanisation of the emirate into five by Rimi’s administration between 1979 and 1983

There was a mild drama at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano last Monday, during the inauguration of Abba Kabir Yusuf as the new governor of Kano State. Miscreants suspected to be supporters of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) heckled the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, and his younger brother, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero, who is the Emir of Bichi.

It was gathered that immediately the firstclass monarchs arrived at the venue, the angry miscreants, suspected to be political thugs, started shouting at the top of their voices.

Governor Yusuf, popularly known as Abba Gida-Gida, had invited the dethroned 14th Emir of Kano, Mallam Muhammad Sanusi II, to his swearing in on May 29, 2023.

Even though the invitation came on the heels of mounting speculation that the government of the NNPP is considering re-crowning him and removing the current Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, the former emir did not honour the invitation. Instead, he chose to attend the inauguration of the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti.

However, Sanusi’s absence did not stop the crowd from embarrassing the emir.

The first sign that the last has been heard about the dethronement of Sanusi came in April when the presidential candidate of NNPP in the last general election, and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, declared that the incoming administration of Yusuf would revisit the dethronement of the former monarch.

Sanusi, who became emir in the final term of Kwankwaso as governor of the state, was dethroned by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, who was the deputy governor at the time the monarch was installed.

Sanusi fell apart with Ganduje in 2017 over political issues and alleged comments on Ganduje’s style of government, as well as that of the Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government.

Ganduje had accused Sanusi of working for the opposition party and instigating the masses against his re-election in 2019. Although the Emir was quoted on several occasions as urging the people of the state to vote credible candidates based on their conviction of the

best option among candidates, there was no evidence available in the public domain to prove that the emir openly canvassed votes for the opposition.

At last, Ganduje sacked Sanusi after six years on the throne and subsequently created additional emirates with first class chiefs with equal powers and privilege as Emir of Kano.

However, the action triggered criticisms due to the suspicious motive.

The critics of Ganduje’s action had recalled a similar action by the late former Governor Abubakar Rimi, who equally balkanised the emirate into five during his administration between 1979 and 1983.

The new emirates however lasted for only a few months before Rimi’s successor, the late governor Aliyu Sabo Bakin Zuwo reversed the action, which was considered ill and politically motivated.

Ganduje sacked the emir on March 9, 2020, and banished him from Kano to Loko, a sleepy community in Nasarawa State.

The former emir later became the leader of the Tijaniyya Islamic sect in Nigeria, after he was turbaned in Senegal as the Khalifa of the Tijaniyya sect in Nigeria by Sheikh Mahi Ibrahim Inyass, the Grand Khalifa of the Tijaniyya Movement.

However, Justice Anwuli Chikere of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in December 2021, declared his banishment as unlawful and unconstitutional, and also awarded N10 million compensation to him and against the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Attorney-General of Kano State, who were also ordered to tender a public apology to him in two national dailies.

Following the court judgment, Sanusi had last February paid a historic visit to Kano State. The former Emir later clarified that he was in the state on his way to Dutse, Jigawa State.

He explained that he could not fly directly to Jigawa State, because of the bad weather and had to stop over in Kano.

After Sanusi’s dethronement, Ganduje had also enacted a law splitting the Kano emirate into five emirates and appointed Emirs who were at par.

But speaking in a viral video shortly after the 2023 general election, Kwankwaso said

the dethronement and balkanisation of the emirate would be reviewed by the government of Governor Yusuf.

“We have campaigned and as you know we are popular in Nigeria, especially in Kano State, we are now back and God willing we will continue with the good works our administration left. This incoming governor and his team will take them up.

“As elders, we will continue to advise them to do the right thing. We tried not to intervene in the issue of bringing or removing any Emir, but now, an opportunity has come. Those who were given this opportunity will sit down and see to the issues. They will look at what they are expected to do.

“Besides the Emir, even the emirate has been divided into five places. All these need to be studied. Usually, a leader inherits good, bad, and issues that are hard to reconcile,” Kwankwaso had said.

Since Kwankwaso made this revelation, the ancient city has been gripped by anxiety over the implication of a possible reversal of the dethronement.

But reacting to Kwankwaso’s revelation, Ganduje had also declared that God would not allow anybody to destroy the four new Emirates created by his administration.

In his speech to mark the 2023 Workers’ Day at Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, Kano, Ganduje insisted that the newly created four Emirates had come to stay.

To him, the four new Emirates are etiquettes of unity, progress and even development across the state.

He said: “Any of you that visits the headquarters of these new emirates will believe me that we have brought development to these places. These emirates were created for unity, progress, history, and also for the recovery of the reputation of the traditional institutions. We created them to honour the people of these regions.

“I want to assure you that these emirates are permanent; they have come to stay. And anybody that will destroy them, God Almighty will not bring him to Kano State. We assure you that these emirates were created because of you, because of your progress. Even if we are not in government, we are praying and we will keep praying for God to protect these emirates from all evils. I thank you all,” Ganduje reportedly explained.

Recall that one year after he removed Sanusi, Ganduje had at the presentation of a book on former President Goodluck Jonathan, which was authored by a journalist, Mr. Bonaventure Melah, argued that the former emir was not the best man for the throne, adding that he removed him to save the traditional institution from abuse.

He also alleged that the deposed emir was appointed to spite former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Meanwhile, apart from inviting Sanusi to his inauguration, the new governor has not made any public pronouncement on the planned review.

The final decision on the matter resides with him and not the NNPP leader.

However, Sanusi had in a video shortly after his dethronement, declared that he was no longer interested in going back to the throne of Emir of Kano.

The video was shared in March 2020 by Ibrahim Adam, the personal assistant to Yusuf, now governor and PDP governorship candidate in the 2019 elections.

He said, “I have done what I could in six years, I’m moving on. I don’t want to go back. The truth is, if I had wanted to go back, the dethronement letter was so badly written, it was not done professionally. The easiest thing is just to go to court.

“It’s simple, fair hearing, ‘did you query him? Did you ask him to defend himself? Did you even call him to ask him any question?’

“That’s all but I think we should go on to a new phase in life. There is no reason to be sad or be depressed. I know it’s difficult but for me; it’s never an issue,” Sanusi reportedly said.

For now, there is anxiety over the implication of Sanusi’s return to the throne.

Sanusi Ganduje Yusuf Kwankwaso

All Eyes on Tinubu, National Assembly

Thecontroversythatsurrounded the choice of Senator Godswill Akpabio as the preferred candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 10th Senate Presidency has failed to subsideandthedevelopmentis generatingserioustensionamongthesenators-elect.

Apart from Akpabio from the South-south geopolitical zone, others who are also contesting the 10th Senate Presidency are: Senators Abdulaziz Yari (North-west), Orji Uzor Kalu (South-east) and Osita Izunaso (South-east).

ThosewhoarebiddingforthepositionoftheDeputy Senate President are the APC-anointed candidate, Senator Barau Jibrin (North-west) and Senator Sani Musa (North-central).

However,THISDAY’sinvestigationsrevealedthat the camps of Yari, Kalu and Izunaso are planning an alliance that would produce a joint ticket.

Both Izunaso and Kalu had commenced separate meetings with Yari on the possibility of working together.

ItwasalsolearntthatIzunasoandKaluhadagreed separately with Yari to contest the deputy Senate Presidency if Yari insists on running.

Kaluconfirmedhismeetingandproposedalliance withYariinaninterviewwithjournalistslastTuesday.

TheformergovernorofAbiaStateexplainedthat Yari and himself were enjoying the support of their colleagues and other sponsors within and outside theSenateChambertomaketheirambitionareality.

He said, “I cannot step down for anybody. I’m contestingtheSenatePresidencybutwearetalking withSenators-electAbdulazizYarionthepossibility of a joint ticket and talks have reached an advanced stage on the issue.

“Our group and his group are talking and we are in intimate partnership and talks is ongoing. No zone cansingle-handedlyproduceaSenatePresidentjust as no single zone can single-handedly produce the President of Nigeria.

“WehaveaunitedpartnershipwithSenator-elect YarithatwillworkforNigeria.Inthecomingdaysand week, those partnership will be unveiled. We have not decided on who will be Senate President and who will be deputy.

“I cannot deny it – Yari is a friend of mine and I’m his friend and we have decided to talk.We have been speaking for the past four weeks and the result will beunveiledbyoursponsors,hehashissponsorsand I have my sponsors.

“The sponsors will come together to decide what direction this partnership will be. I’ll be very happy to reveal what the sponsors will say.

“The two of us are thinking of the integrity of the senate and support of President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima who were our colleagues.

“If you are thinking that what happened during

(former Senate President, Bukola) Saraki’s time, it will never happen again.

“Wewon’tdisappointNigerians.Wearecapableof representing our people - Yari-Kalu – Kalu-Yari - we won’t disappoint Nigerians. We will give Nigerians what they require and the Nigerian people won’t be disappointed,” he explained.

A member of the campaign team of Izunaso, who spoke off the record last Wednesday, also said the alliance between Yari and his principal would be perfected at a meeting in Abuja.

Senators,mostlyfromtheSouth-westweresaidto havecalledforameetingonFridaywheretheywould also review their position and chart a new course on the leadership of the Senate.

TheDirectorGeneraloftheAkpabio/BarauStability Group, Senator Ali Ndume, has however dismissed reportsthattheircamphadbeenthrownintotension over the alliance Yari was about to form separately with Kalu and Izunaso.

He said: “All the critical stakeholders within the APC and senators-elect are fully in support of the Akpabio and Barau joint ticket for the position of Senate President and Deputy Senate President.

“We have consulted all the leaders of the party and they had all given us their blessings. Most of the senators-elect, more than 70 of them that we had engagedone-on-one,hadalsopledgedtheirsupport and votes for us.

“Thosewhoarespreadingrumoursthatthereispanic inourcampareinsteadunderintensetensionbecause they know the reality on ground,” Ndume argued.

Ndume also dismissed claims by some groups who called for the withdrawal of Akpabio from the race because of the roles he allegedly played in the Niger Delta Ministry where he served as minister.

TheChairmanoftheCoalitionofConcernedNiger Delta Stakeholders, Odiedini Maachree, had told journalists in Abuja last Wednesday that his group would not support Akpabio because of the alleged roles he played in the NDDC.

He said: “In the wake of subsidy removal and the anticipated hardship it may bring to Nigerians, we need a robust senate leadership to make laws and approvals that will cushion the effect of the interim hardship of the subsidy removal.

“We frown and dissociate ourselves from any anointedcandidatebyanypoliticalparty;wetherefore supportindependentlegislaturewithoutinterference.

“We the coalition of concerned Niger Delta stakeholders hereby state categorically that we did not endorseanysenatorinSouth-southregionofNigeria for senate presidency.

“Ratherweareoftheopinionthatthesenateshould be a level playing ground where leadership election willbeconductedfairlyandanyonewiththemajority vote wins,” he reportedly explained.

He said the group would back Yari.

But in a counter argument, Ndume claimed that the group were sponsored to misinform Nigerians

about the roles of Akpabio in the ministry when he served as minister.

Hedismissedtheclaimsoftheaggrivedaspirants and their loyalists.

Ndume said: “It is not surprising that whenever a politically exposed person is contesting elections, some people would be sponsored to raise issues against him or her.

“Don’t forget that President BolaTinubu was also severally accused when he was campaigning to be president.

“We are not actually bothered about what the sponsored groups are saying about Akpabio; the anti-graft agencies know what to do; why are they teaching them what to do?

“They are alleging that some corrupt activities took place under his watch at the NDDC but they did not said he misappropriated funds as governor or as minister.

“Akpabio was not the accounting officer of the NDDC;hewasonlyheadingthesupervisingministry.

“They also accused him of not constituting the board of the NDDC but that also, was not his job. The president of the country is saddled with such responsibility,” he added

Meanwhile, Izunaso has also claimed that it was his turn too to become the President of the Senate.

Izunaso said in Abuja last week that for justice, fairness and equity,Tinubu and the leadership of the ruling APC should consider service and sacrifice to the party in deciding who to support for the position of senate president.

TheSenatoraddedthathewasmorequalifiedand suitable for the position than all the other contenders in terms of competence, experience, education, knowledge,integrity,loyaltyandcommitmenttothe party.

He argued that the APC should compensate his sacrifice, dedication and loyalty to the party by supporting him for the position.

Izunasoexplainedthathedevotedhistime,energy and all in him together with the likes of elder statesman, Chief Bisi Akande and the current Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fahola to build the party from the scratch and served as the NationalOrganisingSecretaryforfiveyearswithout any blemish.

He maintainied that it would be grossly unfair and unjustfortheleadershipofthepartytodenyhimthe senatepresidencywhenhesaidhewasthebestamong the contestants.

Beyondbuildingandsacrificingfortheparty, Izunaso disclosed further that he went through hell during the campaign for the presidential election when he allegedthatsomekeyfiguresinhislocalgovernment and senatorial district were cruelly slaughtered just because they were supporting and urging people to vote for Tinubu.

Meaanwhile, the Senator-elect who would represent the Nasarawa West, Aliyu Wadada, has said

his colleagues from the North-central geopolitical zonewerestilldeterminedtoensuretheemergence of Senator Sani Musa as Deputy Senate President.

Wadada was elected on the ticket of the Social DemocraticParty(SDP).Hesaidthefactthatheand someofhiscolleagueshavebeenfollowingAkpabio, does not mean that the North-central had dumped Musa.

HesaidsincetheNorth-centralCaucusoftheincoming10thSenatehadresolvedtosupportandensure theemergenceofMusaasDeputySenatePresident, there was nothing wrong in supporting the choice of the APC for the position of the Senate President. Wadadasaid,“TheNorth-centralwillnot,andcannot beleftoutwitharepresentativelikeus.Wewillalways strive to get what belongs to us or what we deserve.

“We already had a press briefing where we clearly stated our position. After the press briefing, when the zoning arrangements had been announced, we also took a stand and our governors supported us.

“The governors met with the aspirants from the North-centralmetandeffortsarereallyontoensure that North Central gets what it deserves.

“AssenatorselectfromtheNorth-centralgeopolitical zone, our position has not changed.We stand for the Deputy Senate President.

“IftheNorth-centralCaucusstandsfortheDeputy SenatePresidency,byimplicationthatmeansthatthe caucus of the North-central, wants the Presidency of the Senate to go to the Southern part of Nigeria.

“MybeingaroundGodswillAkpabioandBarauJibrin does not change my position as a senator from the North-central part of Nigeria.

“AkpabioisfromtheSouth-south,Barauisfromthe North-west,whileWadadaisfromtheNorth-central. So there is no confusion at all.

“MybeingaroundGodswillAkpabioandBarauJibrin does not mean that the North Central Caucus had conceded to the APC joint ticket.

“TheNorth-centralgeopoliticalzonethathasbeen astabilisingfactorinNigeria’spolitics,wouldnotwant to rock the boat.”

He said the fact that the North-central Caucus recently said it won’t mind having the position of Speakerzonedtoitsgeopoliticalzonedoesnotmean, the senators-elect had abandoned Musa.

He said, “What we have said lately is that, if for any reason,thepositionoftheDeputySenatePresident that we have always canvassed for would not be conceded to us as North Central, then, we should be given the Speakership position.

“ThisisbecausetheNorth-centralcannotgoempty handed.Itisnotfair,Itisnotjust,itisnotrational.There is nothing right about it.

“A situation where a single geopolitical zone to have two presiding officers positions when the North-central remain empty, is not fair,” he added. With these divergent interests, Tinubu and the incoming federal lawmakers will have a tough time in the coming days.

With the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu, all eyes are on him and the National Assembly over the 10th Senate’s leadership tussle, Sunday Aborisade reports

Akpabio Kalu

Yari Izunaso

Mr. President, Mind the Gaps

Between an inaugural speech full of quotable nuggets and his reflex actions in just one week of presidential power, Mr. Bola Tinubu may have sketched the footprints of his presidency.

A casual off script remark on the removal of fuel subsidy (‘Fuel subsidy is gone!’) has set off a labour skirmish that could degenerate into labour unrest and popular protest. The incendiary aftermaths of that remark were instantly self-evident. Fuel queues resurfaced all over the country. Petrol was widely hoarded across board. Prices of gasoline jumped 300-400%. Other price spirals may be in the offing. Many questions immediately began asking and answering themselves. Why insert a far reaching policy measure with implications for many ordinary lives as a casual aside right on inauguration ground?

Why make an imperial pronouncement on such a matter when no government has been formed? Which government officials will handle the aftermath of such a serious decision let alone institute the palliative measures that should cushion people from an abrupt removal of petroleum subsidy?

While street side speculations rage on these concerns, the new president has gone ahead to inspire further consternations in other areas of national life. Are we heading for an era of government by shock therapy?

The president’s approach on the communication of his decision on the fuel subsidy matter in particular is a breach of the informal code of power in the presidential system. As a rule, a president must not be a bearer of ‘bad news’. He should ordinarily have a battery of officials who hint at the bad news, announce it to the public and possibly carry the burden of deniability. It is only when the government has considered the worst and best options on the bad news that the president could weigh in with the ‘good news’ of palliatives or phasing of the subsidy withdrawal for instance. Now without any government in place, without a National Assembly to mediate and without ministers to lead negotiations with labour and interest groups, the president will have to go face to face with angry unionists to negotiate the subsidy removal. That strategy could from the outset diminish the aura of the presidency as an institution and the gravity of the president as the highest priest of the deity of government.

In quick succession, the president has appeared at a briefing session with the Governor of the Central Bank alongside his wife with the Vice President in attendance. As soon as that photo showed up on the social media, Nigerians expressed concern as to whether this was going to be the pattern going forward. Would the Vice President be sidelined? Would Mrs. Tinubu be an active part of the executive business of government? What is going on?

In far away Lagos, one of the president’s daughters has changed her designation from “Iya loja of Lagos” to “Iya loja of Nigeria” as well as informally created and ascribed to herself the nonsensical office of “First Daughter of the Federal Republic of Nigeria” on social media at least. Here again, many Nigerians are trying to get used to what might be signals of a fledgling personality cult and family oligarchy.

Beyond these initial excusable procedural slip ups, it is refreshing, however, that President Bola Tinubu has indicated, quite early, an awareness of the enormous burden of his exalted office. In his inaugural address, he indicates a clear historic awareness of the burden of apex power in a country like ours: “Our burdens may make us bend at times, but they shall never break us…” Implicit in that courageous assertion is an underlying faith in the resilience of the Nigerian ideal. : “as long as this world exists, Nigeria shall exist”. There is therefore a sense in which Tinubu’s direct reach for power ‘Emilokan’ resonates with a sense of personal preparedness for the ultimate responsibility and historic burden of power. That at least is reassuring. However, the routine issues of presidential

learning steps will not diminish the heavy burdens that confront the Tinubu presidency. First, Mr. Tinubu has to deal with the issues of his general legitimacy and credibility. The legitimacy of his presidency is still tied to the general reservations among the public about the integrity of the election that gave birth to his ascendancy. As a measure of the popularity of his mandate, a popular vote score of less than 36% in a presidential election has not quite convinced many Nigerians that Mr. Tinubu is as yet their president. There are segments of the populace that continue to hope that the proceedings at the election tribunal and the various courts could reverse the declaration of Mr. Tinubu as president. While it remains unlikely that any such outcome will materialize, the reservations remain deep seated and could deny the new president of the support of a significant segment of the populace. The peculiarities of the Nigerian political and judicial ecosystem make it unlikely that Mr. Tinubu’s incumbency could be upturned.

Yet, Mr. Tinubu and his handlers must accord priority to an active engineering of his legitimacy in the post tribunal period. It is good that both in his inaugural address and afterwards, Mr. Tinubu has himself relentlessly harped on the broad national nature of his mandate. He has even extended a hand of fellowship to both Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party respectively. But this remakns valid as a manner of political speak. What is even more worrisome is that there is as yet an absence of an elite consensus on the Tinubu presidency. There is broad elite consensus on the issues that were at stake in the election that brought him to power, but on him as the carrier of that consensus. But Up to this point, the national elite remains fractured along ethnic, geo-political and general interest lines about this presidency. There are too many reservations about Mr. Tinubu as a person and the entire electoral process that produced his presidency across the spectrum of our national elite. Some feel that Mr. Tinubu’s resume

contains too many inconsistencies , dark spots, unresolved scandals and murky controversies for him to carry the moral and political weight of our national leadership. There are segments of the elite that tend to see him as a product of an unfair and emergent Yoruba domination of the political space after a Fulani hegemonic prevalence. Such people point to Obasanjo’s eight years in office and Osinbajo’s eight years a deputy to Mr. Buhari. Even within his ruling APC party, there are clear divisions between those who supported Tinubu’s emergence at the presidential convention and an elite corps of party people who preferred differently. Throughout the campaign season, this faction of the party elite either avoided Tinubu’s campaigns or quietly distanced themselves from his prospects.

The more religiously inclined segments of the elite point at his MuslimMuslim presidential ticket and see the outlines of simmering sectarian pre-eminence. Taken together, we are dealing with a presidency that could be assaulted from all sides by a lingering elite disapproval unless it actively and consciously addresses the matter of forging an elite consensus. And to have all this factionalism in a nation that is already badly divided increases the burden of power at the apex of our national leadership.

Beyond the headache of our fractious elite, Mr. Tinubu could be haunted by the specter of his immediate predecessor. For this moment in time, the Buhari legacy is undeniably a burden around Tinubu’s neck. It is more importantly a nightmare in our collective memory as a nation. It may be politically convenient for Tinubu to reiterate his allegiance to continue with Mr. Buhari’s tradition.

The president is tied to the Buhari umbilical cord by their common party heritage. In an ordinary situation,

a party that has just been re-elected into power should have little or no problem continuing with its programmes and policies. After all, an electoral victory means a popular endorsement of the programmes and policies of a winning party. But it remains doubtful whether the majority of Nigerians could have in all sanity reelected a party to subjected them to an eight year nightmare.

If it is in the area of infrastructure development, there may be no arguments about the necessity for Tinubu to vote for better federal highways and railroads. But of course Mr. Tinubu knows all too well that the Buhari legacy is dripping with infamy in virtually every area. It impoverished most Nigerians, creating a sea of abject poverty. It made the nation unsafe and dangerous, leaving too many orphans widows and widowers. It gave a free pass to all manner of crooks and mega corrupt officials. It devastated the economy and created enclaves of a dark economy that made the nation accumulate humongous debts beyond imagination. There is therefore no way in which Mr. Tinubu could possibly emulate or continue with these disgraceful legacies.

The choice that confronts the new president in this regard is self evident. While it is politically convenient to pay lip service to party policy and programme continuity, Mr. Tinubu will sooner than later have to drop anything resembling Buhari like hot coal. He has already disowned the Naira re-design calamity.

For the new president, there are ways out of what looks like a bind alley. An elite consensus can be engineered through a conscious effort to institute an enlightened governance. The starting point is perhaps in the quality of persons that Mr. Tinubu selects to run his administration. For political leaders after an election, the choice is usually a tricky one: to run with a cabinet of politicians or one of technocrats and intellectuals. In most recent Nigerian instances, the tendency has been to populate the cabinet with politicians. After all, they are the ones who worked to secure political victory at the polls. But the experience with governments run mostly by politicians is that they achieve little in terms of governance and national leadership. Such governments tend to end up producing conflicting political successes but fail disastrously on governance.

On the contrary, governments run mostly by technocrats and intellectuals succeed better in terms of policy and governance. In our recent past, President Obasanjo achieved better results in his second term when he inundated his cabinet with technocrats and intellectuals than in his first term when he had mostly politicians. Under the military, easily the most successful regime in terms of governance, innovation, institution building and originality was the regime of Ibrahim Babangida whose cabinet and advisory committees were run by intellectuals, technocrats and seasoned bureaucrats.

For Tinubu, this hour is auspicious for him to have the right mix of technocrats and some politicians. One hopes that he does not succumb to the menacing temptation to fill his cabinet with the hawkish politicians and political jobbers now hovering around him. If he is to be faithful to his legacy in Lagos state, he should dominate his government with highly accomplished Nigerian technocrats and intellectuals from across the world and the nation. That remains the heart of his Lagos achievement which is what brought him this far. This is one of the best ways to engineer a legitimacy that would neutralize his personal background shortcomings and help blur his political liabilities. It would also give him the national clout that he desperately needs.

As everyone who visits metropolitan London for the first time knows, the best advice that every wise commuter on the London Underground knows by reflex is a simple one: “Mind the Gap!” It saves lives and enhances the joy of the ride.

In the business of presidential power as well, Mr. Tinubu will do well to mind the present yawning gaps that threaten his path to a significant presidency.

Tinubu

Senate Presidency: Why the Cap Fits Orji Kalu

Samson Emeka

With the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday, May 29, as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, all eyes are now fixed on the emergence of the principal officers for the 10th National Assembly, comprising the Red and Green Chambers.

But more importantly, the focus, no doubt, will be greater on the Senate, the upper legislative chamber.

Expectedly, the contestants have indicated keen interest in the positions they intend to battle for with some settling to run for the position of the Senate President as a matter of their legislative right than selfish party zoning considerations.

In truth, our leadership selection process is again being called into question.

In different conversations, we have gained immense expertise in skipping the question, or at best skirting around it, many feeling unconcerned, with some discouragingly accepting that anyone can lead.

These egregious positions on the leadership question have thrown up all manners of people into positions that demand knowledge, expertise, competence and capacities to be groomed for future responsibilities.

At the moment, serious contestants and ranking senators have emerged, but some others only mentioned. They include Orji Uzor Kalu, Osita Izunaso (South-east); Godswill Akpabio (South-south); Sani Musa (North-Central); Abdul’Aziz Yari (Northwest); and Ahmad Lawan (North-east).

Given the fact that the President of the country, Tinubu and the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima are from the South-west and North-east respectively, the natural equation as overwhelmingly supported by political analysts is for the position of the Senate President to be ceded to the South-east.

Aside from the fact that the Southeast zone will provide the tripod plank for the political weight balancing and stability needed, it equally parades a highly distinguished Senator who stands out in legislative competence, as well as standing tall in all round leadership proficiency. That generalissimo, the go-getter, with exceptional management qualities is the maverick Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who at present is the Chief Whip of the Senate. Most political observers are in agreement that despite the competence of Senator Kalu in legislative matters, the Southeast zone of the country has suffered serious injustice and neglect over the years and needs to be deliberately considered in key national positions in the present dispensation.

Nigeria, no doubt, is on the edge and needs proper integration of the Southeast for the ship of state to sail smoothly.

As Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the great sage, warned President Shehu Shagari on the state of the nation at then troubling time: “There is a frightful danger ahead. Visible to those who care and are patriotic enough to look beyond their narrow self-interest. Our ship of state is fast approaching a huge rock, and unless you as the chief helmsman quickly rise to the occasion and courageously steer the ship away from its present course, it shall hit the rock”.

Before now, Senator Shehu Sani who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th Senate, first on the platform of APC and later the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has given an insight on why Senator Kalu should be considered for the Senate President position.

Sani who urged the APC to zone the position of Senate President to the Southeast, hammered strongly on the issue of equity and justice as harbingers for the unity of

any country.

According to him, the APC should consider the above aside any primordial sentiments in the interest of the nation.

On who he felt should be considered for the Senate presidency seat, he without mincing words said, the Senate should settle for Kalu.

Sani said: “The Senate Presidency should go to the Southeast for equity and justice. There is no better person to stabilise the National Assembly and maintain balance like Orji Uzor Kalu, having demonstrated competence as Chief Whip of the Senate.

“I am not of the APC, but I think he remains the best option out of those who offered themselves and Kalu has the experience and the pedigree as well.”

Sadly enough, there has been intensive pressure on other Senate presidency aspirants to withdraw from the race and support a particular choice of a segment of the party, Senator Godswill Akpabio, but which Senator Kalu has insisted, and wisely too, that he would not withdraw his bid in the race.

Many believe that the purported selection of Akpabio and Jubrin Barau as preferred candidates for the positions of Senate President and deputy respectively by President Tinubu may likely be counter-productive in the end result, going by feelers from political watchers.

Expectedly, aggrieved aspirants criticized the zoning arrangement and demanded a review.

In the same vein, Abdul’aziz Yari, former Zamfara governor, and a frontline contender had said the zoning formula was unconstitutional and skewed against the North and that he would run and not chicken out.

Waxing strongly too, Senator Kalu briefing reporters at the National Assembly, Abuja, on Tuesday, reechoed that he would not step down for Akpabio, disclosing that he was

already talking with Yari for an alliance and that their decisions would soon be made public.

Attached to the personal letters of intent Senator Kalu wrote to members of APC NWC and the 108 senators-elect, intimating them of his intention to contest the position of Senate President, was also a copy of his legislative agenda, which had six priorities.

They are: Economic Growth and Reform; Constitutional and Electoral Reform; National Security; Improved Social Conditions and Welfare; Efficient and Effective National Assembly and Global Influence.

Kalu promised to promote and defend the constitution and foster a congenial and cordial relationship between the executive and judiciary.

Therefore, many believe that there is need for justice, equity, and fairness if the country must move out of the political doldrums and economic mess that President Muhammadu Buhari left as a legacy.

And Justice consists not in being neutral between right and wrong, but in finding out the right and upholding it, wherever found, against the wrong.

Senator Kalu has continued to receive massive support and solidarity nationwide and beyond the nation’s shore on the 10th Senate presidency position.

One of the supporters’ groups, under the aegis of “Orji Uzor Kalu for Senate President,” said that the Senate Majority Whip deserves to be elected Senate President for his doggedness in upholding the APC flag against all odds in the Southeast.

Members of the group described Kalu as a pan-Nigerian who stood firm to defend the party’s honour at a time it was not politically fashionable to do.

Convener of the group, Engr. Fredrick Nwoha, on Wednesday, explained further that Senator Kalu equally made sacrifices for the growth and stability of the party by giving up his Presidential bid to pave the way for the emergence of President Tinubu.

According to the group, the Southeast was faced with a political tsunami and

should be encouraged to forestall a possible alignment that could throw the APC into a precarious situation in the 2027 elections. It reminded the party leadership that APC despite all odds now controls two states in the Southeast.

The group expressed confidence that the relationships built by Senator Kalu across religious and ethnic lines over the years would serve him and the nation well if he is given the chance.

It further noted that the zoning principle initiated in 1999 was designed to enhance and promote fairness and equity, and should not be abused.

Also, the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the apex socio-political youth groups in the Southeast, is heavily backing Senator Kalu’s aspiration to lead the Senate.

The Igbo youths in a statement by its President General, Goodluck Ibem, said: “As representatives of our people in Southeast, we have the mandate of our people to do their wish and bidding. We present Kalu as the consensus candidate by the people of Southeast for the position of Senate President.

“This adoption of Kalu by our people is a confirmation that we reject in its entirety the position of the deputy speaker purportedly zoned to Southeast before now.”

A popular cleric in Ebonyi State, Samuel Uzochukwu, recently decried the marginalisation of the Southeast in the zoning of principal officers for the 10th Assembly by the APC.

He said that the party and its leadership did not do well by not considering Southeast for Senate President.

Uzochukwu said: “Ndigbo have paid their dues in this country, but when it is time for them to be included in the scheme of things, they will be marginalised.

“Senator Kalu has been an inspiring leader over the years and many have vouched for his capacity to deliver.

“Those who abuse Kalu, especially his political opponents who have in diverse ways made things difficult for him, unknown to them are his friends in disguise. This is because by their actions they have toughened him and made him utterly fearless, unusual, and supremely self-confident.

“The reality is that Senator Kalu is not only a study in humility, but one with great wisdom, looking at his socially relevant and need-meeting antecedents.

“He is a personality that has refused to build obstacles in his imagination, always bearing in mind and remind ing himself that God is with him and that nothing can defeat him.

“For him, there are no hopeless situations only people who are hopeless about a situation, the reason he fights to achieve his set goals, not for himself alone, but for the good of others.”

Further study of Kalu’s life pattern revealed that he has a creative mind and since new developments are the products of a creative mind, he, therefore, stimulates and encourages such minds in every way possible in his leadership mantra.

Unarguably, Kalu is a personality that you know where he stands in any situation and is not a pretender like most political folks. He is a party man to the core.

Politically speaking, Senator Kalu is never discouraged to pursue his belief. For him, there is a future ahead and the resistance encountered now predicates hope.

He knows that only as we rise, do we encounter opposition, a reason, he fights to the end of any of his strong convictions.

The Kalu lesson is one of: show me a successful man and I will show you a man whose principles are not thought at Harvard, but that you have to be street-wise to succeed. Like he would always say, “I’m a true party man,” even when many saw his stand as unusual!

*Akukpo, a political analyst, writes from Lagos

Kalu

ADIEU GRANDMA …

L-R:

ICPC Uncovers Abandoned N45bn N’Assembly Constituency Projects

The Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) has uncovered National Assembly members’ uncompleted constituency projects worth over N45 billion, documents obtained by Punch have revealed. Documents revealed that the projects were tracked by sectors and states, showing the numerical and percentile breakdown of the projects.

This is part of the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative of the ICPC, which is

in its fifth stage, following the completion of the fourth stage in 2022. It was learnt that the tracking had helped the anti-graft agency to track about 4,000 projects valued at about N200bn.

It was gathered that the ongoing phase five is in collaboration with the Budget Office of the Federation, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Office of the AuditorGeneral of the Federation, Bureau of Public Procurement, the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, media practitioners and civil society

Return Govt Assets or Face Sanctions, Otti Threatens Ikpeazu’s Appointees

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has directed ex-public officials appointed by his predecessor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu up till Tuesday, June 6, to return all government properties in their possession or face sanctions.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Kenneth Kalu.

The action, according to the statement, is sequel to complaints that some of the ex-government appointees have refused to surrender some government property

in their custody including vehicles and computer sets.

The statement obtained by THISDAY read in part: “It has come to the knowledge of the state government that some government officials, including appointees of the past administration, are still holding on to government properties, such as vehicles, generators, laptops and other assets.

“Anyone who is in possession of government properties is hereby directed to return such to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, on or before 4pm on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, and obtain necessary acknowledgement from the SSG’s Office.

Jonathan Greets Diri at 64

Former Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has poured encomiums on the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, as he turns 64 on Sunday.

In a goodwill message yesterday, Jonathan described Senator Diri as a forthright leader committed to the growth and development of Bayelsa State since he assumed office three years ago.

Jonathan said the Diri administration had made significant progress in infrastructure development, security as well as sports and the general welfare of citizens.

He urged the Bayelsa governor to remain focused on the path of responsible and impactful gover-

nance just as he prayed that God will bless him with wisdom and uphold him in victory in his quest for nation-building and service to humanity.

Jonathan said: “I join your family, friends and the people of Bayelsa State to congratulate you as you celebrate your 64th birthday.

“I commend you for your forthright leadership and commitment to the growth and development of Bayelsa State since your assumption of office as Governor.

“Your administration has, in the last three years, made significant progress in the areas of infrastructure, security as well as sports and the general welfare

organisations that constitute the steering committee.

They include 205 healthcare projects, 76 water supply projects, 67 environment and natural resources projects, 66 education projects and 40 power projects, all tracked across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. According to the documents, taking the lead is the FCT with 13.01 per cent; followed by Lagos State with 9.48 per cent;

Kano and Borno states, 8.92 per cent each; Plateau State,5.58 per cent; Nasarawa State, 5.39 per cent; Enugu State, 5.2 per cent; Ebonyi State, 4.83 per cent while Ogun, Kaduna and Yobe states have 4.28 per cent each.

Similarly, Ekiti and Taraba states have 3.53 per cent each; Adamawa, Kebbi, and Edo states, 3.35 per cent each; Delta, 2.97 per cent; AkwaIbom, 2.6 per cent; Benue, 2.94 per

cent; and Rivers State, 1.12 per cent.

The fifth phase, involving 712 government-funded projects, commenced in November, 2022 in 20 states, namely Kaduna, Jigawa, Sokoto, Katsina, Kwara, Niger, Kogi, Cross River, Delta, Rivers, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Anambra, Enugu, Abia, Borno, Bauchi, and Gombe states.

The exercise, which kicked off in 2019, is said to be focused on

investigating fraudulent procurement practices in the award of contracts for the selected projects across the country.

The ICPC, in a statement in November 2022, said it aimed to ensure that all government-funded projects were executed fully to their specifications and to make recoveries where the project costs were either inflated by contractors or were poorly executed.

Ekwunife: I Lost Senatorial Seat to Blackmail

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The senator representing Anambra Central, and the senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, Senator Uche Ekwunife, has said that her defeat during the election was a result of blackmail by her opponents.

Ekwunife had lost the senatorial election in February to the candidate of Labour Party (LP),

Senator Victor Umeh.

The senator spoke yesterday, during a town hall meeting convened by her at Senator Uche Ekwunife Centre in Awka, to present her scorecard to her constituents, after a four-year term at the Senate.

She said: “This is my fourth and last town hall meeting as your senator. The next town hall meeting I will call will be in my personal capacity. I am here

to give an account of my four years journey because I held the position in the trust of millions of my constituents.

“I feel bad that many people tried to pitch me against Peter Obi (presidential candidate of Labour Party) as if I was contesting the election against Obi.

“I was blackmailed by my opponents, to the point that every remark I made during the election was twisted against me. They even

went as far as forging my letter head and issuing out fake press releases with them.

“In Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during the flag-off of the presidential campaign of the PDP, I was called upon to speak, and when I said that Nigeria needs a strong president, who can stand for the over 200 million Nigerians, and not a kindergarten president, they went to town that I was referring to Obi as kindergarten president.

Allocate Three Principal Positions to Female Lawmaker, Coalition Tells APC

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

A coalition of women groups yesterday tasked the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to allocate three seats out of ten principal positions to women in the 10th National Assembly.

The coalition, comprising Women in Business (WIMBIZ) and Women Advocates Research Documentation Centre (WARDC), said office of the Deputy Speaker, House

of Representatives to a female lawmaker.

It made the call at a news conference addressed by the Executive Director of WARDC, Dr. Abiola Akioye and her WIMBIZ counterpart, Hansatu Adegbite in Abuja yesterday.

At the news conference, the coalition called the All Progressives Congress (APC) to allocate three seats out of ten principal positions to female lawmakers.

Preferably, the coalition challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to as a matter of urgency, implement the gender policy inclusion, noting that it was nothing short of 35 percent affirmative action.

According to the coalition, there are female members of the House of Representatives, who have served for over four consecutive periods and are qualified for principal positions.

It lamented that even at

committee levels, women “are not given grade ‘A’ positions to head,” thereby calling for the application of more resources with reference to maternal mortality.

It added that the National Assembly “must work towards ensuring that matters of gender are well catered for. Women will continue to make demands, lobby, talk to state governors and will be open to negotiations that will be in favour of Nigerian women.

AIICO Insurance Refutes Breach of Contract Allegations

Wale Igbintade

The management of AIICO Insurance Plc has refuted a media report that it refused to pay insurance policy entitlement to a Lagos-based legal practitioner.

A statement issued by the Management urged the public to ignore the publication, stressing that the company remains steadfast in upholding transparency, integrity, and the principles of justice.

In the said report, the lawyer

had alleged that AIICO refused to pay his insurance policy entitlement, and thus breached the insurance contract between them.

He also alleged that the Insurance company refused to respond to his letter.

But, AIICO in its statement said “Our attention has been drawn to a widely circulating story on some online media with the headline “Lagos lawyer drags AIICO Insurance company to court over breach of contract,”

which we find to be sensational and misleading.

“ It is important to clarify that the headline implies that AIICO Insurance breached the contract with its client, whereas the reality is that the client failed to fulfil his contractual obligations to the letter which failure actually undermines the purport of this Insurance Contract.

“As a responsible corporate entity, we choose not to engage in any commentary regarding the ongoing legal case, allowing

the legal proceedings to follow its due course. We firmly believe in the judicial system and its ability to determine the truth and dispense of the matter accordingly.

“Consequently, we refrain from making any public statements until the conclusion of the current judicial process, whereupon we will address the matter appropriately. We remain steadfast in upholding our commitment to transparency, integrity, and the principles of justice.”

Former Ogun StateCommissioner of Police, Mr. Edward Ajogun; former Ondo State Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Mr. Kayode Akinmade; his wife, Mrs. Fehintola; Editor, The News Magazine, Mr. Ademola Adegbamigbe; former Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa; and News Editor, The Nation, Pastor Bunmi Ogunmodede, at the burial ceremony of late Mrs. Alice Adewusi, grandmother of Akinmade’s wife at Koye, Ogun State... recently

82 ISWAP Fighters, Families Drown in Borno River after Military Invasion, Report Claims

No fewer than 82 insurgents of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) and their families have drowned in a river in the north-east axis of Damasak in Borno state.

This was contained in a publication focused on the Lake Chad Region, Zagazola Makama.

The publication reported that the terrorists and their families from the Lake Chad area drowned in an attempt to escape massive troop incursion between Friday and Saturday while trying to cross over to the Niger Republic.

The report said the drowning, which happened in separate incidents, occured in Bulama Modori, Kaneram, Dogomolu and Jokka communities, adding that the river stretches from Komadougou Yobe into Lake Chad.

According to the report, most of

those killed in the incident were women and children, noting that while many others are currently in the hospital receiving treatment, excavation of bodies is ongoing.

In another development, at least two soldiers were reportedly killed when ISWAP fighters attacked reinforced troops with a Vehicle Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) at a base in Malam Fatori in Abadam LGA of Borno.

The troops were said to be on reinforcement to boost a task force when they came under attack by a group of terrorists.

On May 28, the troops of Sector 3 Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) reportedly killed three ISWAP terrorists in Borno.

The troops had encountered the terrorists during a fighting clearance operation between the boundary of Lake Chad and

Anambra Unveils Electronic Card to Curb Impersonation in Public Service

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The Anambra State Government has unveiled electronic identity card for civil servants and other government employees to curb impersonation, ghost workers and other ills in the system.

The card was unveiled at the weekend by the Head of Service of Anambra State, Mrs Theodora Igwegbe, at the Jerome Udorji State Secretariat in Awka, the state capital.

While unveiling the identity card, Igwegbe said it would strengthen the identity management of workers in the state by enabling the government and citizens to easily identify civil servants and all other government employees.

She said: “This scheme can significantly enhance service delivery for Anambra State civil servants. By digitizing identification processes, civil servants can access government services more conveniently, reducing paperwork and minimizing the need for physical presence.

“This digital transformation empowers civil servants to engage in online training, access relevant resources, and collaborate remotely, thereby

facilitating professional development and fostering knowledge-sharing within the civil service.

“Moreover, streamlined processes and faster turnaround times result in improved public service delivery, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Anambra State.

While explaining the processes involved in getting enrolled, the managing director of Anambra State ICT Agency, Fred Agbata whose office built the electronic identity card database said every civil servant is expected to enroll as not doing so may amount to excluding oneself from several benefits, including salaries.

“The card has a QR code, and all you need when you present it anywhere is for anyone who is in doubt to scan it using an Android device.

“Once done, the data of the said card holder will be revealed, even though only limited information will be revealed. This will curb identity theft, loss of revenue, ghost workers among others.

“Government is also providing free internet for all workers, and only civil servants that have requested and received their Anambra State government email will be able to access the WiFi.

VFD Group Board Approves Unbundling of Majority Shares

The board and shareholders of PremiumGreen Limited — the largest single shareholder of VFD Group Plc — have unanimously approved the decision to unbundle its holdings in VFD Group.

This will be through a transparent distribution process that will enable its shareholders to hold shares directly in VFD Group, the group said in a statement

The decision follows VFD Group’s recent notice to its shareholders regarding the forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the resolution to delist from the NASD to list on the main board of the NGX

The board of PremiumGreen

Malam Fatori in Abadam LGA of Borno.

In a related development yesterday, at least two soldiers were killed and many others injured when the Islamic State of the West African Province (ISWAP), terrorists attacked reinforced troops with a Vehicle Improvised Explosive

Device(VBIED), at the firm Base of Arege community in Malam Fatori of Abadam Local at Government Area of Borno State

This is even as scores of Terrorists (ISWAP) fighters and their families were feared dead after drowning in a River, North East axis

JOY OF MOTHERHOOD . . .

of Damasak town, also in Borno state. Multiple Sources have said.

It was gathered that the troops who were on reinforcement to boost the task force of Sector 3 and Sector 4 Multinational Joint Task Force(MNJTF), in Gerere and Arege, came under attack

by a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) over the weekend.

the ISWAP terrorists made an audacious attempt to infiltrate the advancing troops’ harbour using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED), but was instantly neutralized,

Oladiji Emerges New Speaker of Ondo Assembly

Fidelis David in Akure

The Ondo State House of Assembly yesterday elected a lawmaker representing Ondo East Constituency, Hon. Olamide Oladiji as the Speaker of the 10th Assembly.

The lawmakers, also, elected another member of the 10th assembly representing Ilaje Constituency 1, Abayomi Akinruntan Deputy Speaker.

The duo emerged unopposed after the Lawmaker represent-

ing Ifedore constituency, Hon. Temitope Akomolafe moved a motion for the nomination of Oladiji Olamide as Speaker and was seconded by the lawmaker representing Ondo West II, Abiola Oladapo.

Similar, the lawmaker representing Idanre Constituency, Hon. Oluwatosin Ogunlowo nominated Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan for office of the Deputy Speaker.

The inauguration followed the expiration of the 9th As-

Focus on Economy, Infrastructure Devt, APC Chieftain Tells Tinubu

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao, has enjoined President Bola Tinubu, to make the expansion of the economic frontiers and development of the Nigerian people his main focus.

to take its rightful place in the comity of nations, stating that it was a clear demonstration of the collective wishes of the teeming masses of the country who were yearning for a breath of fresh air in leadership from a man that has paid his dues in the political firmament of the country.

sembly led by the immediate past Speaker, Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun.

Addressing the 10th Assembly, the new speaker appreciated his colleagues for the confidence reposed in him and Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for providing an enabling environment leading to his emergence.

His words: “To my colleagues, this victory is for all of us. By electing me as the Speaker, you have demonstrated to

the world that our legislators are living up to their dreams and aspirations.

“I pledge to you my colleagues that there will be a smooth relationship between the legislative and the executive arms of government in order for us to achieve success,” the new speaker said.

On March 18, the APC overwhelmingly won 22 seats out of the 26 constituencies in the state while the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) won four seats.

League of Non-Career Ambassadors

Hail

Geoffrey Onyeama

The immediate past Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, has commended Non-Career Ambassadors for their transformative relationship between Nigeria and their host countries.

when you have a candidate for international position.

firmly believes that the unbundling of VFD Group shares will unlock substantial value for PremiumGreen shareholders and enhance liquidity on the shares of VFD Group Plc,” the company said.

“Subject to the recently concluded AGM and the approval of shareholders, VFD Group will be listed on the main board of the NGX.”

The company maintained that the listing represents a milestone in VFD Group’s growth trajectory, enhanced visibility, increased liquidity, and expanded market access.

Alao maintained that he believed in the capacity of the former Lagos State governor to guarantee security of lives and property of the citizenry based on the experience which he garnered in both the private and public sectors.

He made the remarks in a congratulatory message to the 16th President of Nigeria yesterday.

He expressed confidence that his coming as the number one citizen of the country would usher in the needed prosperity, noting that it is important to galvanise the citizens and guarantee the socio-economic development of the country.

He said the inauguration of the president was a positive development for the country

According to him, the assurance from his inaugural speech that he would govern and not rule speaks of a man committed to make positive difference in the lives of Nigerians, stating that by preparing to consult and dialogue rather than dictate is a pointer to the fact that the country is in a right hand at this point in time.

He added that as a great achiever, progressive and bridge builder, the Renewed Hope agenda would put a smile on the faces of Nigerians who have already lost hope in the nation, urging Nigerians to always remember the administration in their prayers for the President to deliver on his promises for the country.

Onyeama gave the commendation at an award night organised yesterday by members of the Conference of Non-Career Ambassadors of Nigeria, who converged in their numbers in Abuja to honour him.

He explained that Nigeria “has been extremely successful as a result of the excellent performance of Nigerian ambassadors in the course of their service. They have maintained excellent relationships with their host countries across the world.

“People always ask about Nigeria’s foreign policy but I tell them it is all about having excellent relationships with people across the world. With this, countries will give your country aid; increase investment, return artefacts and vote for you

“We have been extremely successful because of you. I must tell you that your set has been transformative in the relationship between Nigeria and the countries you are serving.

“Former President Muhammadu Buhari got it right in the selection. You have presented Nigeria to the world and that is the reason for the match-making portal recently launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This is a game-changer in the area of foreign direct investment”, Onyeama said.

Expressing gratitude for the award ceremony, Onyeama said he never “expected such honour. This is not something I expected. I cannot take it for granted. I am totally overwhelmed.”

Onyeama used the occasion to further commend the former President for appointing him a Minister, describing the opportunity to serve as an honour of a lifetime.

Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson Governing Council, University of Uyo, Iyom Berne Nwachukwu; Bride, Dr. Christina Eckhardt; and Groom, Dr. Benedict Uchenna Nwachukwu, after the wedding ceremony of the couple at Son Julian Country Home, Mallorca, Spain…recently

WHY (MOST) NIGERIANS OPPOSE SUBSIDY REMOVAL

curb smuggling, which I considered a grand celebration of the weakness and incompetence of state institutions. That Nigeria’s petrol was the cheapest in the world, as was being advanced as a major reason to remove subsidy, was also a problematic argument to me because I didn’t see why anybody should be saddened by that.

But the core economic argument that won me over in 2011 was that petrol subsidy was not an efficient way of spending a country’s resources. If you must subsidise, pick the productive link in the economic chain, not the consumption point. I think it was the then CBN governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, that kept hammering on that. Moreso, why pour trillions of naira into subsidising petrol when healthcare, education, power and roads are crying for help on a daily basis? Is that not a more efficient way of spending money compared to dispensing petrol at subsidised pump prices? These arguments resonated with me more than the claim that petrol was cheaper than Coke.

It got more interesting for me when Jonathan withdrew the subsidy in January 2012 and some of those who openly supported it were lobbying me, through back channels, to argue against it in my writings. I was shocked. All my life, I had been playing into the hands of these buccaneers with my pro-subsidy campaign which I thought was helping the poor. It finally dawned on me that the more government retained the subsidy, the more these buccaneers profited from the system and the less the real object of my campaign benefited. Jonathan was, unfortunately, forced to beat a retreat as the opposition parties came

FAREWELL, DOKPESI

Dr Raymond Aleogho Dokpesi died on Monday after falling on his treadmill while recuperating reportedly from a stroke that had held him down for months. It was so painful. The maritime engineer is best known as the founder of Ray Power 100 — Nigeria’s first private radio station. He later launched the African Independent Television (AIT).

With Ray Power and AIT, Dokpesi built men and women and contributed in no little way to the growth of journalism and entertainment industry. I first heard his name in a Sunny Ade song decades ago but I had no idea who he was, only to learn that he owned Africa Ocean Lines, Africa’s first indigenous shipping line. He was a great man. Adieu.

after him. Otherwise, we would have passed this stage ages ago.

Nevertheless, there were two fundamental reasons for my lifelong opposition to the removal of petrol subsidy until I abandoned my position in 2011. One, I strongly believed (and still believe) that the poorest Nigerians would suffer the most, at least in the short run, in terms of the cost of living, particularly as transportation is a major expense in most Nigerian cities. Two, I did not (and still do not) trust the government to spend the gains judiciously and make life better for Nigerians. There were other reasons — such as the smuggling argument — but those were tangential. Generally, I was never in the mood for anti-subsidy debates and I dedicated my life to savaging the campaign.

On my first point, for instance, there is no doubt that the burden of subsidy removal is disproportionately borne by the poorest whose incomes can barely sustain their living costs. Transport fares go up instantly and they have no wriggle room to deal with it. For an economy that runs largely on “I pass my neighbour” generators, cost of doing business for barbers, beauty salons, eateries and vulcanisers will go up. Cost of food items will go up, notably in the cities which rely on road transportation for supplies. Poor people will surely suffer. This was my position when I was a pro-subsidy campaigner and it remains my position even as I am now in support of subsidy removal.

The issue now is: how do you make things less painful for the poorest? This takes me to my second point. The N3 trillion we have spent on subsidy this year alone is enough to make public hospitals hospitable to Nigerians.

If we pour N3 trillion into the health sector today, buying the necessary equipment and drugs, upgrading the wards and paying the medical personnel decent wages and benefits, the “poorest of the poor” would feel the impact. If we choose to pour the N3 trillion into public schools, modernising the infrastructure, training teachers and treating them as human beings, the “poorest” would benefit and be glad. People need to experience, not just hear of, the benefits. Obviously, the core reason for opposition to subsidy removal is lack of trust in government. People would rather petrol sells at N185/litre and their daily transport fare remains N500 than to be promised better life if petrol is N500/ litre and transport fare goes to N1000. They would prefer the devil they know. Besides, many believe that “if not for corruption” Nigeria is rich enough to spend N6 trillion yearly on subsidy and still provide free electricity, free education and free healthcare. Many do not know that we currently owe over N46 trillion. Even if no kobo is stolen, we are in a mess. The simple truth is that we cannot afford petrol subsidy anymore. The economy is choking to death.

In fairness, Nigerians have earned the right not to trust the government. Of all the fuel price increases and the promises of better life in the last 40 years, why are we still here? Why are most roads, schools and hospitals still like this? Why are primary healthcare centres still lacking in basic drugs and personnel? Why are primary schools still lacking chalks and good teachers? Why are public taps still dry and poor people are drinking from the stream and contracting cholera? And we keep reading

And Four Other Things…

MIND THE GAP

Although President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has spent less than one week in office and deserves his honeymoon, some things need to be handled better in the days ahead. For one, press statements have been signed by at least three different persons. We in the media don’t even know who to relate with. We are practically scavenging for photographs of official engagements on the internet.

Senator Remi Tinubu, the first lady, tweeted congratulations to Rt Hon Femi Gbajabiamila before he was officially announced as the chief of staff. The transition between the Buhari and Tinubu administrations was not as seamless as you would expect of people from the same party. Lacuna.

NOTES ON TINUBU’S FIRST WEEK AS PRESIDENT

Most importantly, he needs to assemble a well-credentialed and highly credible economic team. This cannot be emphasised enough: we need competent managers of the economy. Managing the economy is a technical area, not all-comers’ affair or a place for people to learn the ropes or a place to reward loyalists. We need people who know what to do from Day One, and have the stature and the network to attract the necessary support and investment to start the process of turning our economy around.

On the security front, two developments within the week gave the new president the opportunity to make strong and necessary statements. The first was the disgraceful face-off between the DSS and EFCC the day after Tinubu’s inauguration. Apparently, there had been some cold war between the two agencies over a compound they share (and maybe over other things). But the show of shame on Tuesday is beyond the pale. Though in different contexts, that was not the first time that these same agencies and others would engage in open face-offs. Unfortunately, these public altercations happened with their authoriser looking the other way. A prompt statement issued in the name of the new president restored needed sanity.

Two days later, Tinubu had his first meeting with the National Security Adviser, the service chiefs and heads of intelligence agencies. From the video shared, there was an awkward moment at the beginning when Tinubu walked into the room and asked: “gentlemen, are we supposed to shake hands?” He ended receiving their salutes and shaking their hands. However, a major takeaway from that meeting is that the new president would not tolerate the agencies working at cross-purposes. Ordinarily, this should be taken for granted. But it was also an open secret in Abuja that at a time the heads of these vital agencies not only engaged in cold wars but even actively undermined one another. Some of them were not even on speaking terms. So, how do we stand a fighting chance in winning

the war against terror if those who should be working together were busy fighting one another? How can a divided house stand?

In his inaugural speech, Tinubu also touched on the need not just to adequately resource our armed and security forces but also to undertake necessary reforms in our security doctrine and architecture. These are all fine words. The real test is in backing them up with proper plans and diligent execution, and in the Commander-in-Chief taking the security of the country as his topmost job. Here too, having the right team in place and quickly too, and always acting on time will be critical.

ACT OF COMMISSION

The senate passed an amendment bill last week effectively castrating the chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

After reading the amendments to the ICPC Act, I concluded that the commission does not need a chairman any longer. The board will be able to meet at his back and appoint a member to preside. Certain provisions mentioning the “chairman” have been replaced with “commission”. Could it be that the current chairman, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye, has stepped on some toes and the senators believe the best way to deal with him is to destroy the 22-year-old institution? Will he be chairman forever? Bewildering.

While the early signals on the economy and security give reasons for cautious optimism (assuming the talks will be backed up with concrete actions), the signs in other areas give cause for concern. The first is the vibes from some members of the president’s family. His first daughter, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, rolled out a programme by her ‘Friends of Iyaloja’ to assist the government. In her Twitter bio, she also named herself the ‘Iyaloja of Nigeria’ and the ‘First Daughter of Nigeria’. The president’s son, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, has also been reported to be planning to play some active, even if informal, roles.

While it is okay for children and family members of politicians to participate in political campaigns, it is not proper for them to attempt to be part of governance in any shade or form. Their meddling in governance or peddling of influence creates a moral muddle and paves the way for avoidable scandals. The president needs to tell his children and other family members to face their private businesses. They were not on the ticket. They should be as far away from the Villa and all government agencies as possible.

The other area of worry is the uncoordinated nature of communication from the highest seat of government. Different people are issuing statements. Someone without official designation was made to brief the press after an important meeting while senior government officials stood in the background like school boys. There have been mixed messages on when removal of petrol subsidy will take effect. The statement announcing the first two high-profile appointments by the president left out a very important information: when the appointments will take effect.

The last bit may appear a minor issue but it is not. That omission gave rise to the needless controversy about whether Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila could simultaneously serve as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Chief of Staff to the President. We

that one minister has stolen N20 billion, one governor has bought private jets, and one commissioner has mansions. And we expect poor Nigerians to embrace subsidy removal like a pillow!

In our history, only once or twice has the government increased petrol price and the people could point to how the gains were spent to improve their lot. In November 1994, Gen Sani Abacha raised the price and set up an intervention agency to rebuild public infrastructure, mostly roads, healthcare, education and water. That remains the gold standard. Alas, we are now operating a federal democracy and the president cannot dictate to states on how to spend their money. If Tinubu says let’s modernise hospitals but a governor says it is “cargo airport” that he wants to build in a state with poor health facilities, what can the president do? Nothing. That is our “true federalism”.

The best way forward, nonetheless, is for the government to win the trust of the people. As a starting point, I propose that all the revenue that will accrue to every tier of government from petrol subsidy removal should be isolated into a special fund and spent on specific social intervention programmes. Agreed, no tier of government can dictate to the other on how to spend its funds, but they can mutually reach a consensus in the interest of national development. How these funds are spent should also be publicised monthly for transparency and peer review purposes. Tinubu, as the leader, has to work harmoniously with the governors to deliver dividends from this subsidy removal.

DSS VS EFCC

Nigerians woke up on Tuesday to the disturbing news that there was some beef between the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Ikoyi office whose entrance they both share. They are in the same compound. The property used to belong to a DSS legacy agency before EFCC was created. Until now, there was no sign of any dispute or tension between the two. The EFCC accused the DSS of preventing its staff from gaining access to the office. The DSS response was coded. I still do not understand what went down but I hope we will never witness anything like this again. Not a good way of welcoming a new president. Mysterious.

run a presidential system of government and one person cannot serve in the two arms of government at the same time. Presidential system of government is undergirded by the concept of separation of powers and checks and balances. It took the tweet by Hon. Gbajabiamila to clarify that he would assume office as the Chief of Staff on 14th June when he would have stopped being the Speaker of the House and hopefully resigned from his parliamentary seat.

Some of these slips could be attributed to the fact that it is still early in the day. But the president has little scope for errors because of the times we live in and the tasks at hand. A careful and honest review of the blips of the early days should be undertaken. Among others, clear, coherent and coordinated communication will be critical.

On the whole, the first week is not a bad start for Tinubu. But he needs to sustain the positives and minimise/eliminate the areas of concern. Those areas of concern are likely to hamper his effectiveness if not firmly addressed. He needs to settle quickly into a role that he coveted for so long. Yes, he has executive experience at the state level, but the last time he held office was 16 years ago. That was a different era, and the presidency is a different arena of power.

No matter his individual talent and capacity, a president is only as good as the people around him. Tinubu needs to constitute his team with despatch and invest his team members/cabinet with the moral and political authority to act on his behalf, to flesh out his campaign promises, and to take critical loads off him. He should quickly emplace his full team to telegraph a sense of urgency and seriousness and to free up the space for him to focus on the big picture. Focussing on the big picture and the connecting threads is the critical job a president cannot delegate. Getting sucked into the minutiae of administration crowds out the bandwidth needed for this critical task.

Tinubu

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

Guardiola’s men beat Red Devils to lift FA Cup Man City Two Down, One More Win to Treble

Manchester City’s hope of a treble this season gained traction yesterday as Pep Guardiola’s men defeated Manchester United 2-1 to lift the English FA Cup at Wembley.

Ilkay Gundogan scored twice to give City the priced silverware. Having already won the Premier League title, City can now go into Saturday’s Champions League final against Inter Milan in Istanbul with the opportunity to emulate United’s feat of 1999.

And City captain Gundogan was the big game match-winner again, assuring his place in history with the quickest goal in FA Cup final history, a stunning volley after only 12 seconds eclipsing Louis Saha’s strike for Everton after 25 seconds against Chelsea in 2009.

Manchester United equalised after 33 minutes when the video assistant referee ruled that Jack Grealish had handled, Bruno Fernandes coolly sending Stefan Ortega the wrong way from the spot.

It was Gundogan, as he does so often, who made the decisive contribution when he volleyed Kevin de Bruyne’s free-kick past United keeper David de Gea six minutes

after the break to give City the FA Cup for the seventh time.

Manchester City stand just 90 minutes away from the greatest season in their history.

With the league and FA Cup secured, next comes the chance to claim that elusive Champions League against Inter Milan.

Should they succeed, they would become only the second English club to complete the Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.

United, who did it 24 years ago, did their best to halt City’s bid, but the league champions had too much power - and in Gundogan, they had a player who revels in the pressure of the big occasion.

His two goals, including that stunning early opener, emphasised what a figure of significance he has become, assuring him of a special place when the story of City’s glory years is written.

Istanbul and Inter Milan are next on City’s agenda and in their current relentless, irresistible mood, it would be more of a surprise if they did not complete the Treble than if they did.

FIFA President, Infantino, Commends Pinnick on National Award

President of the world football governing body, FIFA, Gianni Infantino, has commended former NFF President and FIFA Council Member, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, on the National honour bestowed on him by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Infantino wrote: “By means of this letter, I have the great pleasure to express to you my warmest congratulations on the award of the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) bestowed to you by His Excellency Mr Muhammadu Buhari.

community, particularly within the FIFA Council.

“Your human qualities and skills, not to mention your remarkable contribution to the development of Nigerian, African and world football, deserve our admiration. Congratulating you once again for this important distinction, I look forward to seeing you again soon,” observed the FIFA chief.

Manchester City players celebrating adding the Manchester the FA Cup trophy to the Premier League title they FA Cup trophy to the Premier title they won yesterday Now, they are just one game won ...yesterday. Now, are just one game away to matching United’s 1999 feat away to United’s 1999 feat

Rivers Utd Lead Match-day 1 of NPFL Super 6 Playoffs in Lagos

Duro Ikhazuagbe

named Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

15 goals for the season.

“This is a well-deserved honour that rewards your passion and exemplary commitment at the service of the international football Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will be aiming for a semi-final ticket at the FIFA U20 World Cup finals for the first time since 2005, when they go up against the South Koreans today at the Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades in the City of Santiago Del Estero in Argentina.

The game is scheduled to start at 2.30pmArgentina time (6.30pmNigeria time).

Yesterday evening, Israel held on valiantly to eliminate five-time champions Brazil 3-2 after extra time. They became the first team to reach the last four.

In a goodwill message to the team yesterday, President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau implored Flying Eagles to be focused and disciplined as they go all out for a semi-final ticket against South Korea.

Gusau commended the team for their resilience and victory against host-nation Argentina in the Round of 16 tie on Wednesday and urged them to put up even a stronger performance against the nifty Asians on Sunday (today)”

“Gentlemen, I want to use this medium to commend and

Pinnick, former Sports Minister, Sunday Dare and Nigeria and Napoli forward, Victor Osimhen were the three sports personalities amongst the eminent Nigerians honoured with national award on the eve of President Buhari’s departure from State House in Abuja. congratulate you for the hardfought win against Argentina. What you demonstrated was the true Nigeria spirit and I urge you to replicate the same against South Korea tomorrow.

Defending champions Rivers United FC shot to the top of the NPFL Championships Super 6 playoffs on three points yesterday.

A questionable call against Sunshine Stars gifted the Pride of Rivers a penalty kick in the second half with Chidiebube Duru converting it in the 63rd minute.

U20 WORLD CUP: Flying Eagles Battle South Korea for S’final Ticket

“The game on Sunday is crucial and I believe you can do it for yourselves, your families and above all our dear nation, Nigeria. Nigerians are happy with your performance over there and are solidly behind you.”

In the first fixture of the Match-day One, Remo Stars came from behind twice to hold eight-time Nigeria league champions Enyimba to a pulsating 2-2 draw inside the Onikan waterfront stadium

After a goalless first half, Enyimba went ahead in the 60th minute through Adiele Eriugo. Remo Stars fought back and brought in a former star of the Nigerian league, Junior Lokosa who brought more bite into the Remo Stars’ offensive. He soon levelled up for Remo in the 77th minute.

But three minutes later, Enyimba were awarded a questionable penalty kick as Chijioke Mbaoma was fouled at the edge of the penalty box.

Emeka Obioma took the resultant kick, and he calmly converted the ball in the 78th minute as he took his tally to

Enyimba apparently feeling the job was done began to wind down the clock. But their hearts were broken when Remo Stars’ captain tapped in from close range from a free kick.

In the third match to conclude the first day of the playoffs, 18-match unbeaten run of Bendel Insurance was stretched by another goalless draw result against Lobi Stars.

After today’s rest day for the six clubs involved in the playoffs, action will return on Monday with Lobi Stars taking on Enyimba at 2pm while Rivers United will attempt to consolidate against Remo Stars

at 4pm. Bendel Insurance and Sunshine Stars will conclude the second day fixtures.

RESULTS

Enyimba 2-2 Remo Stars

Sunshine 0-1 Rivers Utd B’Insurance 0-0 Lobi Stars

Monday

Lobi Stars v Enyimba (2pm) Rivers Utd v Remo Stars (4pm)

B’Insurance v Sunshine (6pm)

Oshoala’s Barcelona Femenino Win Champions League

Asisat Oshoala and Barcelona

Femenino won a second UEFA Women’s Champions League title after coming from behind in stunning fashion to beat German giants Wolfsburg yesterday evening.

The Spanish champions trailed 2-0 at half-time before Patri Guijarro’s two-minute

brace pulled them level.

Spurred on by their instant response in the second half, Barcelona piled on the pressure and were eventually rewarded.

Fridolina Rolfo got the winner, thumping it into the roof of the net from close range with 20 minutes left.

After losing their crown

to Lyon in last year’s final,Barcelona travelled to Eindhoven as favourites against a very strong Wolfsburg side, who were seeking a third European trophy in 10 years. Wolfsburg got off to the perfect start when competition top scorer Ewa Pajor robbed the ball off England defender

Lucy Bronze, returning after knee surgery in April, to drive in the opener.

Germany international Alexandra Popp was then set-up by Pajor with a teasing cross - the striker making no mistake as she headed in Wolfsburg’s second.

Bukayo Saka Visits Governor

Sanwo-Olu in Lagos

Arsenal winger, Bukayo Saka who has been on visit to Lagos was yesterday received at the Lagos House in Marina by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Saka surfaced first in the Somolu area of Lagos on Thursday and has been to other places with Nigerians receiving him with enthusiasm. Born in Ealing, Greater London to Nigerian parents – Yomi and Adenike Saka – the 22-year-old elected to play for England. He massively

aided Arsenal to a title challenge in the just ended season in England.

Governor Sanwo-Olu excitedly wrote on his Twitter handle yesterday: “Exciting day at the State House, Marina today as I had the pleasure of hosting my favorite @Arsenal player, Star Boy Bukayo Saka. @ BukayoSaka87.

Saka presented his signed Arsenal number 7 jersey to Sanwo-Olu, while he got an effigy of Eyo masquerade from the governor.

“I also enjoyed receiving my own signed Saka Jersey.

“As a proud #Gunner, I’m incredibly proud of their inspiring run in the Premier League with such a young team.

“Their determination has motivated many and shown us the power of youth. We’re committed to bringing that same spirit to grassroots football in Lagos, “concludes Governor Sanwo-Olu on the social media.

Bukayo Saka (left) with Gov Sanwo-Olu at the State House in Marina... yesterday

PDP to Akeredolu

“In 2010, when then President Yar’Adua was incapacitated due to ill-health, Akeredolu was one of the most vociferous voices, calling for his resignation and allowing the then vice president to take over” – The PDP in Ondo State asking Governor Akeredolu to resign if he could no longer perform his functions.

SIMON KOLAWOLE

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com,

Why (Most) Nigerians Oppose Subsidy Removal

On Monday afternoon, my friend in Benin, Edo state, went to his father’s house for some daddy-and-son time. His fuel gauge was on red, but because the next gas station was on the other side of the road and he would need to make a long turn, he decided to buy petrol on his way back. That was what his driver suggested anyway. After watching President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inauguration and listening to his speech, he headed back home. But the world had changed within the twinkle of an eye. He ran into a sudden traffic caused by fuel queues. That was when he remembered Tinubu’s statement of “subsidy is gone!” which was instantly greeted with petrol “scarcity” all over Nigeria.

With all of Tinubu’s experience in government, I thought a presidential pronouncement on such a very sensitive and emotive topic could have been better managed. There are people who have built their careers on opposing the removal of petrol subsidy and you do not expect them to take it lying down. Policy communication is as important as the policy itself. Many good policies have suffered miserable death in the slaughter room of populist activism partly because of the way they were communicated or marketed. One mistake many policy makers make over and again is to assume that if a

Tinubu

policy makes sense and has benefits, it would be readily embraced. It doesn’t work like that.

I do not suggest that if a good policy is well marketed, there would be no resistance. It also doesn’t work like that. However, there are people who genuinely want to understand

WAZIRI ADIO POSTSCRIPT

the idea to educate your people, especially the new generation of Nigerians some of who believe that the UN will take over a country if a public protest goes on for three weeks or that INEC can only announce election results between 8am and 4pm.

a policy and its promises. There are people who want to be persuaded so that they too can persuade others. In reality, there will always be resistance to the removal of petrol subsidy in Nigeria, no matter how well you communicate it. But you have a duty to sell

I must also admit that there is no best time to remove petrol subsidy. No matter when you remove it — morning, noon or night; January, May or October; Sunday, Wednesday or Friday — there will always be some resistance. You do not withdraw a 50-year-old benefit that Nigerians have taken as a birth right and expect them to give you a standing ovation. It is our entitlement, as far as we can see. Since we hit oil boom in 1973, we have been hooked on subsidies, most of which we have got rid of — like giving meal tickets to university students and even paying for their laundry. We have successfully ended subsidies on diesel, gas and kerosene. But petrol is the most stubborn of them all. Why do most Nigerians oppose the removal of petrol subsidy? At this point, I would like to speak for myself. I was a fierce advocate of petrol subsidy — until shortly before President Goodluck Jonathan pulled the trigger in 2012. By then, I had become more receptive to the economic case. I used to be nauseated with the argument that removing subsidy would

Continued on page 46

Notes on Tinubu’s First Week as President

On Monday, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu stepped into the biggest dream of his life. He assumed office as the President of Nigeria, a dream he had desired for at least the past 16 years. As expected, it has been a whirl of a week for him: inauguration ceremonies, speeches, meetings, first appointments etc. It is still early days for a categorical projection into what his presidency may look like. But there are enough hints from both the surefootedness and the tentativeness of the first week for a qualified sketch and some initial comments.

One thing that came out clearly in Week One is that President Tinubu is ready to make some bold and necessary decisions on the economy. From Eagle Square, he took on the petrol subsidy thing around Nigeria’s neck. He went outside his prepared speech to declare that ‘petrol subsidy is gone.’ There were some unfortunate walk-back and confusion around this critical takeaway of his inaugural speech, but it didn’t look like a slip. My sense is that it was a message that he wanted to pass across clearly from Day One, hence his decision to adlib.

Maybe many did not pay adequate attention but he had, during the campaigns, given enough

notice about his determination to end the ruinous and deficient yet politically sensitive petrol subsidy scheme. But doing it during the inauguration ceremony takes some pluck. That, however, may be the easiest part. The real challenge is how Tinubu confronts the difficult fallouts.

One, there will be pushbacks from the labour unions and others, including his political opponents. Will he hold steady or will he wilt under pressure, concede grounds as others before him had done, and also just kick the can down the road? Two, what is his strategy to take this beyond just price adjustment to full, proper and competitive deregulation of the downstream sector? And three, what and where is his plan for relieving the expected pains from petrol subsidy removal and for repurposing some or all of the savings/gains?

As others have argued, there is no best way to remove the ineffective and ruinous petrol subsidy. It needs to go to give the different tiers of government more fiscal headspace and to prevent a bigger fiscal mess for the country. And the earlier a new administration confronts it, the better for that administration and for the country. However, no one should be under any illusions that petrol subsidy removal will not be resisted for all sorts of reasons including legitimate and dodgy ones. Now that Mr. Tinubu

has staked his slim political capital on removing the politically combustible petrol subsidy, he needs to ensure that it is a battle he can win. Going to battle early is good. But the outcome of the first battle has larger implications.

In his inaugural address, Tinubu also came out strongly that there must be a unified exchange rate, that investors will be able to repatriate their funds more easily, and that anti-investment laws and policies, including multiple taxations, will be reviewed. He also touched on the need to reduce interest rates, sustain investment in infrastructure and improve electricity supply. These are good statements of intentions, which the stock market took positive note of. There was a N1.5 trillion bounce on the bourse the following market day.

While the president went off track on interest rates (it is not what you do by presidential fiat), he is right on the money on multiple exchange rates and restrictions on repatriation of profits. Having multiple exchange rates creates a fertile ground for arbitrage, and this has, unsurprisingly, been exploited by the few who have access to subsidised foreign exchange. It needs to go. However, it is important to bear in mind that having a unified and adjusted exchange rate and promising investors a more liberal and friendlier investment climate will not be the

magic bullet for addressing the more structural issue of low and decreasing foreign exchange inflows.

Yes, adjusted exchange rate and improved investor confidence are needed to boost forex inflows. But we need more than that. We need to earn more foreign exchange by addressing oil theft, increasing our oil production and the share of federation oil dedicated to export, and significantly increasing non-oil exports. Beyond forex, the new government needs to roll out a comprehensive and coordinated plan to put millions of our people to work, especially in labour intensive and export geared sectors.

From his statements in the first week, Tinubu comes across as a president who is likely to take the economy more seriously. Well, he doesn’t have a choice, given where Nigeria’s economy is at the moment, and how central the state of the economy is to everything else from national security to individual welfare. The economy is an area Tinubu should be comfortable in because of his background. But he needs to continue to bat on the side of pragmatism and ensure that his pro-business bias does not further enable state capture and limited competition.

Continued on page 46